Revitalize your body with this Crunchy Detox Salad
Packed with vibrant, nutrient-dense veggies and a zesty, tangy dressing, this salad is designed to help cleanse your system while keeping you energized. The combination of crisp kale, sweet apples, crunchy seeds, and a splash of citrus makes every bite refreshing and satisfying. Perfect as a light lunch, a colorful side dish, or a post-weekend reset, this salad is as delicious as it is nourishing.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking needed!)
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
2 cups kale, chopped (massaged with a bit of olive oil for tenderness)
1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup carrots, julienned or shredded
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup almonds or walnuts, chopped (for crunch)
1/4 cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
1 apple, thinly sliced or diced (adds sweetness)
1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup green onions or red onions, finely sliced
1/2 cup sprouts (optional, like alfalfa or broccoli sprouts)
For the Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (great for detox)
1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional for a hint of sweetness)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the veggies: Wash, chop, and prepare all your vegetables and fruits. If using kale, massage it with a tiny bit of olive oil for 2-3 minutes until it softens.
Mix the salad: In a large bowl, combine the kale, cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, apple, and onions. Add the nuts, seeds, and sprouts on top.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, honey, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Toss and serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Optional toppings: Add avocado slices, a sprinkle of feta cheese, or even some chickpeas for extra protein.
Tips for the Perfect Crunchy Detox Salad:
Massage the Kale: Don’t skip this step! Massaging kale with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice helps break down its toughness, making it more tender and flavorful.
Add Protein for a Complete Meal: Toss in grilled chicken, tofu, chickpeas, or quinoa to turn this salad into a hearty, protein-packed meal.
Use Fresh, Crisp Veggies: For maximum crunch, use the freshest veggies you can find. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to prepare the salad.
Prep Ahead: Chop all the veggies in advance and store them separately in airtight containers. Add the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.
Customize Your Crunch: Mix up the nuts and seeds! Try almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, or even roasted chickpeas for varied textures.
Sweetness Balance: If the salad feels too tangy, add a little more diced apple, dried cranberries, or a drizzle of honey to balance the flavors.
Let It Marinate: After tossing with the dressing, let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld while keeping the veggies crunchy.
Brighten It Up: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or mint for a refreshing burst of flavor.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Calories: 250-300 kcal
Protein: 6-8g
Fat: 18-20g (from olive oil, nuts, and seeds)
Saturated Fat: 2-3g
Carbohydrates: 20-24g
Fiber: 6-8g
Sugars: 8-10g (from apples, carrots, and dressing)
Cholesterol: 0mg (unless adding cheese or animal proteins)
Sodium: 150-200mg (depends on added salt and mustard)