Name: Winter Happiness Salad: A Colorful Vegan Bowl of Joy
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Lacinato Kale (Massage to ensure tenderness.); 1 cup Quinoa (Prepare in advance.); 1 can Chickpeas (Rinsed and drained.); 1 medium Apple (Diced; use crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.); 1/2 cup Currants (Raisins can be a substitute.); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Chopped; optional.); 2 medium Scallions (Sliced.); 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice (Essential for flavor.); 1 medium Lemon Zest (From one lemon.); 1 teaspoon Toasted Fennel Seeds (Ground.); 1 teaspoon Coriander Seeds (Ground.); 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Forms the base of the vinaigrette.)

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A burst of color and nourishment greets you with every spoonful of my Winter Happiness Salad! This kale quinoa delight combines earthy greens, nutty quinoa, and juicy apples, crafting a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is satisfying. With just the right zing from a zesty vinaigrette, this healthy salad is a quick prep solution for busy weekdays and a crowd-pleaser at winter potlucks. Every bite not only offers a protein-packed meal but also supports your wellness goals with fiber-rich ingredients. Curious how a simple mix of ingredients can bring joy to your table? Let’s dive into this winter treat!

Why is this salad the winter favorite?

Nutrient-Dense Delight: Each bite of this Winter Happiness Salad delivers essential vitamins and minerals, making it a perfect option for nourishing your body during colder months.

Flexibility: With ingredient variations, you can customize it to your taste—whether you’re swapping chickpeas for black beans or adding pomegranate for a burst of sweetness.

Quick Meal Prep: This salad is a dream for meal preppers! Whip it up ahead of time and enjoy up to four days of healthy lunches or dinners with minimal effort.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress your family and friends at your next gathering with a visually stunning dish that resonates with both meat-lovers and vegans alike.

Dressing Perfection: The zesty vinaigrette is the cherry on top, elevating the fresh flavors while keeping the salad lively and refreshing.

Pair this salad with a side of Cucumber Strawberry Salad for an added burst of freshness!

Winter Happiness Salad Ingredients

• Get ready to embrace winter with these healthy, colorful ingredients!

For the Salad

Lacinato Kale – A hearty base with an earthy flavor; massage it well to ensure tenderness.
Quinoa – Offers complete protein and a nutty bite; prep it in advance for a quicker salad assembly.
Chickpeas – Adds heartiness and protein; opt for canned or cooked dry for convenience.
Apples – Bring in a natural sweetness and crunch; choose crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
Currants – Introduce chewy texture and sweetness; raisins can be a perfect substitute.
Fresh Parsley – Brightens flavors and offers freshness; feel free to replace it with cilantro or omit it if you prefer.
Scallions – Provide a mild onion flavor; consider red onion for a bolder taste.

For the Dressing

Lemon Juice & Zest – Brightens the salad with acidity; essential for elevating flavors in this Winter Happiness Salad.
Toasted Fennel Seeds & Coriander Seeds – Add depth and intrigue; can substitute with cumin if needed.
Olive Oil – Forms the base of the vinaigrette; extra virgin will enhance the dressing’s richness.

This vibrant combination of ingredients ensures that you create a comforting yet nutritious Winter Happiness Salad that’s perfect for any occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Winter Happiness Salad

Step 1: Prepare Quinoa
Begin by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all the water and is fluffy. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Make Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice, the zest of one lemon, and 1 teaspoon each of toasted fennel seeds and coriander seeds. Gradually drizzle in ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing emulsifies and thickens slightly. This zesty vinaigrette will elevate the flavors of your Winter Happiness Salad beautifully.

Step 3: Toast Spices
To enhance the flavors, toast 1 teaspoon each of fennel and coriander seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently until fragrant. Allow them to cool slightly before grinding into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. This step adds depth to your salad dressing.

Step 4: Tenderize Kale
Take 4 cups of Lacinato kale and rinse it thoroughly. Pat it dry with a kitchen towel, then remove the tough stems and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, add a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt, then massage the leaves gently for about 2-3 minutes until they become tender and darker in color. This process enhances the kale’s texture for your Winter Happiness Salad.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the tender kale, cooled quinoa, 1 can of rinsed and drained chickpeas, 1 diced apple, a handful of currants, chopped fresh parsley, and sliced scallions. Gently toss all the ingredients together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully without bruising the delicate kale.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste your Winter Happiness Salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add a little more olive oil, lemon juice, or salt to suit your preferences. For optimal flavor, let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes, allowing the dressing to infuse the ingredients and enhance the overall experience.

Winter Happiness Salad Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and explore delightful twists on this festive salad!

Dairy-Free: Swap feta cheese for nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
A sprinkle of nutritional yeast enhances the richness while keeping it plant-based!
Nutty Crunch: Add toasted almonds or walnuts for an extra dimension of crunch.
The nutty flavor pairs perfectly with the crispy apples, creating a satisfying texture contrast.
Extra Protein: Substitute chickpeas with roasted tofu for a protein-packed boost.
The crispy, seasoned tofu will add more substance and a hearty bite to your dish while keeping it plant-based.
Seasonal Fruits: Try adding pomegranate seeds or orange segments for an extra burst of sweetness.
These juicy additions not only brighten the salad but also bring a delightful tangy flavor.
Low-Carb: Swap quinoa for cauliflower rice or finely chopped broccoli for a lower-carb option.
This option maintains the freshness while giving you a lighter side to enjoy alongside winter mains.
Asian-Inspired: Toss in sesame oil and ginger for a delightful Asian twist on the dressing.
These flavors will open up a new culinary experience, complementing the kale beautifully!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for a spicy twist.
This subtle heat will elevate your Winter Happiness Salad and warm you from the inside out.
Herb Variations: Swap parsley for fresh basil or mint depending on your preference.
Each herb brings a unique aroma and flavor profile, allowing you to personalize your salad further.

For more delicious ideas, try it alongside a refreshing Cucumber Strawberry Salad or a hearty Tuna Noodle Salad for a complete meal!

What to Serve with Winter Happiness Salad?

A vibrant kale quinoa salad deserves equally delightful companions to create a meal bursting with flavor and freshness.

Garlic Roasted Chickpeas: These crunchy bites add an extra protein punch and pair nicely with the salad’s textures. A sprinkle of garlic powder makes them irresistible!
Creamy Avocado Toast: The richness of avocado elevates any meal. Spread it on whole grain bread and top it with chili flakes for a spicy kick that beautifully complements the salad.
Lemon Herb Grilled Tofu: Marinated and grilled tofu adds a satisfying protein source while echoing the salad’s zesty tones. It’s a fantastic vegan alternative to traditional meats.
Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes deliver a comforting warmth and slight sweetness that melds with the fresh flavors of the salad. Their tender texture is a perfect contrast to the kale and quinoa.
Cucumber Tomato Salad: Keep it light and refreshing! This salad’s crispness enhances your meal, offering a cleanse for the palate between bites.
Sparkling Water with Mint: For a hydrating drink option, serve sparkling water infused with fresh mint leaves. It’s a refreshing contrast to the hearty components, enhancing your dining experience.
Vegan Friendly Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with a vegan garlic spread complements the salad while offering a delightful crunch. It’s a heart-warming addition everyone will enjoy!
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: If you’re in the mood for dessert, a rich chocolate mousse made with avocados is a delightful finish to this wholesome meal. It’s indulgent yet healthy!

Mix and match these suggestions to create a well-rounded feast that will impress and satisfy your loved ones!

Expert Tips for Winter Happiness Salad

Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, organic ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor and nutritional value in your Winter Happiness Salad.
Pre-Cook Quinoa: Cooking quinoa in advance not only saves time but ensures that it cools properly for a fluffy texture in the salad.
Massage the Kale: Don’t skip massaging the kale! This crucial step breaks down its toughness, leaving you with tender greens that enhance your salad’s overall appeal.
Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the vinaigrette’s acidity. If it’s too tangy, add a touch of maple syrup or agave syrup for a balanced sweetness in your Winter Happiness Salad.
Chill for Flavor: Let the salad sit for about 30 minutes after mixing to allow the flavors to meld beautifully—it’s a game-changer for taste!

Make Ahead Options

These Winter Happiness Salad ingredients can be prepared ahead of time, making your meal prep a breeze! You can cook and cool the quinoa up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The kale can also be tenderized and massaged with olive oil and salt before serving, preventing it from wilting, and can be stored for up to 24 hours. Keep the vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to toss everything together to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, simply combine all the ingredients, including the dressing, and you’ll have a wholesome dish that tastes just as delicious as if it were freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Winter Happiness Salad

Fridge: Keep your Winter Happiness Salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To prevent the kale from wilting, add the vinaigrette just before serving.

Make Ahead: You can prepare the salad components in advance—quinoa, kale, and other ingredients—storing them separately. Assemble the salad with the dressing on the day you plan to serve it for the best freshness.

Freezer: If you’d like to freeze leftovers, consider omitting the dressing and freezing individual portions of the salad for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving and then add fresh dressing.

Reheating: While this salad is best enjoyed cold, if you have leftover quinoa, reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stove before mixing into the salad again.

Winter Happiness Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best kale for the Winter Happiness Salad?
Absolutely! Look for Lacinato kale with firm, deep green leaves. Avoid any that show dark spots or yellowing. Curly kale is an alternative, but remember to massage it well for tenderness.

How should I store the Winter Happiness Salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To prevent wilting, add the vinaigrette just before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze the Winter Happiness Salad?
Yes, you can! I recommend omitting the dressing before freezing individual portions for up to 2 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight, and then add fresh dressing just before enjoying.

What if I have leftover quinoa?
No problem at all! If you have leftover quinoa, feel free to reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before mixing it into your salad again. This will restore its fluffiness!

Are there any common allergies to consider for this salad?
Very much so! This Winter Happiness Salad is naturally vegan and gluten-free, but if you or your guests have nut allergies, avoid adding nuts as toppings. Always check your ingredients, especially chickpeas, in case of cross-contamination.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad components—quinoa, kale, and other ingredients—up to 3 days ahead. Store them separately, and mix them with the dressing on the day of serving to maintain freshness and flavor.