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Purple Kale Millet Salad Recipe

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4 from 138 reviews

A vibrant and nutritious Purple Kale Millet Salad combining the hearty texture of pearl millet with nutrient-packed purple kale, refreshing cucumber, sweet red grapes, and protein-rich chickpeas. Tossed in a naturally sweet and tangy dressing made from Medjool dates, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and fresh citrus juice, this salad offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures for a healthy, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Salad

  • ½ cup pearl millet
  • 1½ cups water
  • 6 stalks purple kale
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium cucumber
  • 1 can chickpeas (400g), drained and rinsed
  • ½ cup red grapes, halved

Salad Dressing

  • 3 Medjool dates, pitted
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • ½ lemon, juiced
  • ½ orange, juiced
  • 1 garlic clove, minced

Instructions

  1. Cook the millet: Rinse the pearl millet thoroughly under cold water to remove any dust. In a medium saucepan, combine the millet with 1½ cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-18 minutes until the millet is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Allow to cool.
  2. Prepare the kale: While millet is cooking, wash the purple kale stalks. Remove the thick stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Massage the kale gently with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to soften it and enhance flavor.
  3. Prepare the dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine the pitted Medjool dates, 2 tablespoons olive oil, red wine vinegar, juice of half lemon and half orange, and the minced garlic clove. Blend until smooth, forming a sweet and tangy dressing.
  4. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled millet, massaged kale, rinsed chickpeas, chopped cucumber, and halved red grapes. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Serve: Let the salad rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a wholesome lunch or side dish.

Notes

  • Rinsing millet before cooking removes any bitterness and dust.
  • Massaging kale makes it tender and easier to digest.
  • Medjool dates add natural sweetness to balance the tangy citrus dressing.
  • This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but fresh is best.
  • For extra protein, you can add grilled chicken or tofu.