Summer Vegan Kale & Arugula Citrus Salad 

Ingredients (serves 2–3)

Salad:

  • 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 1 orange, peeled and segmented
  • 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
  • ¼ cup pomegranate seeds (optional, adds sweetness & color)
  • ¼ cup toasted almonds or walnuts
  • ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)

Dressing:

  • 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh grapefruit juice
  • 1 tsp maple syrup or agave (optional, to balance tartness)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Massage the kale: Place chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with a pinch of salt and ½ tsp olive oil. Massage 1–2 minutes until softened.
  2. Prepare the dressing: Whisk together orange juice, grapefruit juice, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Assemble salad: Add arugula to the kale, then gently fold in orange and grapefruit segments, pomegranate seeds, red onion, and toasted nuts.
  4. Dress the salad: Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Serve immediately or chill for 10 minutes for flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations:

  • Add toasted chickpeas or edamame for extra protein.
  • Sprinkle hemp seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch and omega-3 boost.
  • For a sweeter flavor, drizzle extra maple syrup over citrus segments before adding.
  • Use blood oranges or pink grapefruit for a colorful presentation.

Approximate Nutrition (per serving)

  • Calories: 190 kcal
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Carbs: 18 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Sugar: 10 g