KALE DETOX SALAD W/ PESTO

Looking for a healthy and delicious way to detox your body? This Kale Detox Salad with Pesto is the perfect solution! Packed with nutrient-rich kale, fresh vegetables, and a zesty pesto dressing, this salad is not only satisfying but also promotes overall well-being. Get ready to indulge in a vibrant and flavorful dish that will leave you feeling energized and rejuvenated.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 2 as a main dish, 3–4 as a side

INGREDIENTS

Carrot Top Pesto

  • Tops from 1 bunch of carrots
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon

Roasted Vegetables

  • 1 lb fingerling potatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 3–4 large purple carrots, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • Generous drizzle of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of dried thyme

Salad Base

  • A few handfuls of lacinato kale, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • Sliced jalapeño (optional)
  • Sesame seeds (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Prep the Vegetables: Wash and dry the carrots and potatoes. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
  • Season and Roast: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, and chickpeas with olive oil, salt, pepper, parsley, basil, garlic powder, and thyme. Spread the mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 45–50 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool.
  • Make the Pesto: While the vegetables roast, combine the carrot tops, olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice in a food processor. Blend until smooth but slightly textured.
  • Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, massage the pesto into the sliced lacinato kale until evenly coated. Add the roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and cooked brown rice. Mix until everything is well combined.
  • Serve: Divide the salad into bowls and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced jalapeño, if desired.

NOTES

  • If lacinato kale isn’t available, substitute with another sturdy green like chard, curly kale, or collard greens.