Massaged Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette and Feta

This colorful side dish is extra fabulous thanks to a quirky culinary technique - the kale massage. Massaging kale softens and sweetens the leaves and brings out a more vibrant green color. Plus, it's fun... The combination of kale and crunchy Romaine in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette is spectacular. And ready in less than 10 minutes.

The flavor of this salad is extreme, especially when you consider how short the ingredient list is. The quickly-prepared dressing is a tangy blend of balsamic vinegar, olive oil and Dijon mustard. Super simple. Then, once the kale is massaged, the salad is finished with chunks of salty feta cheese.

Want to add protein? Great idea. Add grilled or roasted chicken, steak, pork, tofu, or shrimp when you add the feta.

Massaged Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette and Feta

2 bunches fresh kale
4 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and ground black pepper
1 cup chopped Romaine lettuce
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Wash the kale and pat dry. Using a sharp knife, remove the thick stems from the center of the leaves. Chop the leaves into 2-inch pieces.
In a large bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, mustard, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Add the kale to the vinaigrette and, using your hands, massage and coat the leaves with the dressing for 2 to 5 minutes, until the leaves are tender and bright green.
Add the Romaine and toss to coat. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and top with the feta.

Serves 4