Kale + Shredded Brussels Sprouts Quinoa Salad

A Busy Mom's Secret to a Delicious and Healthy Lunch

Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and after-school activities, finding time for anything – let alone a healthy, satisfying meal – can feel impossible. But I've discovered a secret weapon that's transformed my lunchtime routine: this incredibly quick and easy Kale + Shredded Brussels Sprouts Quinoa Salad. It’s not only packed with nutrients, but it's also incredibly flavorful and takes just minutes to prepare. Forget those sad desk lunches; this salad is a game-changer.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No complicated techniques or obscure ingredients are required. I often prep the vegetables the night before, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, making my lunchtime routine even faster. The vibrant colours alone make it an appealing dish, and it's so satisfying I find myself looking forward to lunch each day. The quinoa adds a lovely nutty texture and hearty protein boost, the Brussels sprouts provide a delicate sweetness, and the kale offers a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals. Plus, the pomegranate seeds offer a lovely pop of colour and juicy burst of flavor. It is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory. And the best part? It's incredibly customizable. Add your favourite nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to match your taste. I often swap out the pomegranate for cranberries during the winter months.

Why this salad is my go-to:

• Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or hectic workdays.
• Healthy and nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
• Delicious and satisfying: The perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients to create your own unique version.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prep the components ahead of time for a super-speedy lunch.

I often double or triple this recipe at the beginning of the week and store it in individual containers. This guarantees I have a healthy and delicious lunch ready to grab and go each day. No more settling for processed lunches or rushing to a fast-food joint! This salad is my secret weapon for staying healthy, energized, and focused throughout my busy days. This recipe is more than just a salad; it's a time-saver, a health boost, and a delicious way to nourish myself amidst the chaos of modern life. It's a small act of self-care that makes a big difference in my overall wellbeing and productivity. Try it – you won't be disappointed!

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy it as a standalone lunch.
• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal.
• Serve it as a side dish alongside roasted vegetables or a hearty soup.

I encourage you to experiment with this recipe and make it your own. Add your favorite ingredients, and create the perfect lunch salad that suits your tastes and dietary needs. Let me know in the comments how you customize it! Happy cooking!

Step-by-step

• Using a mandolin slicer or a sharp knife, shred the brussels sprouts. Place them in a large bowl and add the kale. Set aside.
• Add quinoa and walnuts to a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 8 - 12 minutes until the quinoa is crispy and the walnuts are golden brown, stirring around every few minutes so they don't burn. (I found that covering the skillet helped)
• While the quinoa and walnuts are toasting, whisk together the oil, lemon juice, vinegar and honey. Season with salt and pepper, taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Once the quinoa and walnuts have cooled slightly, add them, along with the pomegranate seeds, to the bowl with the vegetables and toss to combine.
• Add dressing and toss to coat.
• Serve immediately or allow to sit in fridge for no more than 1 hour.