Pomegranate Kale Wild Rice Salad (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Salad

01 - 1 cup uncooked wild rice
02 - 3 cups chopped kale, stems removed
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil (for massaging kale)
04 - 3/4 cup pomegranate seeds
05 - 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
06 - 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
07 - 1/4 cup chopped green onions (or red onion for a bolder flavor)
08 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ For the Dressing

09 - 3 tablespoons olive oil
10 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
11 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
12 - 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
13 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
14 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Cook the wild rice according to package instructions (usually simmered in water for 40–45 minutes). Drain any excess water and let it cool.
02 - Place the kale in a large bowl, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and massage it with your hands for 1–2 minutes until it softens and darkens in color.
03 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
04 - Once the rice is cooled, add it to the bowl with the kale. Add pomegranate seeds, feta, walnuts, and green onions.
05 - Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
06 - Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chill for later.

# Notes:

01 - This salad holds up well in the fridge for 2–3 days, making it great for meal prep.
02 - To make it vegan, use a plant-based feta or skip the cheese.
03 - Add roasted sweet potatoes or chickpeas to make it heartier.