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The best damn kale salad

This is my basic recipe for raw kale salad involving 4 ingredients and less than 10 minutes. Check out the variations in the notes for optional toppings.
I first discovered the massaging technique in 2011 thanks to this recipe: http://happyfoody.com/2008/02/12/raw-kale-avocado-salad. I've made a few minor tweaks, but you can refer to this recipe for further inspiration.
Prep Time10 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: all
Keyword: kale, main, raw, salad

Equipment

  • Large salad bowl.

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch kale (any variety)
  • 1-2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1/4 - 1/2 tsp coarse sea salt (not table salt)
  • 1/2 lemon or lime (juiced)

Instructions

Basic recipe

  • Thoroughly wash and dry the kale, then separate the tough stalks from the leaves. I do this by tearing the leaves off. Keep the stalks for another recipe or to use in homemade stock.
  • Chop the leaves into bite size pieces, then place in a large bowl.
  • Drizzle with olive oil and sea salt.
  • Get your hands in there and massage the leaves for about a minute. By the way, this is great to do with kids!
    The leaves with reduce (almost by half) when you massage them. You'll notice the kale starting to glisten and break down, and your fingers might even look a little green (due to the chlorophyll). This means it’s working!
  • Now, add the lemon or lime juice and continue to toss gently with your hands.
  • Taste it, and add a bit more salt or lemon/lime juice. It should taste pretty good.
  • Add optional toppings (listed below), or eat immediately (I dare you to stop)! This kale salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.

Notes

Start with 1/4 tsp sea salt and add more if needed (for flavor).
If you're adding a lot of toppings, you may need more lemon/lime/other citrus juice for acidity (otherwise the kale can taste a little flat). 

Optional topping ideas:

  • 1/2 cup blueberries + 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds + 1/2 cup walnuts (or other nuts)
  • 1/2 cup cooked quinoa + 1 cup cooked chickpeas + 1 cup grated carrots
  • 1 chopped mango + 1 cup cooked beetroot + 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (or other seeds)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes + 1/2 avocado (mash this in with your hands) + 1/4 cup chopped almonds.
  • 1/2 cup caramelized onions + 1 cup roasted butternut squash + 1/4 cup chopped dates