Heart-Healthy Kale Salad with Beluga Lentils: Lupus-Friendly Recipe
This vibrant, hearty salad is perfect for those managing lupus. Packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients, it’s designed to support immune health and promote overall wellness. Featuring beluga lentils, kale, and a variety of fresh herbs, this meal is not only delicious but also full of antioxidants and healthy fats—ideal for reducing inflammation.
Why This Salad Is Perfect for Lupus Management
A whole food, plant-based approach can significantly help reduce inflammation and support immune system function, making this salad an excellent choice for those managing lupus. It’s packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients that contribute to better health.
Ingredients For Salad:
¾ cup Beluga Lentils, dry
1 bunch Kale, chopped
1 tbsp Olive Oil
⅛ tsp Salt
½ small Radicchio, sliced thinly
¼ cup Kalamata Olives, chopped
¼ cup Red Onion, finely diced
⅓ cup Feta, crumbled (omit if avoiding dairy)
¼ cup Roasted Almonds or Pistachios, chopped
⅓ cup Fresh Mint, chopped
⅓ cup Italian Parsley, chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
Ingredients For Dressing:
¼ cup Red Wine Vinegar
3 tbsp Olive Oil
Juice of 1 Lemon
1 tbsp Maple Syrup
1 tsp Dried Oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh)
¼ tsp Salt
How to Make Your Kale & Beluga Lentil Salad:
Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add lentils and cook for about 20 minutes or until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water.
In a large salad bowl, add kale, olive oil, and salt. Massage the kale for 1-2 minutes until it softens and wilts slightly.
Add radicchio, olives, red onion, feta, nuts, mint, parsley, and lemon zest to the bowl.
In a small mason jar, combine all the dressing ingredients. Shake well and drizzle over the salad. Toss to combine and enjoy!
Meal Prep Tips
This salad is perfect for meal prep as it holds up well in the fridge for several days. You can enjoy it throughout the week without worrying about it getting soggy or wilted.
The recipes used by Lupus Canada have been reviewed and approved by a Registered Holistic Nutritionist.