Trying out the Keto diet? Or maybe just trying to be a little more conscious of your carbs?
Dark leafy greens are not only highly alkalizing (and therefore ideal for promoting a healthy internal pH), they are the most nutrient-dense type of vegetable. They also fall on the lower end of the spectrum when it comes to carbohydrates- perfect for keto!
Leafy Greens & Keto
Each leafy green vegetable has its own unique nutrient profile, so the greater the diversity of greens you get into your diet, the better!
Although I call this a kale salad (because kale is life), this recipe uses equal parts spinach. You can also use other low-carb leafy greens like collard greens and/or Swiss chard. Experiment and tweak this recipe however you prefer. I’m just weirdly obsessed with kale, so naturally, I made it the star of this recipe.
Bear in mind, you don't need to be on a ketogenic diet to enjoy this recipe!
Simple Keto Kale Salad
NET CARBS: 9.5 g
TOTAL CARBS: 14.5 g
TOTAL FAT: 25.2 g
PROTEIN: 7.4 g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup kale (5.4 g net carbs)
- 1 cup spinach (0.4 net carbs)
- Fresh juice of ½ a lemon (1.7 g net carbs)
- 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (0 g net carbs)
- 1/2 cup avocado (2 g net carbs)
- Sea salt to taste (0 g net carbs)
- Optional: Flavor with fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or basil (they’re carb-free!)
Directions:
Put all ingredients in a large bowl and massage your mix until it softens up, sweetens up, and turns bright green.
Room in your day for a few more carbs? Here are a few additional keto-friendly topping suggestions for your keto kale salad:
- 2 Tbsp. pumpkin seeds (1.2 g net carbs)
- 2 Tbsp. hemp seeds (1.4 g net carbs)
- 2 Tbsp. chia seeds (1.8 g net carbs)
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber (1.9 net carbs)
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (2-3 net carbs depending on the color of pepper)