Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs

Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs

Let me tell you about one of my favorite dishes, the Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs. Picture a sunny afternoon when I first decided to whip this up for a gathering with friends. I was in the mood for something fresh and vibrant, and boy, did this salad fit the bill! The moment I tossed the earthy greens with creamy butter beans and the zingy mustard tahini dressing, I knew I was onto something special. It not only looked beautiful in its bowl but also filled the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. As we gathered around the table, everyone couldn’t help but dig in, and the laughter and joy that ensued made the effort totally worth it. Sharing food like this creates memories, and I cherish the moments spent with loved ones over this remarkable salad.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
32 mins
Prep Time:
25 mins
Cook Time:
7 mins
Difficulty:
Easy
Calories:
320 kcal
Protein:
8 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
18 g
Tools Used:
Skillet, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk

Why This Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs Shines

Colorful and Nutrient-Packed

One of the things I absolutely adore about the Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs is its colorful presentation. Vibrant greens from kale and arugula, pops of purple from radicchio, and the bright green basil make it a feast for the eyes. Not only does it look beautiful, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free choice for any meal.

Incredible Flavor Combination

The blend of flavors is another reason this salad stands out. The nutty and creamy tahini dressing combined with the slight bitterness of the greens creates a wonderful balance. Plus, the crunchy garlicky bread crumbs add texture that elevates every bite. You’ll notice how each ingredient complements the other, making it a delightful experience.

Versatile and Customizable

This salad is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or even as part of a picnic spread, it fits the bill perfectly. You can also easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or seasonal veggies. It’s a great way to clean out the fridge!

Meal Prep Friendly

For those busy weekday mornings, this salad is a lifesaver! You can prepare the mustard tahini dressing in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. On days when I’m rushed, I simply toss the greens and butter beans together, add the dressing, and it’s ready to go!

Perfect for Gatherings

When hosting friends or family, this salad makes a fantastic centerpiece. It serves well in large bowls, and everyone enjoys helping themselves. Seeing everyone gather around for a taste of this vibrant dish is always a win in my book.

Satisfying and Filling

Finally, the butter beans make this salad satisfying without being heavy. They provide a good source of protein and fiber, making it a complete meal that keeps you full and energized. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a more formal dinner, this salad is sure to impress!

Essential Ingredients for Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs

Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs

The ingredients in this vibrant salad work together beautifully, each bringing its unique flavor and texture. The combination of fresh greens, hearty butter beans, and a creamy dressing creates a balanced and satisfying dish. Let’s dive into the key players:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps to sauté the bread crumbs to perfection.
  • 1 ½ cups fresh bread crumbs: Provides essential crunch and serves as the base for the garlicky topping.
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast: Adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall taste, giving a warm, savory depth.
  • Sea salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient.
  • ¼ cup tahini: Offers a creamy texture and adds a nutty flavor to the dressing.
  • 1 clove garlic, finely grated: Fresh garlic brings a pungent aroma and flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon grainy mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the dressing.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and adds acidity.
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup: Balances the tanginess of the dressing with a hint of sweetness.
  • ¼ cup ice water, plus extra if needed: Adjusts the dressing to the right consistency.
  • 4 cups baby arugula: Adds a peppery flavor that complements the other greens.
  • 4 cups kale: The hearty base of the salad, providing texture and nutrients.
  • 1 small head radicchio: Offers a beautiful color and slight bitterness.
  • ½ cup basil leaves: Fresh and aromatic, they add a pop of flavor.
  • ⅓ cup pickled red onions: Adds a tangy crunch that complements the other ingredients.
  • 13.5 oz can butter beans, drained and rinsed: Provides protein and a creamy texture.

Directions for Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs

Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs

Getting this salad prepared is a breeze, and you’ll be amazed at how simple yet satisfying it is. Follow these steps closely to create a delightful dish that will impress anyone!

  1. Make the garlicky bread crumbs. Start by setting a medium sauté pan over medium heat. Once hot, pour in the olive oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan. Add the bread crumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir often, and cook until the bread crumbs turn golden brown and crisp, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. When they’re ready, remove them from the heat and set aside.
  2. Make the grainy mustard tahini. In a medium bowl, whisk together the tahini, salt, pepper, garlic, grainy mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, and maple syrup. While whisking, slowly pour in the ice water. You want a creamy and pourable texture, so don’t hesitate to add a bit more water if needed. Once it reaches the desired consistency, set it aside.
  3. Assemble the salad. In a large mixing bowl, combine the arugula, kale, radicchio, basil, pickled red onions, butter beans, along with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss everything together to ensure an even mix.
  4. Add the dressing. Pour all of the grainy mustard tahini dressing over the salad. Toss everything together again until all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing, ensuring no leaf is left unseasoned!
  5. Top with bread crumbs. Finally, sprinkle the previously made garlicky bread crumbs on top of the salad. This adds a delightful crunch and flavor that complements the creamy dressing. And there you have it!

Things Worth Knowing

Things Worth Knowing

  • Choose fresh ingredients: Always opt for the freshest greens and vegetables to enhance the flavor of your salad.
  • Adjust seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. It can make a big difference!
  • Dress before serving: For best results, dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and fresh.
  • Make it ahead: The salad can be prepared ahead of time, just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Tips and Variations

Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs

Here are some excellent tips and variations to enhance your experience with the Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs. These will help you make the most out of your dish.

  • Storage: Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. However, it’s best to store the dressing separately to maintain the crispness of the greens.
  • Freezing: This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the freshness required for the greens
  • Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
  • Nutty alternative: Consider adding nuts such as almonds or walnuts for an additional crunch and nutrition boost.
  • Herb variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like cilantro or mint for a unique twist.
  • Different beans: Swap out the butter beans for chickpeas or black beans if you prefer a different flavor.

How to Serve Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs

Serving the Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs is as delightful as preparing it. This salad is perfect for a variety of occasions, and here are some ways to enjoy it:

  • Perfect for lunch: Serve it as a light lunch option, accompanied by whole grain bread or pita on the side for a filling meal.
  • Great for dinner parties: This salad makes a beautiful centerpiece on a dinner table, ideal for impressing your guests.
  • Seasonal gatherings: It’s a fantastic choice for spring gatherings, thanks to its fresh ingredients that complement the season.
  • Picnic-friendly: Pack it for a picnic! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.
  • Bulk preparation: If you’re meal prepping, serve it in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
  • Storage tips: Remember to keep any leftovers in an airtight container, and consume them within three days for the best flavor.

FAQ

The key ingredients in the Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs include fresh arugula, kale, butter beans, and a creamy tahini dressing. The addition of pickled red onions, radicchio, and crunchy garlicky bread crumbs elevates the flavor and texture of the salad, making it vibrant and satisfying!

Absolutely! You can prepare most of the components of the Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad in advance. The tahini dressing can be made and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just keep the greens and bread crumbs separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain their freshness and crunch.

Yes! The Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs is perfect for meal prep. You can portion it into containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week. Just remember to add the dressing just before eating to keep everything fresh and the greens crisp!

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a side for a hearty main dish. It’s also delicious on its own or served alongside whole grain bread or pita for a light lunch. The vibrant flavors make it a versatile option for various meal occasions.

Conclusion

The Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs is not just a salad; it’s an experience! The delightful combination of fresh greens, hearty beans, and creamy dressing creates a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing. I encourage you to try making it today; you won’t regret bringing this flavorful and colorful dish to your table!

Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs

Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs

The perfect dish for any occasion, this Kale Arugula Butter Bean Salad with Mustard Tahini Garlicky Bread Crumbs is a vibrant mix of flavors and textures. Packed with healthy greens and topped with crunchy bread crumbs, it's a satisfying meal that you can enjoy any time. Make it tonight for a delicious, easy weeknight dinner!
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 ½ cups fresh bread crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup tahini
  • sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 clove garlic finely grated with a Microplane
  • 1 tablespoon grainy mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup
  • ¼ cup ice water, plus extra if needed
  • 4 cups baby arugula, lightly packed and chopped
  • 4 cups kale, lightly packed and chopped
  • 1 small head radicchio, chopped
  • ½ cup basil leaves, finely sliced
  • cup pickled red onions, chopped
  • 13.5 oz (398 ml) butter beans, drained and rinsed
  • sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Grater
  • Chef's Knife
  • Frying Pan
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Make the garlicky bread crumbs. Start by setting a medium sauté pan over medium heat. Once hot, pour in the olive oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan. Add the bread crumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir often, and cook until the bread crumbs turn golden brown and crisp, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. When they’re ready, remove them from the heat and set aside.
  2. Make the grainy mustard tahini. In a medium bowl, whisk together the tahini, salt, pepper, garlic, grainy mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, and maple syrup. While whisking, slowly pour in the ice water. You want a creamy and pourable texture, so don't hesitate to add a bit more water if needed. Once it reaches the desired consistency, set it aside.
  3. Assemble the salad. In a large mixing bowl, combine the arugula, kale, radicchio, basil, pickled red onions, butter beans, along with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss everything together to ensure an even mix.
  4. Add the dressing. Pour all of the grainy mustard tahini dressing over the salad. Toss everything together again until all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing, ensuring no leaf is left unseasoned!
  5. Top with bread crumbs. Finally, sprinkle the previously made garlicky bread crumbs on top of the salad. This adds a delightful crunch and flavor that complements the creamy dressing. And there you have it!

Notes

  • Tip 1: Plenty of gluten free bread options work great for the fresh bread crumbs here!
  • Tip 2: I used red kale from my garden for these photos, but Lacinato kale is ideal in this salad.
  • Tip 3: To make prep easier, you can mix up the dressing and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. It may need a little loosening with water straight out of the fridge though.

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