Gusto TV Kale and Lentil Salad with Silken Tofu Green Goddess Dressing Recipe

Kale and Lentil Salad with Silken Tofu Green Goddess Dressing Recipe

This Kale and Lentil Salad with Silken Tofu Green Goddess Dressing is a vibrant, nutrient-dense dish that combines earthy greens, protein-packed lentils, and a creamy, herbaceous dressing. Featured on Everyday Excellent with Vanessa Gianfrancesco, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, vegan-friendly, and satisfying meal.

With the fresh flavors of tarragon, parsley, dill, and basil blended into a silky tofu dressing, this salad offers a bright, creamy texture without relying on dairy. The combination of kale and lentils provides both fiber and plant-based protein, making it ideal for a hearty lunch, light dinner, or even meal prep for the week.

The Inspiration

The inspiration behind this salad comes from classic Green Goddess dressing, traditionally made with mayonnaise and sour cream, reimagined here in a vegan-friendly, silken tofu version. Using silken tofu as a base creates a creamy, protein-rich dressing that coats each bite of kale and lentils while keeping the salad light and wholesome.

Kale, often hailed as a superfood, brings a slightly bitter, earthy flavor that balances beautifully with the subtle sweetness of carrots and the gentle bite of red onions. Green lentils add heartiness and texture, transforming this salad into a complete, satisfying meal. The use of fresh herbs ensures a burst of vibrant flavor in every forkful, making this dish both visually appealing and incredibly delicious.

Ingredients

1 bunch (8-10 leaves) Lacinato kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
½ cup uncooked green lentils
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
1 medium carrot, grated large
½ block silken tofu
Juice of ½ lemon
2 tbsp fresh tarragon leaves
¼ cup fresh parsley
2 tbsp fresh dill
2 tbsp fresh basil
1 clove garlic, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

Methods

Wash lentils and add to a medium pot. Cover with water and bring to a simmer over high heat. Cover, lower the heat to maintain a simmer, and cook for 17 minutes. Drain and rinse lentils under cold water.
Add the silken tofu and lemon juice to a food processor and process until smooth. Add the tarragon, parsley, dill, basil, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste and process until the herbs are chopped and mixed into the dressing.
Add the kale, lentils, red onion, and carrot to a large bowl. Pour over dressing and toss thoroughly to combine.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Kale and Lentil Salad with Silken Tofu Green Goddess Dressing as a light, nutrient-packed lunch or a side dish alongside roasted vegetables, grilled tofu, or chickpea patties. For added texture, sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or sliced almonds over the top.

This salad is also ideal for meal prep, as the flavors deepen after sitting for a few hours in the fridge. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days, keeping the dressing separate if you prefer your kale crisp. For a refreshing twist, add sliced avocado or roasted sweet potato cubes before serving, or drizzle with a touch of extra lemon juice for brightness.

Final Thoughts

This Kale and Lentil Salad with Silken Tofu Green Goddess Dressing is a standout for anyone looking for a healthy, vegan, and protein-rich meal. Combining the earthy flavors of kale, the heartiness of lentils, and a creamy, herb-infused dressing, it’s both nutritionally balanced and full of flavor.

Whether served as a light lunch, a side for dinner, or a meal-prep staple, this salad is easy to make, visually appealing, and endlessly versatile. Its combination of textures, from tender lentils to crisp kale and crunchy vegetables, paired with the creamy dressing, makes it a crowd-pleasing and Instagram-worthy dish.

Find more recipes from Everyday Excellent here!