Pistachio Free Cilantro-Lime White Bean and Kale Salad
Bright, zesty, and packed with plant-based goodness, this hearty salad brings together creamy white beans, buttery avocado, and tender massaged kale in a way that genuinely satisfies. The cilantro-lime dressing — built with fresh lime juice, garlic, cumin, and a touch of honey — ties everything together with a bold, herbaceous punch that makes every bite feel alive. Massaging the kale with a little salt is the secret move here: it softens the leaves and coaxes out a deeper, more mellow flavor so you're not fighting any bitterness. Pumpkin seeds add a satisfying crunch and a subtle nuttiness without any of the cross-contamination concerns that can come with mixed nut products at the store. Cherry tomatoes bring a pop of sweetness and color that rounds out the whole bowl beautifully. It comes together in one large mixing bowl with minimal fuss, making it an easy go-to for lunches, light dinners, or a crowd-pleasing side that holds up well on a table.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the salad
- 1 bunch lacinato kale (about 8 oz), stems removed, leaves thinly sliced
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 large avocado, pitted and diced
- ⅓ cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems, finely chopped
- 1 small garlic clove, finely grated or minced
- 1 tsp raw honey
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Place the sliced kale in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with 1/4 tsp salt. Using clean hands, massage the kale firmly for 1–2 minutes until the leaves darken, soften noticeably, and reduce in volume by about half.
- 2
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, honey, cumin, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using, until the dressing is uniform and slightly emulsified.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!