Lemon Kale Breakfast Salad with Avocado and Eggs
There was a time when breakfast in our house meant toast, scrambled eggs, and a cup of coffee—or whatever the kids didn’t finish from their cereal bowls. But once we started focusing more on seasonal eating and getting a little more creative with our garden greens, this lemon kale breakfast salad became an absolute favorite. It’s one of those healthy breakfast salad recipes that keeps you full and energized. If you’ve been looking for easy breakfast salad ideas that go beyond smoothies or oatmeal, this one is a fresh, satisfying change.
It started one spring morning when I was trying to use up a big bunch of kale, and I thought, “Why not breakfast?” I had some leftover roasted potatoes, a few eggs, and a ripe avocado on the counter. I whisked up a lemony dressing, tossed it all together, and just like that, our breakfast routine was forever changed. It was light, zingy, nourishing, and surprisingly satisfying.
Now it’s become a go-to when I want something hearty but clean. The kale softens beautifully when massaged with lemon juice and olive oil, the eggs bring that savory satisfaction, and the avocado adds creaminess that makes the whole dish feel indulgent. It’s perfect for homesteaders, gardeners, and anyone trying to sneak a few extra greens into their day before noon.
PrintLemon Kale Breakfast Salad with Avocado and Eggs
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A fresh, protein-packed breakfast salad made with massaged kale, creamy avocado, soft-boiled eggs, and a zesty lemon dressing.
Ingredients
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4 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1/2 teaspoon sea salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1 avocado, sliced
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2 large eggs
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Optional: red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan, or hemp seeds
Instructions
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Bring a saucepan of water to a boil. Gently lower the eggs and cook for 7–8 minutes for jammy centers. Transfer to cold water to cool, then peel.
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In a large bowl, combine kale, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Massage with your hands for 1–2 minutes until the leaves soften and darken.
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Divide the kale between two bowls. Top each with avocado slices and one soft-boiled egg, halved.
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Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, hemp seeds, or Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.
Notes
- Ensure your avocado is ripe but not overly soft for optimal texture.
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You can prep the kale the night before to save time.
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If you like your eggs a little firmer or softer, adjust the boil time to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
🥄 Recipe Variations:
Looking to switch things up? Try roasted chickpeas or leftover grilled vegetables for an extra flavor boost. These quick swaps make it one of the most flexible healthy breakfast salad recipes you can keep on rotation.
- Add roasted sweet potatoes for a heartier version.
- Top with crispy bacon or smoked salmon for an extra protein boost.
- Swap kale for spinach or arugula if you prefer a more delicate green.
- Use a tahini-lemon dressing for a richer, nuttier flavor.
🌿 Flavor Boosters:
- Add a dash of Dijon mustard to the lemon dressing.
- Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning or toasted sesame seeds.
- Toss in pickled red onions or a spoonful of sauerkraut for added brightness and gut health benefits.
🍳 What to Serve With:
If you’re serving this as part of a bigger brunch spread, it pairs beautifully with toast or muffins and a light fruit salad. It’s also a great anchor dish if you’re exploring more breakfast salad ideas for weekend mornings or holiday brunches.
- Sourdough toast or English muffins
- Fresh fruit salad or seasonal berries
- Herbal tea, green juice, or a light smoothie
🍰 Dessert Pairings:
If you’re making this for brunch, a light, naturally sweet treat rounds it out beautifully:
- Coconut-covered protein balls
- Naturally sweetened banana bread
- Baked cinnamon apples with a dollop of yogurt
🧊 Freezing & Storing:
- Kale salad can be prepped and stored (without avocado or egg) in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Boil eggs in advance and store them unpeeled for up to 5 days.
- Avocados are best sliced fresh, but you can brush leftover slices with lemon juice and store them in an airtight container for a few hours.
🥡 Ways to Use Leftovers:
- Add to a wrap or grain bowl for lunch.
- Mix with quinoa or brown rice for a quick, on-the-go salad.
- Top with leftover roasted veggies or grilled chicken.
❓ Extra FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes—massage the kale and store it separately. Add fresh avocado and eggs right before serving.
Is this good for meal prep?
Absolutely. Prep your kale and boil a batch of eggs at the start of the week.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor and brightness, but bottled works in a pinch.
Is this filling enough on its own?
With protein from the eggs, fiber from kale, and healthy fats from avocado, it’s surprisingly satisfying. But feel free to add toast or grains if you need more fuel.
What are some other breakfast salad ideas I can try?
You can mix and match seasonal greens, roasted root vegetables, or leftover proteins, such as shredded chicken or salmon. Keep the dressing light and fresh, and you’ll have endless breakfast salad ideas to explore!