Kale Sweet Potato Salad with Cranberries
Highlighted under: Bright & Healthy Bites
This vibrant Kale Sweet Potato Salad with Cranberries is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dish for any occasion.
This Kale Sweet Potato Salad combines nutritious ingredients to create a deliciously satisfying meal. The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and cranberries pairs beautifully with the earthy flavor of kale, making this dish not only healthy but also irresistible.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors
- Packed with nutrients and fiber for a healthy meal
- Vibrant colors make it visually appealing
Nutritional Benefits of Kale and Sweet Potatoes
Kale is often touted as a superfood, packed with vitamins A, C, and K. It also contains powerful antioxidants that help combat inflammation and promote overall health. Including kale in your diet can boost your immune system and contribute to healthy skin and vision.
Sweet potatoes are another nutritional powerhouse, rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. This root vegetable not only adds natural sweetness to the salad but also provides sustained energy, making it a great addition to any meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Kale Sweet Potato Salad with Cranberries is versatile enough to serve at various events, from holiday gatherings to summer barbecues. Its vibrant colors and unique flavor profile make it a real showstopper on any table. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together, this salad will impress your guests.
Moreover, it can be served as a main dish or a side, complementing a wide range of proteins such as grilled chicken, fish, or even plant-based options like chickpeas. The salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing, ensuring it will be a hit among your friends and family.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them properly can help maintain the freshness of the salad. Keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to prevent the kale from wilting. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you're ready to enjoy the salad again, simply drizzle the dressing over the top, toss it gently, and it will taste nearly as fresh as the day you made it. This makes it a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal throughout the week.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup cranberries, dried
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl for a fresh and healthy meal.
Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes or until tender.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale, roasted sweet potatoes, cranberries, walnuts, and feta cheese. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this delightful salad with a protein of your choice for a complete meal. Grilled chicken, baked salmon, or even roasted chickpeas can elevate the dish, making it more filling without sacrificing flavor.
For an added crunch, consider topping the salad with crispy baked tortilla strips or additional nuts. The combination of textures—from the hearty sweet potatoes to the crunchy walnuts—creates a satisfying eating experience.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this salad according to your taste preferences. Substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile. You can also use goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier texture.
If you want to add more greens, include arugula or spinach alongside the kale. For a bit of heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless variations.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other greens instead of kale?
Yes, you can substitute spinach or arugula for a different flavor.
→ Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving.
Kale Sweet Potato Salad with Cranberries
This vibrant Kale Sweet Potato Salad with Cranberries is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dish for any occasion.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Bright & Healthy Bites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup cranberries, dried
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes or until tender.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale, roasted sweet potatoes, cranberries, walnuts, and feta cheese. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 6g