Kale Sweet Potato Salad with Cranberries

Name: Kale Sweet Potato Salad with Cranberries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups kale, chopped; 2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed; 1 cup cranberries, dried; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh & Healthy Plates

A vibrant and nutritious salad that combines the earthy flavors of kale and sweet potatoes with the sweetness of cranberries.

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2025-12-16T20:54:17.911Z

This Kale Sweet Potato Salad with Cranberries is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, perfect for a healthy meal or as a side dish.

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Nutritious ingredients packed with vitamins and minerals
A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Great for meal prep or as a refreshing side dish

      

Nutritional Benefits of Kale and Sweet Potatoes

Kale is renowned for its impressive nutritional profile. Loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, this leafy green is a powerhouse of antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body. Additionally, kale is rich in fiber, which promotes digestive health and keeps you feeling full longer. When combined with sweet potatoes, which are high in beta-carotene and potassium, this salad becomes a nutritional juggernaut.

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also offer numerous health benefits. They are a fantastic source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the earthiness of kale, creating a satisfying flavor balance. This combination ensures that your body receives a diverse array of nutrients, making this salad a wholesome choice for any meal.

Versatility of the Salad

This Kale Sweet Potato Salad is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you're looking for a hearty lunch option or a vibrant side dish for dinner, this salad fits the bill perfectly. It can also serve as a light main course when paired with grilled chicken or chickpeas, offering a balanced meal rich in protein and fiber.

Additionally, the salad is an excellent choice for meal prep. It holds up well in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. This means you can enjoy delicious, nutritious meals throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Kale Sweet Potato Salad, consider adding seasonal fruits like sliced apples or pears for an extra layer of sweetness. A sprinkle of pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds can also enhance the texture and add a delightful crunch. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of chili flakes can introduce an exciting kick to the dish.

Pair this salad with a light protein, such as grilled salmon or tofu, to create a well-rounded meal that satisfies both your taste buds and nutritional needs. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon can complement the flavors beautifully, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups kale, chopped
2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
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 these ingredients well to create a delightful salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Cook Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes or until tender.

Prepare Kale

While the sweet potatoes are roasting, wash and chop the kale. Massage the kale leaves with a bit of olive oil to soften them.

Make Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until combined.

Combine Salad

In a large bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, kale, cranberries, walnuts, and feta. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy salad!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Kale Sweet Potato Salad, storing it properly is essential to maintain its freshness. Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal taste and texture. However, if you’ve added dressing, consider storing the dressing separately to prevent the kale from wilting too quickly.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the ingredients. If needed, add a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon to refresh the flavors before serving.

Customizing Your Salad

One of the best aspects of this salad is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. For a vegan option, simply omit the feta cheese and substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

You can also experiment with different nuts or seeds. Almonds, pecans, or even hemp seeds can add unique flavors and textures. If you prefer a more robust dressing, try adding Dijon mustard or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to enhance the overall taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them separately. Combine them just before serving.

→ Is this salad vegan?

You can make it vegan by omitting the feta cheese or using a vegan alternative.

→ What can I substitute for cranberries?

You can use raisins or chopped apples for a different flavor.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The kale may become softer over time.