Kale Sweet Potato Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish, combining the hearty texture of kale with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious food lovers. It’s ideal for those seeking a wholesome, plant-based meal that is both filling and flavorful.
Ingredients:
The key ingredients of this salad are kale and sweet potatoes. Kale, known for its dark, leafy greens, is rich in vitamins and antioxidants. It provides a chewy texture and a slightly peppery flavor. Sweet potatoes, on the other hand, add a sweet, earthy taste and are packed with fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. Other ingredients include red onion for a sharp bite, crunchy walnuts for a nutty depth, and dried cranberries for a touch of tart sweetness. The salad is dressed in a simple yet delicious vinaigrette made from olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper, which balances the flavors beautifully.
Preparation Method:
To prepare the Kale Sweet Potato Salad, start by roasting the sweet potatoes. Cube the sweet potatoes and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender and slightly caramelized. Meanwhile, prepare the kale by removing the stems and chopping the leaves. To soften the kale and make it more palatable, massage it with a bit of the salad dressing. This step is crucial as it helps in breaking down the tough fibers of the kale. Once the sweet potatoes are done, let them cool slightly before combining them with the kale. Add in the thinly sliced red onion, walnuts, and dried cranberries. Toss everything with the remaining dressing until well coated.
Serving Suggestions:
This Kale Sweet Potato Salad can be served as a main dish or a side. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a protein-packed meal. It’s also great as a standalone dish for a light lunch or dinner. The salad holds up well in the refrigerator, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. The flavors meld together over time, so it’s just as delicious the next day.
In conclusion, the Kale Sweet Potato Salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option. Its combination of sweet, savory, and tangy elements ensures that each bite is as delicious as it is healthy.
Kale Sweet Potato Salad Recipe | S2Recipes
Details Kale Sweet Potato Salad Recipes
Prep Time: 35 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 1 hr
Servings: 6
Ingredients For Kale Sweet Potato Salad Recipes
1 sweet potato
1/2 red onion
2 tablespoons olive oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
4 strips bacon
1 bunch kale
1 Granny Smith apple - cored and diced
2 green onions, sliced
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey, or to taste
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup raw, unsalted sunflower seeds (optional)
1/4 cup bacon grease or other oil
Instructions: Kale Sweet Potato Salad Recipes
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a 12 x18-inch rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Peel and dice sweet potato into 3/4-inch pieces, about 2 cups, and place in a bowl. Dice onion into 3/4-inch pieces and add to sweet potatoes. Add olive oil; season with salt and pepper, and stir to combine. Spread vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake in the center of the preheated oven until sweet potatoes are fork tender, but not mushy, about 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
Step 4: Meanwhile, cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until brown and crisp, 5 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally. Remove from heat, crumble, and set aside. Reserve bacon fat and allow to cool, but do not refrigerate.
Step 5: Remove tough stems from kale, rinse well, and place in a colander to drain. Lightly press kale with paper towels to assist with drying.
Step 6: Cut kale into bite-sized pieces and place in a large salad bowl. Add cooled sweet potatoes and onions, apple, and green onions.
Step 7: To make dressing, place reserved bacon fat, about 1/4 cup, in a pint jar with a well-fitting lid. If you don't have enough bacon fat, add enough oil to get to 1/4 cup. Add vinegar, mustard, honey, and salt and pepper, to taste. Attach the lid and shake vigorously to combine.
Step 8: Pour dressing over salad, and toss. Sprinkle crumbled bacon over salad, and garnish with sunflower seeds.
✅What are the main ingredients in the Kale Sweet Potato Salad recipe?
The Kale Sweet Potato Salad features a blend of nutritious ingredients like kale, roasted sweet potatoes, nuts (such as almonds or walnuts), dried cranberries, and feta cheese. This combination offers a rich mix of flavors and textures, making the salad both delicious and healthful.
✅How long does it take to prepare the Kale Sweet Potato Salad?
Preparation time for the Kale Sweet Potato Salad is approximately 45 minutes. This includes time for roasting the sweet potatoes, chopping the kale, and assembling the salad. It's a great option for a wholesome meal that doesn't require too much prep time.
✅Is the Kale Sweet Potato Salad a healthy choice?
Yes, the Kale Sweet Potato Salad is a highly nutritious option. Kale is a superfood packed with vitamins and antioxidants, sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and beta-carotene, and nuts add healthy fats and proteins, making this salad a well-rounded, healthful meal.
✅Can the recipe be modified for different dietary needs?
Absolutely! The Kale Sweet Potato Salad is adaptable to various dietary preferences. For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a vegan substitute. Nuts can be swapped or omitted for allergy concerns, and additional vegetables or grains can be added for more variety.
✅What dressing pairs well with this salad?
A light vinaigrette dressing pairs wonderfully with the Kale Sweet Potato Salad. A simple mix of olive oil, vinegar (like balsamic or apple cider), and a hint of mustard or honey complements the salad's flavors without overpowering them.
✅How can this salad be stored for later use?
To store the Kale Sweet Potato Salad, keep the dressing separate and refrigerate the salad components in an airtight container. Properly stored, it can stay fresh for 2-3 days. Simply dress the salad right before serving to maintain its crispness and flavor.
✅What makes this Kale Sweet Potato Salad unique?
The uniqueness of the Kale Sweet Potato Salad lies in its combination of warm, roasted sweet potatoes with the fresh, crisp texture of kale. The addition of nuts and cranberries adds a delightful crunch and sweetness, creating a well-balanced and satisfying dish.
✅Is this salad suitable for special occasions or everyday meals?
The Kale Sweet Potato Salad is versatile enough for both special occasions and everyday meals. Its colorful presentation and rich flavors make it suitable for gatherings and holidays, while its simple preparation and nutritious ingredients are perfect for daily dining.
