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, diced; 1 cup cranberries, dried; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal Flavor Journey

This vibrant Kale Sweet Potato Salad with Cranberries is a nutritious and delicious option for any meal. Packed with flavors and textures, it's perfect for a light lunch or as a hearty side dish.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-16T18:42:18.248Z

This Kale Sweet Potato Salad is not only colorful but also packed with nutrients. The combination of sweet potatoes, kale, and cranberries provides a delightful mix of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for fall gatherings or a healthy weeknight dinner!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious ingredients that fuel your body
A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Versatile dish that can be served warm or cold

      

Nutritional Benefits of Kale and Sweet Potatoes

Kale is often celebrated as a superfood, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. These nutrients are vital for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting optimal digestion. Including kale in your diet can help lower cholesterol levels and contribute to heart health, making it a fantastic choice for any salad.

Sweet potatoes, on the other hand, are rich in complex carbohydrates and provide a great source of energy. They are high in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, supporting eye health and skin integrity. This vibrant vegetable also contains fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, making it an excellent addition to salads.

Flavor Combinations That Delight

The sweet and earthy flavors of roasted sweet potatoes perfectly complement the slightly bitter notes of kale. This balance creates a delightful contrast that makes every bite interesting. Adding dried cranberries introduces a pop of sweetness and a chewy texture, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the salad. Together, these ingredients create a symphony of tastes that appeal to a variety of palates.

Walnuts add a crunchy element, contributing healthy fats and protein to the dish. Their rich, nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the other ingredients, making the salad not only satisfying but also nourishing. Incorporating red onion introduces a sharpness that cuts through the sweetness, ensuring a well-rounded experience with every forkful.

Serving Suggestions

This Kale Sweet Potato Salad is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve it warm as a cozy side dish alongside roasted meats or grilled fish for a comforting meal. Alternatively, enjoy it cold as a refreshing lunch option, perfect for meal prep or picnics. The flavors deepen as they meld together, making it a great dish to prepare in advance.

For those looking to elevate this salad, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein. A sprinkle of feta cheese or goat cheese can provide a tangy contrast that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberries. Experiment with different nuts or seeds to customize the salad based on your preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups kale, chopped
2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 cup cranberries, dried
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix these fresh ingredients for a delightful and healthy salad.

Instructions

Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes, or until tender.

Prepare the Dressing

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

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine chopped kale, roasted sweet potatoes, cranberries, walnuts, and red onion. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to coat.

Serve

Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for enhanced flavors.

This salad can be enjoyed immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Kale Sweet Potato Salad, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. However, it's best to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the kale from wilting.

If you're preparing the salad for meal prep, consider portioning it into individual containers. This makes it easy to grab and go, ensuring you have a healthy meal ready whenever hunger strikes. Just remember to add the dressing right before eating for the best texture and flavor.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to customize this salad based on your personal taste or what you have on hand. For a Mediterranean twist, you can add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of oregano. This variation adds extra depth and an exciting flavor profile that transports you to sunny shores.

If you're looking for a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. This will bring a spicy kick that contrasts with the sweetness of the sweet potatoes and cranberries, creating a unique and satisfying experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for walnuts?

You can use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts if you prefer.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is completely vegan and plant-based.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add roasted bell peppers, carrots, or any other vegetables you enjoy.