EASY Kale & Sweet Potato Salad Recipe with Almonds, Cranberries & Cheese!

Introduction

This recipe introduces a nutritious and flavorful kale and sweet potato salad, ideal for the fall season but equally enjoyable throughout the year. The salad combines oven-roasted sweet potatoes with massaged kale, dressed in a simple vinaigrette, and garnished with feta cheese, almonds, and dried cranberries.

Ingredients

  • Sweet potatoes
  • Kale
  • Olive oil
  • Salt
  • Herbes de Provence
  • Smoked paprika
  • Garlic powder
  • Balsamic vinegar
  • White wine
  • Diced shallots
  • Dried cranberries
  • Almonds or pine nuts
  • Feta or goat cheese

Preparation Steps

  1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:

    • Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into small bite-sized pieces.
    • Season with olive oil, salt, herbes de Provence, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
    • Place on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F until fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and broil for 4-5 minutes until caramelized.
  2. Prepare the Kale:

    • Remove the hard stems from the kale and chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Make the Dressing:

    • Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a bit of salt, herbes de Provence, and white wine. Whisk together.
  4. Massage the Kale:

    • Pour half of the dressing over the kale. Wear gloves and massage the kale until it softens. Add diced shallots and dried cranberries.
  5. Assemble the Salad:

    • Arrange the kale on a plate. Add the roasted sweet potatoes on top.
    • Sprinkle with your choice of nuts (almonds, pine nuts, or diced pecans).
    • Add crumbled feta or goat cheese.
    • Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad.

Conclusion

This kale and sweet potato salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. With the sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes, the crunch of the nuts, the tanginess of the dried cranberries, and the creaminess of the cheese, it's a satisfying meal that's both healthy and delicious. It's perfect for a cozy fall dinner, but its ingredients are available year-round, so you can enjoy it any time you like.