Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to incorporate more greens into your meals, this Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta is just the ticket! It’s vibrant, fresh, and packed with flavor. What makes this salad extra special is how simple it is to throw together—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests at a family gathering. You’ll find that the combination of crunchy walnuts, sweet cranberries, and creamy feta perfectly complements the hearty kale.

This salad isn’t just tasty; it’s also versatile. You can easily customize it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just ten minutes—perfect for those hectic days!
• Nutrient-Packed: With kale as the main ingredient, you’re getting tons of vitamins and minerals.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and savory combination, making it a hit at any table.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Whip it up ahead of time for easy lunches or side dishes during the week.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of flavors from the dressing and toppings creates a delightful taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here are some simple, wholesome items you’ll need to make this delightful salad:

For the Salad

• 6 cups chopped kale
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Dressing

• 2 tbsp. lemon juice
• Zest from one lemon
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp. honey
• 1/4 tsp. sea salt
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper

Variations

This recipe is flexible and can be adjusted to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or chickpeas for an added protein boost.
• Mix Up the Nuts: Substitute pecans or almonds if you prefer something different from walnuts.
• Try Different Cheeses: Feel free to swap feta for goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you’d like.
• Add Fresh Fruit: Sliced apples or pears would add a lovely sweetness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.

How to Make Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta

Step 1: Prepare the Kale

Begin by slicing (or ripping) the kale away from its woody stalks. This step ensures you get only tender leaves that are pleasant to eat.

Step 2: Rinse and Dry

Next, rinse your kale thoroughly in a colander or sieve. Removing any dirt is essential for freshness! If you have a salad spinner, use it to dry off excess moisture; otherwise, gently pat it down with a paper towel.

Step 3: Chop the Kale

Using a cutting board, roll up the kale lengthwise and chop it into smaller pieces—about 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch wide works well. This size makes it easier to eat and allows all the flavors to mix nicely.

Step 4: Massage Your Kale

Place your chopped kale in a large mixing bowl and give it a gentle massage for about 30 seconds. Yes, really! Massaging helps soften its texture and makes it more enjoyable to eat.

Step 5: Add Olive Oil

Drizzle 1 to 2 teaspoons of olive oil over your massaged kale. Continue massaging gently so that every leaf gets coated—this will enhance flavor and tenderness.

Step 6: Mix in Other Ingredients

Now it’s time to add in those delicious extras! Toss in dried cranberries, coarsely chopped walnuts, grated lemon zest, and crumbled feta cheese. Try not to stir just yet; let’s save that for later!

Step 7: Make the Dressing

Grab a mason jar (or any container with a lid), add olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Close it up tightly and shake vigorously for about a minute until everything combines into a smooth dressing.

Step 8: Toss Everything Together

Pour your freshly made dressing over the salad mix and toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated. Enjoy every bite of this refreshing Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta!

Pro Tips for Making Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta

Making the perfect kale salad is all about technique and a little love! Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish.

• Massage the kale: Taking a moment to massage the kale not only softens its texture but also enhances its flavor. It helps break down the tough cell walls, making it more palatable and enjoyable!
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible. Freshly chopped kale, plump cranberries, and good-quality feta will create a vibrant salad that bursts with flavor.
• Adjust the dressing to taste: The beauty of homemade dressings is their adaptability. Feel free to tweak the acidity or sweetness based on your personal preference; a dash more honey or a splash more vinegar can make all the difference.
• Add protein for a heartier meal: If you want to transform this salad into a full meal, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas. These additions will enhance both the nutrition and satiety of your dish.
• Prepare ahead of time: This salad can be prepared in advance! Just store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve. This ensures your salad stays crisp and fresh without wilting.

How to Serve Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta

Presenting your kale salad beautifully can make it even more appetizing! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or mint on top for an aromatic burst of freshness.
• Extra feta crumbles: A few additional crumbles of feta add not only flavor but also visual appeal.
• Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest on top right before serving brightens up the dish and enhances its citrusy notes.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa: This nutty grain complements the flavors in the salad while providing additional protein and fiber.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tartness of cranberries and adds a satisfying texture.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and depth, enhancing your meal’s overall flavor profile.
• Hummus with pita chips: For a light appetizer, serve hummus alongside crispy pita chips. The creamy texture contrasts nicely with the crunchy salad.

Enjoy crafting this vibrant Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut, and Feta! It’s not just a feast for your taste buds but also for your eyes. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta is perfect for meal prep! It holds up nicely, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week without losing its fresh taste.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the kale from wilting.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the texture changes in kale and feta once thawed.
• However, if you want to freeze components, consider freezing just the walnuts and cranberries separately.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
• If you prefer a warm salad, lightly sauté it in a pan with a drizzle of olive oil for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making this delicious salad!

Can I make Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ingredients in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta?

You can use crumbled tofu or your favorite dairy-free cheese as an alternative. Both options will add a lovely creaminess without any animal-derived products.

How long does Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, this salad can last up to 3 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate!

Can I add other ingredients to my Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding ingredients like avocado, chickpeas, or other nuts depending on your preference.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta as much as I do! It’s not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients that will leave you feeling energized. Whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or meal prep for the week ahead, this salad is sure to impress. Give it a try and let your taste buds celebrate!