Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta

If you’re looking for a bright and refreshing dish that’s quick to whip up, you’ve come to the right place! This Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta is one of my all-time favorites. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something healthy yet delicious. The combination of earthy kale, sweet cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and creamy feta creates a delightful contrast that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

What I love about this salad is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a side dish or make it the star of your meal. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare—ready in just ten minutes! Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just ten minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this salad even on your busiest days.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from kale and nuts, this salad is as good for you as it is tasty.
• Family-Friendly: The delicious mix of flavors makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare this salad ahead of time for meal prep or potlucks; it holds up beautifully!
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alone or pair it with your favorite protein for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this delightful Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta. These items come together to create a dish that’s not only beautiful but also bursting with flavor!

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 Kale Salad is super flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or what flavors you enjoy most.

• Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost.
• Mix up the nuts: Swap walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different crunch.
• Spice things up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Change the cheese: Try goat cheese instead of feta if you’re looking for something creamier.

How to Make Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta

Step 1: Prepare the Kale

Start by slicing (or ripping by hand) the kale from the woody stalk in the middle of the leaf. This step is vital because removing those tough stems helps create a more enjoyable texture in your salad.

Step 2: Rinse and Dry

Next, rinse the kale thoroughly in a colander or sieve. It’s essential to get rid of any grit or dirt. Use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture or pat it dry with a paper towel—this helps prevent sogginess later.

Step 3: Chop the Kale

Now, roll up your rinsed kale lengthwise on a cutting board and chop it into smaller pieces about 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch wide. This makes it easier to eat and helps all those delicious toppings stick!

Step 4: Massage the Kale

Place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl. Yes—you heard me right! A quick 30-second massage will soften the texture significantly. Drizzle 1 to 2 tsp. of olive oil over the kale and gently massage with your hands until it’s tender.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Now it’s time to add in all those tasty ingredients! Toss in the dried cranberries, walnuts, grated lemon rind, and crumbled feta cheese—but don’t stir just yet!

Step 6: Make the Dressing

Using a mason jar, combine olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, sea salt, and pepper. Put the lid on tightly and shake vigorously for about one minute until everything emulsifies into a smooth dressing.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Pour your freshly made dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together until all leaves are coated evenly—this step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

And there you have it—your vibrant Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta is ready to be enjoyed! Serve immediately or let it sit for a few minutes to let those flavors meld together even more beautifully. Enjoy!

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

Making the perfect kale salad is all about technique and fresh ingredients. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your salad shines!

• Massage the kale: This simple step softens the leaves, making them more enjoyable to eat. It helps break down the tough fibers in kale, resulting in a tender texture that absorbs flavors better.
• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly chopped kale, plump cranberries, and high-quality feta will elevate your salad. They add vibrant flavors and textures that dried or processed ingredients simply can’t match.
• Adjust the dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing to suit your taste! If you prefer a tangier flavor, add more lemon juice or vinegar; for sweetness, increase the honey. The goal is to create a balance that you love.
• Let it sit: Allowing your salad to rest for about 10 minutes after tossing it with the dressing will let the flavors meld together. This creates a more harmonious taste throughout each bite.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Consider adding sliced apples for crunch, quinoa for extra protein, or avocado for creaminess. Variety keeps things exciting!

How to Serve Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta

Presenting your kale salad in an inviting way can make all the difference at mealtime. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience!

Garnishes

• Sliced almonds: Sprinkle some on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor that complements the walnuts.
• Fresh herbs: A handful of chopped parsley or mint adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Pomegranate seeds: These juicy gems provide a burst of sweetness and visual appeal, making your salad look even more festive.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa pilaf: This fluffy grain dish is packed with protein and pairs beautifully with your kale salad while adding a hearty component.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies like carrots or bell peppers bring warmth and depth alongside the freshness of your salad.
• Grilled chicken or chickpeas: For added protein, grilled chicken or seasoned chickpeas can make this meal satisfying enough for dinner while still keeping it light.
• Whole-grain bread: Crusty whole-grain bread makes an excellent accompaniment for scooping up salad bites and adds a nice texture contrast.

Enjoy creating this delightful Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta as part of your mealtime routine! Each ingredient brings something special to the table—both in flavor and nutrition.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta is perfect for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious meal throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• If you have leftover dressing, store it separately to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Freezing

• Although this salad is best fresh, you can freeze individual components.
• Chop the kale and walnuts and freeze them in airtight bags.
• Dried cranberries can also be stored in the freezer for longer shelf life.

Reheating

• This salad is served cold, so there’s no need to reheat.
• Simply remove it from the fridge, toss it gently, and enjoy!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious salad.

Can I use a different cheese instead of feta in the Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta?

Absolutely! You can substitute feta with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer. Just make sure whatever cheese you choose complements the flavors of the salad.

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

This salad can last up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container. To keep it fresh longer, store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve.

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

Certainly! Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like sliced apples, avocado, or even quinoa for extra protein.

Is Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is great for meal prep as it stores well and maintains its flavor throughout the week. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

What’s the best way to massage kale for my Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta?

To massage kale effectively, drizzle a little olive oil over it and gently rub between your fingers for about 30 seconds. This helps soften the leaves and makes them more palatable!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta! It’s not just a feast for your taste buds but also packed with nutrients that are great for your body. Whether you’re prepping meals for a busy week or looking for a light yet satisfying dish to share with friends or family, this recipe has got you covered. Enjoy every crunchy bite and feel free to get creative with your additions! Happy cooking!