Sweet Kale Cranberry Salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Serves: 6

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Why This Sweet Kale Cranberry Salad Will Become Your Favorite

There’s something magical about the combination of fresh kale, sweet cranberries, and toasted almonds that makes this sweet kale cranberry salad absolutely irresistible. The secret lies in properly massaging the kale with olive oil and salt, which transforms the tough leaves into tender, flavorful greens that even kale skeptics will love.

I’ve been making variations of this sweet kale cranberry salad for years, and it never fails to impress. The balance of textures – from the hearty kale to the chewy cranberries and crunchy almonds – creates a symphony of flavors that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients That Make This Sweet Kale Cranberry Salad Special

For the Salad:

• 8 cups fresh kale, stems removed and leaves finely chopped (about 2 large bunches)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for massaging the kale)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (choose unsweetened for best flavor)
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted until golden
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional, for extra bite)

For the Honey Lemon Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Sweet Kale Cranberry Salad

Preparing the Kale

1. Start with fresh, quality kale. Remove the thick stems by holding the top of each stem and running your hand down to strip away the leaves. This technique ensures you get only the tender parts of the kale.
2. Chop the kale finely. Stack the leaves and roll them tightly, then slice them into thin ribbons. Chop these ribbons into bite-sized pieces – this makes your sweet kale cranberry salad much more enjoyable to eat.
3. The massage technique is crucial. Place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. Using clean hands, massage the kale for 2-3 minutes until the leaves begin to soften and turn a darker green. This step transforms tough kale into tender, delicious greens.

Creating the Perfect Dressing

4. Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. The honey should be fully incorporated, and the mixture should look smooth and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – you want a balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors.

Assembling Your Sweet Kale Cranberry Salad

5. Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and golden. Let them cool completely before adding to the salad.
6. Combine all ingredients. Add the dried cranberries, toasted almonds, and grated Parmesan to the massaged kale. If using red onion, add it now.
7. Dress the salad by pouring the dressing over the ingredients and tossing everything together until well coated. Let the sweet kale cranberry salad sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Kale Cranberry Salad

• Choose the right kale: Lacinato (dinosaur) kale works beautifully, but curly kale is equally delicious in this sweet kale cranberry salad.
• Don’t skip the massage: This step is what transforms your sweet kale cranberry salad from tough to tender.
• Toast your nuts: Toasting the almonds brings out their natural oils and adds incredible depth to the flavor.
• Make it ahead: This sweet kale cranberry salad actually improves as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep.

Nutritional Benefits of This Sweet Kale Cranberry Salad

This sweet kale cranberry salad is a nutritional powerhouse. Kale provides vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate, while cranberries add antioxidants and fiber. The almonds contribute healthy fats and protein, making this sweet kale cranberry salad both satisfying and nourishing.

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Variations to Try

Protein Additions

Transform this sweet kale cranberry salad into a complete meal by adding:

• Grilled chicken breast
• Roasted chickpeas
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Hard-boiled eggs

Seasonal Variations

• Fall version: Add diced apple and pumpkin seeds
• Winter version: Include pomegranate seeds and walnuts
• Spring version: Add fresh berries and goat cheese

Perfect Pairings for Your Sweet Kale Cranberry Salad

This versatile sweet kale cranberry salad pairs beautifully with many dishes. For more recipe inspiration, explore our collection of fresh vibrant salads that complement any meal.

Consider serving this sweet kale cranberry salad alongside:

• Our hearty main dishes for a complete meal
• Perfect sides for holiday gatherings
• Dinner delights for weeknight meals

Don’t forget to check out our flavored dips marinades section for additional dressing ideas that would work wonderfully with this sweet kale cranberry salad.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This sweet kale cranberry salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The kale actually becomes more tender as it sits with the dressing, making leftovers just as delicious as the fresh salad.

For best results, store the dressed salad separately from any additional toppings like extra nuts or cheese, adding them just before serving.

Why This Sweet Kale Cranberry Salad Works for Every Occasion

Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch option, a side dish for dinner, or something special for holiday entertaining, this sweet kale cranberry salad delivers every time. The combination of flavors and textures makes it appealing to both health-conscious eaters and those who might typically avoid leafy greens.

The beauty of this sweet kale cranberry salad lies in its simplicity and flexibility. You can easily double the recipe for larger gatherings or customize it with your favorite add-ins. It’s equally at home at a casual family dinner or an elegant dinner party.

Final Thoughts

This sweet kale cranberry salad has earned its place as a staple in my recipe collection, and I’m confident it will become a favorite in yours too. The combination of nutritious ingredients, incredible flavor, and make-ahead convenience makes it a winner for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.

Try this sweet kale cranberry salad today, and discover why it’s become such a beloved recipe. Don’t forget to visit our tasty snacks section for more healthy recipe inspiration, or explore our refreshing beverages to complete your meal.

For dessert, browse our irresistible desserts or start your day right with our breakfast favorites.