Ingredients
4 cups chopped kale serves as the hearty base
Curly kale (stems removed, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces) adds texture and nutrients
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes brings sweetness and color
1/4 cup toasted nuts (e.g., almonds or walnuts) provides crunch
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese enhances creaminess (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil acts as a base for dressing
1 tablespoon lemon juice adds brightness
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard balances flavors
Extra-virgin olive oil for massaging and flavor
Fresh lemon juice to soften the kale
Roasted chickpeas offers plant-based protein
Grated carrots contributes vitamins and crunch
Grated red beets adds color and fiber
Thinly sliced watermelon radish (or regular red radishes) for a peppery bite
Cubed avocado supplies healthy fats
Dried cranberries brings antioxidants and sweetness
Toasted pepitas adds more crunch and protein
Sesame seeds for a nutty finish
Sea salt to season
Freshly ground black pepper for a kick
Chopped carrots forms the base of the dressing
Water helps blend smoothly
Extra-virgin olive oil adds richness
Rice vinegar provides acidity
Minced fresh ginger brings zing and flavor
Salt for seasoning
Instructions
1-Start: Start by preheating your oven to 400ยฐF and lining baking sheets with parchment paper for the roasted elements. This process takes about 40 minutes total, with 15 minutes for prep and 25 for roasting, making it ideal for busy lifestyles.
2-Preparation: First, rinse and dry 4 cups of kale leaves, then remove the tough stems to improve texture. Next, chop the kale into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large bowl. Prepare the dressing by roasting the chopped carrots drizzle with olive oil and salt, then bake for 20 to 25 minutes until soft.
3-Blend: Blend the roasted carrots with water, extra-virgin olive oil, rice vinegar, minced fresh ginger, and salt until smooth, then chill it. Meanwhile, massage the kale with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and salt for 2-3 minutes to soften it. Add grated carrots, grated red beets, thinly sliced watermelon radish, half the cubed avocado, dried cranberries, toasted pepitas, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the kale, and toss everything together.
4-Finishing Touches: Drizzle the chilled carrot ginger dressing over the salad and mix again, then top with the remaining cubed avocado, roasted chickpeas, and sesame seeds. For more ideas on variations, check out our healthy salad ideas page. Season to taste and serve right away, adapting as needed for vegan or low-calorie versions by swapping proteins or reducing nuts.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
๐ Massage kale with lemon juice and olive oil to soften leaves and reduce bitterness.
๐ฅ Prepare the carrot ginger dressing ahead and chill for enhanced flavor.
๐ฅ Keep cubed avocado separate during meal prep to prevent browning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Roasting Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting and Tossing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
