Kale Sweet Potato Salad (Printable)
Vibrant salad featuring roasted sweet potatoes, hearty kale, and a creamy tahini dressing. Great healthy lunch or side dish.
# Ingredient List:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
02 - 1 large bunch kale (about 7 ounces), stems removed and leaves chopped
03 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
04 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
→ Dressing
05 - 1/4 cup tahini
06 - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
07 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup
08 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
09 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
10 - 2 to 3 tablespoons water (to thin, as needed)
11 - Salt, to taste
12 - Black pepper, to taste
→ Toppings
13 - 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
14 - 1/4 cup dried cranberries
# How to Make:
01 - Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
02 - Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper. Spread them evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are tender and golden brown.
03 - While the sweet potatoes are roasting, place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Gently massage the kale leaves with your hands for about 2 to 3 minutes until they become darker in color and significantly softened.
04 - In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, olive oil, and minced garlic. Begin by adding 2 tablespoons of water, then gradually add more, a little at a time, until the dressing achieves a smooth, pourable consistency. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to your preference.
05 - Add the roasted sweet potatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped parsley (if using) to the massaged kale. Drizzle the prepared tahini dressing over the ingredients and gently toss everything to ensure an even coating.
06 - Just before serving, sprinkle the toasted pumpkin seeds and dried cranberries over the salad for added texture and flavor.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- It's surprisingly hearty and satisfying, so you won't be hungry an hour later.
- The vibrant colors and fresh flavors just make you feel good from the inside out.
02 -
- Never skip massaging the kale; it truly transforms tough, fibrous leaves into tender, digestible greens that readily absorb the dressing.
- The consistency of your tahini dressing is crucial; always adjust the amount of water gradually to achieve a smooth, pourable texture that coats rather than clumps.
03 -
- For an extra layer of flavor and crunch, consider adding roasted chickpeas or sunflower seeds to your salad.
- To make this dish a complete meal, pair it with some grilled chicken or pan–fried tofu for an added protein boost.