Name: Kale Salad with Warm Cranberry Almond Vinaigrette Recipe
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 shallot; 3 cloves garlic; 1 cup dried cranberries; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 2 tsp honey; ½ lemon; ⅛ tsp salt; ⅛ tsp black pepper; 1 bunch kale; ¼ cup Sliced almonds; ¼ cup blue cheese

Indulge in a healthy yet flavorful salad with this kale salad featuring a warm cranberry almond vinaigrette. This dish combines the earthiness of kale, the sweetness of cranberries, and the crunch of almonds, all brought together by a tangy vinaigrette.

Photos of Kale Salad with Warm Cranberry Almond Vinaigrette Recipe

Some ingredients you might not have at home include shallot and dried cranberries. If you're heading to the supermarket, also look for red wine vinegar and blue cheese, as these add a unique flavor dimension to the salad.

Ingredients For Kale Salad With Warm Cranberry Almond Vinaigrette

olive oil: A staple in salad dressings, providing a rich and smooth base.

shallot: Adds a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor.

garlic: Provides a pungent, aromatic flavor.

dried cranberries: Adds a sweet and tart element to the salad.

red wine vinegar: Gives a tangy kick to the vinaigrette.

honey: Balances the acidity with sweetness.

lemon: Adds fresh citrus notes.

salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.

kale: The base of the salad, rich in nutrients.

sliced almonds: Adds a delightful crunch.

blue cheese: Provides a creamy and tangy finish.

One reader, Hillier Yeager says:

This kale salad with warm cranberry almond vinaigrette is a delightful blend of flavors. The sweet cranberries and tangy vinaigrette perfectly complement the tender kale. The almonds add a satisfying crunch, and the blue cheese brings it all together. A must-try for salad lovers!

Hillier Yeager

Techniques Required for Making This Kale Salad Recipe

How to sauté shallots and garlic: Heat oil in a pan, add shallots and cook until tender, then add garlic and sauté briefly. How to massage kale: Toss kale with olive oil and salt, then massage with hands until tender.

How To Make Kale Salad with Warm Cranberry Almond Vinaigrette

The warm cranberry vinaigrette gives this kale salad a hearty and complex flavor that’s so good you won’t even miss the cheeses, which is great for vegans.

Preparation: 2 minutes

Cooking: 8 minutes

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3tbspolive oil,divided
1shallot,peeled and thinly sliced
3clovesgarlic,coarsely chopped
1cupdried cranberries
2tbspred wine vinegar
2tsphoney
½lemon,juice and zest
⅛tspsalt
⅛tspblack pepper
1bunchkale,very thinly sliced
¼cupsliced almonds
¼cupblue cheese,or goat cheese, crumbled, optional

Instructions

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large saute pan over medium-high heat. Add shallot and saute for at least 5 minutes or until tender. Add garlic and saute for 1 minute.
Then add cranberries, red wine vinegar, honey and lemon juice and zest, and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
In a large bowl, toss the kale with olive oil and an extra pinch of salt, and massage kale for 1 minute until tender.
Add in the cranberry/shallot mixture and almonds, and toss to combine. Serve topped with crumbled cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 299.01kcal
Fat: 16.35g
Saturated Fat: 3.28g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.95g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.23g
Carbohydrates: 37.68g
Fiber: 5.01g
Sugar: 25.39g
Protein: 5.81g
Cholesterol: 6.33mg
Sodium: 192.69mg
Calcium: 151.05mg
Potassium: 397.04mg
Iron: 1.51mg
Vitamin A: 268.05µg
Vitamin C: 66.14mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing Kale Salad with Warm Cranberry Almond Vinaigrette

When massaging kale, use a small amount of olive oil and a pinch of salt. This helps to break down the tough fibers, making the kale more tender and easier to eat.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Kale Salad with Warm Cranberry Almond Vinaigrette

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the shallot, mince the garlic, and measure out the cranberries and almonds ahead of time.

Use pre-washed kale: Save time by buying pre-washed and pre-chopped kale from the store.

Quick massage: Massage the kale with olive oil and salt for just one minute to make it tender.

Multitask: While the shallot and garlic are sautéing, prepare the vinaigrette ingredients.

Ready-to-use cheese: Use pre-crumbled blue cheese to save time on crumbling it yourself.

Substitute Ingredients For Kale Salad with Warm Cranberry Almond Vinaigrette Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a mild flavor that works well in dressings.
shallot - Substitute with red onion: Red onion has a similar texture and a slightly stronger flavor, which can add a nice bite to the vinaigrette.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though it will be less pungent.
dried cranberries - Substitute with dried cherries: Dried cherries offer a similar tartness and sweetness, making them a good alternative.
red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a comparable acidity and a slightly fruity flavor that complements the other ingredients.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and can add a subtle, unique flavor to the vinaigrette.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a good stand-in for lemon.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar level of seasoning.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and flavor profile but is slightly milder and less visually noticeable.
kale - Substitute with spinach: Spinach has a similar texture and nutritional profile, though it is milder in flavor and more tender.
sliced almonds - Substitute with sunflower seeds: Sunflower seeds provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor, making them a good alternative.
blue cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese has a similar crumbly texture and tangy flavor, though it is slightly less intense than blue cheese.

How to Beautifully Present This Warm Kale Salad

Use a large, flat white plate: The simplicity of a white plate will make the vibrant colors of the kale and cranberries pop, creating a visually appealing contrast.
Create a base layer: Spread the kale evenly across the plate, ensuring it forms a neat, flat bed. This will act as the foundation for the other ingredients.
Add height with the cranberry almond mixture: Spoon the warm cranberry and shallot mixture over the kale, allowing it to cascade naturally. This adds dimension and visual interest.
Sprinkle the almonds strategically: Scatter the sliced almonds over the salad, focusing on the edges to create a frame. This adds texture and a touch of elegance.
Crumble the blue cheese artistically: Gently crumble the blue cheese over the top, ensuring even distribution. The creamy white cheese will contrast beautifully with the dark greens and reds.
Drizzle with remaining vinaigrette: Lightly drizzle any remaining vinaigrette over the salad, adding a glossy finish and enhancing the flavors.
Garnish with lemon zest: Add a final touch of lemon zest on top for a burst of color and a hint of citrus aroma.
Serve immediately: Present the dish while the cranberry almond vinaigrette is still warm, ensuring the best flavor and texture experience for the judges.

Storing and Freezing Tips for Kale Salad with Warm Cranberry Almond Vinaigrette

This kale salad is best served immediately after tossing with the warm cranberry almond vinaigrette. The warm dressing will slightly wilt the kale, making it more tender and flavorful.
If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salad will keep for up to 3 days, while the dressing can be stored for up to 5 days.
To serve leftovers, gently reheat the dressing in a saucepan or microwave until warm, then toss with the reserved kale salad.
If you want to prepare the salad in advance, you can massage the kale with olive oil and salt up to 24 hours beforehand. Store the massaged kale in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Prepare the dressing and other ingredients, such as the sautéed shallot and garlic, up to 24 hours in advance as well. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the salad.
It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the kale and other ingredients will deteriorate upon thawing. The dressing may also separate and lose its consistency when frozen and thawed.

How To Reheat Leftover Kale Salad

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover kale salad in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat the salad in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until it's warmed through. This method helps to retain the texture of the kale and prevents it from becoming soggy.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, you can use a microwave. Place the leftover kale salad in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave the salad on high for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. Be sure to stir the salad halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
For a stovetop reheating option, place the leftover kale salad in a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or water to the pan to prevent the salad from sticking. Stir the salad frequently and heat it for 3-5 minutes, or until it's warmed through. This method allows you to quickly reheat the salad while maintaining its texture and flavor.
If you want to refresh the flavors of the leftover kale salad, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil before reheating. This will help to brighten up the flavors and make the salad taste as if it were freshly prepared.
When reheating the kale salad, be mindful of the toppings such as sliced almonds and blue cheese. You may want to remove these toppings before reheating and add them back once the salad is warmed through. This will prevent the almonds from becoming soft and the blue cheese from melting too much.

Interesting Fact About Kale Salad with Warm Cranberry Almond Vinaigrette

A random fact about this recipe is that kale is a nutrient-dense leafy green that is high in vitamins A, C, and K. The cranberries in the vinaigrette add a touch of sweetness and are rich in antioxidants, making this salad both delicious and healthy.

Is Making This Kale Salad Recipe at Home Cost-Effective?

This kale salad with warm cranberry almond vinaigrette is quite cost-effective. The main ingredients like kale, dried cranberries, and almonds are affordable and can be bought in bulk. Olive oil, shallots, and blue cheese add a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $12-$15 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Kale Salad Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This kale salad with warm cranberry almond vinaigrette is a nutritious and flavorful dish. Kale is a superfood packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. The olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the almonds offer protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and add a delightful tartness to the salad. The blue cheese, although high in fat, is used in moderation and contributes calcium and protein to the dish.

To further enhance the healthiness of this salad, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of blue cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety to decrease the overall fat content
Add more nutrient-dense ingredients, such as:
- Sliced bell peppers for extra vitamin C and crunch
- Grated carrots for beta-carotene and fiber
- Quinoa or chickpeas for additional protein and complex carbohydrates
Use a lighter vinaigrette by reducing the oil and increasing the vinegar or lemon juice
Toast the almonds to bring out their flavor, allowing you to use less while still enjoying their taste and texture
Massage the kale for a longer time to make it more tender and easier to digest

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Kale Salad Recipe

This kale salad with warm cranberry almond vinaigrette is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The warm vinaigrette, with its sweet and tangy notes from the cranberries and red wine vinegar, beautifully complements the earthy kale. Massaging the kale ensures it's tender and palatable. The almonds add a satisfying crunch, while the blue cheese provides a creamy, tangy finish. This dish is both nutritious and sophisticated, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

Enhance Your Kale Salad with Warm Cranberry Almond Vinaigrette Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine a velvety butternut squash soup, its rich, creamy texture perfectly complementing the hearty kale salad. The subtle sweetness of the squash harmonizes with the cranberries and honey in the vinaigrette, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Picture succulent chicken breasts, marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, then grilled to perfection. The smoky, citrusy notes of the chicken provide a delightful contrast to the earthy kale and tangy blue cheese in the salad.

Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Medley: Envision a vibrant medley of quinoa and roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. This colorful side dish adds a nutty, wholesome element that pairs beautifully with the warm cranberry almond vinaigrette.

Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Think of warm, freshly baked breadsticks, infused with the irresistible aroma of garlic and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. These golden, crispy delights are the perfect accompaniment to the kale salad, offering a satisfying crunch and a burst of savory goodness.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Visualize tender Brussels sprouts, roasted until caramelized and then drizzled with a luscious balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts is beautifully balanced by the sweet and tangy glaze, making it an ideal partner for the kale salad with its warm, fruity vinaigrette.

Similar Salad Recipes to Try

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Dive into the earthy flavors of roasted beets paired with creamy goat cheese. This salad is a delightful mix of textures and tastes, perfect for a light lunch or a stunning side dish.

Quinoa and Avocado Salad with Citrus Dressing: Experience a burst of freshness with this quinoa and avocado salad, drizzled with a zesty citrus dressing. It's a nutrient-packed dish that's both satisfying and invigorating.

Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing: Indulge in the sweet and savory combination of fresh spinach and juicy strawberries, topped with a delightful poppy seed dressing. This salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Warm Farro Salad with Roasted Vegetables: Savor the hearty goodness of warm farro combined with a medley of roasted vegetables. This salad is a comforting and wholesome dish that's perfect for any season.

Why trust this Kale Salad with Warm Cranberry Almond Vinaigrette Recipe:

This recipe combines the nutritional powerhouse kale with the sweet and tangy flavors of dried cranberries and red wine vinegar. The warm cranberry almond vinaigrette adds a delightful contrast to the crisp kale, while the blue cheese provides a creamy finish. The use of fresh ingredients like shallots and garlic ensures a burst of flavor in every bite. Trust this recipe for its balanced combination of textures and flavors, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

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FAQ:

Can I use a different type of vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?

Absolutely! You can substitute red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar. Each will give a slightly different flavor, but they'll all work well.

How do I massage the kale?

Just drizzle the olive oil and a pinch of salt over the kale, then use your hands to rub the leaves together for about a minute. This helps to break down the fibers and makes the kale more tender and easier to eat.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

You can, but fresh cranberries are quite tart. If you decide to use them, you might want to cook them down a bit with some extra honey to balance the tartness.

What can I use instead of blue cheese?

If you're not a fan of blue cheese, you can use feta, goat cheese, or even shredded Parmesan. Each will add a different flavor profile but will still be delicious.

How long will this salad keep in the fridge?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the kale might get a bit soggy, and the flavors will meld together more over time.