15 Kale Salad Recipes That Will Make You Love Greens Again

Kale is one of those leafy greens that often gets overlooked, but when prepared right, it transforms into fresh salad recipes that are nutrient-packed, flavorful, and versatile.

These easy kale salad recipes combine tender, massaged greens with fruits, nuts, cheeses, and bright dressings to create meals perfect for health-conscious eaters or anyone looking to try exciting recipes to try at home.

From citrusy classics to seasonal twists, these salads are ideal for meal prep, sides, or light mains.

1. Lemon-Garlic Kale Salad

This salad has earned a legendary status for a reason. It’s tangy, crunchy, and full of flavor, which makes kale truly enjoyable. Toasted almonds add satisfying texture, while a lemon-garlic dressing softens the greens naturally. It’s a great example of a delicious kale salad that holds up well, perfect for prepping ahead of time.

Ingredients:

• 10–12 oz kale (ribbons, stems removed)
• 1½ cups grated Parmesan
• 2 cups toasted almonds
• ⅓ cup lemon juice
• 1½ cups olive oil
• 4 crushed garlic cloves
• 1½ tsp salt

Instructions:

Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and garlic in a bowl and steep for a few minutes. Ribbon the kale and toss with the dressing, removing the garlic pieces. Add Parmesan and almonds, then let sit for 1 hour to allow the kale to soften. Serve as a healthy summer salad recipe that’s both tangy and satisfying.

Gardening Tip: Use freshly picked kale for maximum flavor and texture.

2. Simple Kale Salad

A straightforward, sweet-savory salad that’s a hit for both beginners and seasoned kale lovers. Dried cranberries balance the earthy flavor of kale, and Parmesan adds a salty touch. This recipe is perfect for those looking for best salad recipes that are fast, flexible, and family-friendly.

Ingredients:

• 2 bunches chopped kale
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• ⅓ cup almonds
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• 1–2 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Massage chopped kale with olive oil and salt to soften the leaves. Whisk lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, mustard, and honey to make the dressing. Toss kale with the dressing, add Parmesan, almonds, and cranberries. Serve immediately or let sit for 15 minutes to enhance flavors. A go-to easy kale salad for meal prep or weekday lunches.

Gardening Tip: Tear kale leaves by hand to avoid bruising and keep them vibrant.

3. The Best Shredded Kale Salad

This vegan-friendly salad is packed with texture and flavor. Toasted pecans mixed with nutritional yeast mimic Parmesan, making it creamy without dairy. Cranberries bring sweetness, while lemon-garlic dressing softens the kale. It’s ideal as a fresh salad recipe that works as a side or main for plant-based eaters.

Ingredients:

• 8–9 cups finely shredded kale
• ½ cup toasted pecans
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp dried cranberries
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

Process pecans with nutritional yeast, olive oil, and salt for a vegan “Parmesan” topping. Massage kale with lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic for 2–3 minutes to tenderize. Toss with cranberries and pecan mixture, and let sit 30–60 minutes. Serve as a nutrient-dense kale salad that’s hearty and satisfying.

Gardening Tip: Baby kale leaves are perfect here for a milder taste and quicker massaging.

4. Kale Salad With Apples and Cheddar

This fruity twist adds sweetness and seasonal charm. Crisp apples balance the earthy kale, while Cheddar and Parmesan provide creamy, savory notes. It’s a delicious kale salad that works well in autumn or anytime you want a bright, crunchy lunch.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups slivered kale
• 1 diced apple
• 2 tbsp almonds
• 1 oz diced Cheddar
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 5 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove pureed garlic
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Toss kale with lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic. Add apple, almonds, Cheddar, and Parmesan. Let the salad rest 15 minutes to soften kale. Serve as a vibrant healthy summer salad recipe perfect for a side or light main.

Gardening Tip: Use crisp, sweet apples and freshly picked kale for best flavor.

5. The Kale Salad That Started It All

This classic brought raw kale salads into the spotlight. Pecorino Romano and lemon dressing soften the leaves while breadcrumbs add crunch. A hint of chile flakes gives it a subtle kick. It’s a timeless easy kale salad with a simple, tangy profile.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch chiffonade kale
• ¼ cup Pecorino Romano
• ¼ cup bread crumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ⅛ tsp chile flakes
• 1 clove minced garlic
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Dress the kale with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and chile flakes. Sprinkle Pecorino and bread crumbs over the top. Let sit 5 minutes to allow the kale to soften. Serve as a fresh salad recipe that’s iconic and easy to prepare.

Gardening Tip: Harvest tender kale leaves from the top of the plant to reduce bitterness.

6. Easy Kale Salad

A quick, minimalist salad that’s perfect for everyday meals. Only five ingredients transform tough kale into a tender, flavorful dish. This is a go-to easy kale salad for beginners or anyone pressed for time.

Ingredients:

• 5 oz chopped kale
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• ⅓ cup toasted almonds
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Massage chopped kale with olive oil and salt for 2–3 minutes to soften. Toss with lemon juice, Parmesan, and toasted almonds. Season with pepper to taste. Serve immediately or let sit briefly to let flavors meld. This fresh salad recipe is ideal for meal prep or a simple side.

Gardening Tip: Picking kale early in the morning ensures crisp, flavorful leaves.

7. Avocado Kale Salad

A veggie-packed salad that’s as vibrant as it is nutritious. Roasted carrots and beets, avocado, and cranberries combine with massaged kale for a colorful delicious kale dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch kale, chopped
• ½ cup roasted carrots, grated
• ½ cup roasted beet, grated
• ½ avocado, diced
• 2 tbsp cranberries
• ¼ cup pepitas
• ½ cup roasted chickpeas
• 2–3 tbsp lemon-ginger dressing
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Massage kale with a pinch of salt and lemon juice for 2 minutes. Add roasted vegetables, avocado, cranberries, pepitas, and chickpeas. Drizzle with lemon-ginger dressing and toss thoroughly. Serve as a vibrant healthy summer salad recipe that’s hearty and visually appealing.

Gardening Tip: Use leftover roasted root vegetables from your garden to add flavor and reduce waste.

8. The Kale Salad

A modern take on a classic kale salad, with garlicky depth and crunchy panko for texture. Ideal as a best salad recipe for side dishes or light lunches.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups chopped kale
• ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs, toasted
• 1 cup grated Parmesan
• ½ cup olive oil
• ⅓ cup lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Massage kale with a pinch of salt and lemon juice. Whisk olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan for the dressing, then toss with kale and parsley. Top with toasted panko for a satisfying crunch. Serve as a fresh salad recipe that’s both crisp and flavorful.

Gardening Tip: Massaging kale breaks down fibers and releases a mild sweetness.

9. Everyday Kale Salad

A hearty, make-ahead salad that balances indulgence with nutrition. Pancetta adds savoriness while apples and cranberries provide sweetness. This easy kale salad is perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz kale, chopped
• 2 slices cooked pancetta (optional)
• ¼ cup almonds
• ¼ cup cranberries
• ¼ cup diced apple
• ¼ cup chopped onion
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Massage kale with salt to soften. Toss with olive oil, lemon, and honey. Add almonds, cranberries, apple, onion, and pancetta if using. Let sit 10–15 minutes for flavors to meld. Serve as a healthy summer salad recipe that bridges healthy and indulgent.

Gardening Tip: Choose smaller kale leaves for faster softening.

10. Kale Salad With Parmesan and Pine Nuts

Elevated with briny capers and pine nuts, this salad is sophisticated yet simple. A perfect delicious kale salad for those looking to impress while staying healthy.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz chopped kale
• ½ cup Parmesan
• ⅓ cup pine nuts, toasted
• ¼ cup capers
• 4 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp vinegar
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Massage kale with 1 tbsp lemon juice and a pinch of salt for 2–3 minutes. Whisk remaining lemon juice, olive oil, and vinegar for the dressing. Toss kale with Parmesan, pine nuts, and capers. Serve as a fresh salad recipe with bright flavors and crunchy textures.

Gardening Tip: Using pine nuts lightly toasted enhances their nutty aroma and flavor.

11. Kale Salad with Apples, Cranberries, and Pecans

This salad strikes the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a nutty crunch from pecans. It’s a delicious kale option for fall or anytime you want a refreshing, nutrient-packed salad.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch kale, chopped
• 1 apple, diced
• 2 tbsp dried cranberries
• ¼ cup pecans, toasted
• Optional: radishes, celery
• 2–3 tbsp lemon-based vinaigrette
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Massage the kale with a pinch of salt and vinaigrette for 2 minutes to tenderize. Add diced apple, cranberries, and pecans, tossing gently to combine. Optional radishes or celery add crunch. Serve as a healthy summer salad recipe that’s naturally colorful and perfect for meal prep.

Gardening Tip: Use freshly picked kale and apples for the most vibrant flavor.

12. Southwestern Kale Power Salad

A hearty, filling salad packed with grains, root vegetables, and creamy avocado dressing. This easy kale salad doubles as a light main or satisfying lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch kale, chopped
• ½ cup cooked quinoa
• ½ cup roasted sweet potato, cubed
• ½ avocado, mashed for dressing
• 1–2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Massage the kale with a pinch of salt for 2–3 minutes. Toss with roasted sweet potato and cooked quinoa. Mash avocado with lemon juice to create a creamy dressing, then drizzle over the salad. Mix thoroughly and serve as a fresh salad recipe with balanced flavors and filling textures.

Gardening Tip: Roast leftover root vegetables from your garden for a nutrient-rich addition.

13. Greek Kale Salad with Creamy Tahini Dressing

Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, this salad combines massaged kale with a rich tahini-based dressing for a savory, umami-packed delicious kale salad.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch kale, chopped
• 2 tbsp Parmesan (or alternative)
• 2 tbsp tahini
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Massage the kale with a pinch of salt and lemon juice for 2 minutes to soften. Whisk tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice to make a creamy dressing. Toss the kale with dressing and sprinkle Parmesan on top. Serve as a healthy summer salad recipe that’s flavorful and satisfying.

Gardening Tip: Fresh herbs from your garden, like parsley or oregano, can elevate this salad beautifully.

14. Roasted Butternut Squash Kale Salad

A seasonal salad with roasted squash, chickpeas, and cranberries. This easy kale salad is warm, hearty, and packed with vitamins, perfect for fall and winter menus.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch kale, chopped
• ½ cup roasted butternut squash, cubed
• ½ cup roasted chickpeas
• 2 tbsp dried cranberries
• 2–3 tbsp lemon or balsamic vinaigrette
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Massage kale with a pinch of salt for 2–3 minutes. Add roasted squash, chickpeas, and cranberries. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss to coat evenly. Serve as a fresh salad recipe that is both comforting and nutrient-rich.

Gardening Tip: Roast squash from your garden for extra sweetness and natural flavor.

15. Everyday Kale Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

A versatile salad with bright, tangy flavors that bring out the best in kale. Perfect for best salad recipes that are quick, refreshing, and suitable for any meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch kale, chopped
• 1 orange or grapefruit, segmented
• ¼ cup toasted almonds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1–2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Massage the kale with a pinch of salt and lemon juice to soften the leaves. Toss with citrus segments and almonds. Drizzle olive oil on top, mix thoroughly, and serve as a delicious kale salad that’s refreshing, bright, and easy to prepare.

Gardening Tip: Citrus pairs beautifully with fresh kale, balancing its earthy flavor.