![To make this kale salad with roasted beets, gather these fresh ingredients: - 4 cups kale, stems removed and chopped into bite-sized pieces - 2 medium-sized beets, peeled and cut into small cubes - 1 medium carrot, finely grated - 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled into small pieces - 1/4 cup walnuts, lightly toasted and roughly chopped - 1/4 cup dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness These ingredients create a mix of flavors and textures. The kale provides a sturdy base, while the beets add a sweet earthiness. The crunch from walnuts and the creaminess of feta enhance the salad's appeal. For the dressing, you will need: - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar - 1 teaspoon honey - Salt and pepper to taste This dressing brings everything together. The olive oil adds richness, while the balsamic vinegar gives a nice tang. Honey balances the flavors, making each bite delightful. This salad is not just tasty; it's also good for you. - Kale is rich in vitamins A, C, and K. It supports eye health and boosts the immune system. - Beets contain antioxidants and help improve blood flow. They are great for heart health and can lower blood pressure. Eating this salad often can improve your health while keeping meals exciting. Feel free to explore the [Full Recipe] for more details! To roast the beets, first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the beets cook evenly. Next, take two medium-sized beets. Peel them and cut them into small cubes. Spread these cubes on a baking sheet. Drizzle one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over them. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper on top. Roast the beets in the oven for 25-30 minutes. They should be tender when you pierce them with a fork. Remember to stir the beets halfway through cooking. Once they are done, take them out and let them cool. Now, let’s mix up the salad. In a large mixing bowl, add four cups of chopped kale. Make sure to remove the tough stems first. Next, grate one medium carrot and add it to the bowl. Then, toss in the roasted beet pieces you just made. Crumble half a cup of feta cheese into the bowl. Add a quarter cup of roughly chopped walnuts and a quarter cup of dried cranberries for sweetness. These ingredients give the salad great color and texture. To make the salad dressing, take a small bowl. Whisk together three tablespoons of olive oil, two tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, and one teaspoon of honey. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. Make sure everything is well mixed and emulsified. This dressing enhances all the fresh flavors in your salad. Drizzle it over your kale and beet mixture. Gently toss the salad to coat all the ingredients. Let it sit for about ten minutes. This waiting time allows the kale to soften and the flavors to blend perfectly. Roasting beets brings out their natural sweetness. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut your beets into small cubes for even cooking. Spread them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle salt and pepper. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Stir them halfway through for a nice, even roast. Check if they are tender with a fork. Let them cool before adding to your salad. This method makes beets bright and tasty. Balancing flavors is key in any salad. The sweetness of roasted beets pairs well with the saltiness of feta. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for tang. Honey can help balance these flavors. If the salad tastes flat, add more salt or pepper. You can also toss in some lemon juice for extra brightness. Taste as you go. Adjust until you find your perfect mix. This way, each bite will be full of flavor. A beautiful salad can make a meal special. Use a large wooden bowl for a rustic look. Top the salad with extra feta and walnuts for texture. For individual servings, use clear glasses or small bowls. Garnish with a lemon slice on the side. This adds color and a zesty touch. You can also layer the ingredients for a stunning display. Eye-catching salads invite everyone to dig in. Make your salad not just tasty but also a feast for the eyes. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. {{image_4}} If you want to change the cheese in your salad, you have options. You can try goat cheese for a tangy twist. Creamy burrata adds a rich texture. For a dairy-free choice, use crumbled tofu. Each cheese gives a unique flavor to your salad. Want to make your salad more filling? Try adding proteins! Grilled chicken works great for a hearty dish. If you prefer plant-based options, chickpeas or black beans are fantastic. Simply toss them in with the other ingredients for a tasty boost. To make a vegan version of this salad, skip the feta cheese. Instead, add avocado for creaminess. You can also include a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. This way, you keep the taste vibrant and fresh. For the complete recipe, check [Full Recipe]. To keep leftover kale salad fresh, store it in a sealed container. You can use glass or plastic containers, but make sure they are airtight. Place the salad in the fridge as soon as possible. This helps keep the ingredients crisp. If you can, keep the dressing separate. This way, the kale will not get soggy. The salad can last in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. However, the texture will change over time. The kale may wilt, and the beets can release moisture. For the best taste, enjoy it within the first two days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. Freezing the salad is not recommended. The kale and other veggies will lose their crispness. While the beets may hold up, the overall texture will not be good after freezing. If you want to save beets, you can freeze them alone. Just roast and cool them first before freezing. Use them later in other dishes or salads. For the full recipe, check the linked instructions. Yes, you can use other leafy greens. Spinach, arugula, or Swiss chard work well. Each green has a different taste. Spinach is mild, while arugula adds spice. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite flavor. If fresh beets are hard to find, use canned or pre-cooked beets. These options save time and still taste great. Just drain and rinse them before adding to your salad. This keeps the flavors fresh and vibrant. To make this salad gluten-free, ensure all ingredients are safe. Check the labels on your feta cheese and dressing. Most olive oils and vinegars are gluten-free, but it's good to double-check. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty dish. For the full recipe, visit the cooking section. This blog post shared how to make a great salad with fresh, healthy ingredients. You learned about vibrant kale, beets, and the right dressing to tie it all together. I provided steps to roast beets, assemble your salad, and even tips for storing leftovers. Lastly, you can customize the salad to suit your taste or dietary needs. This dish is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy your tasty salad, and don’t be afraid to get creative!](https://meltedrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/3d718c5d-395a-41f5-8678-ecdb362b0e85-300x300.webp)
Kale Salad with Roasted Beets
Elevate your meal with this vibrant kale salad featuring roasted beets! Discover a rainbow of flavors with fresh kale, sweet roasted beets, crunchy walnuts, and creamy feta, all drizzled with a homemade dressing that balances it perfectly. This nutritious dish is not just a feast for the eyes but also a healthy way to boost your energy. Click through to explore the full recipe and make this colorful salad a part of your dining experience!