14+ Kale Salad Harvest Recipes

Imagine the crispness of fresh kale, the sweetness of ripe fruits, and the crunch of nuts coming together in a symphony of flavors. These kale salad harvest recipes are so much more than a side dish; they’re the centerpiece of a memorable meal.

Autumn Apple Kale Salad

Fall Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Kale Salad

Fall Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Kale Salad from Half Baked Harvest

Rating: 4.3. Total Time: 30 min.

Autumn Kale Apple and Quinoa Salad

Autumn Kale Apple and Quinoa Salad from Cooking Classy

Rating: 5. Total Time: 35 min.

Autumn Kale and Apple Salad

Autumn Kale and Apple Salad from Budget Bytes

Rating: 5. Total Time: 25 min.

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This salad brings together the tartness of freshly picked apples and the earthy undertones of kale, creating a delightful balance that will have you reaching for seconds. It’s like biting into a fresh, crisp autumn day.

What makes this salad special is the unique combination of flavors. The sweet, juicy apples contrast perfectly with the slightly bitter kale, while the addition of sharp cheddar cheese adds a creamy texture that makes the entire dish feel indulgent. Toss in a handful of toasted pecans for a nutty crunch and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and flavor.

Drizzle with a honey mustard vinaigrette that ties everything together with its sweet and tangy notes. This salad is perfect for a cozy fall lunch or as a show-stopping side at your next gathering. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that highlights the best of seasonal produce.

Cranberry Walnut Kale Salad

Cranberry Walnut Kale Salad

Cranberry Walnut Kale Salad from Served From Scratch

Rating: 5. Total Time: 10 min.

Kale Salad with Cranberries

Kale Salad with Cranberries from Hello Little Home

Rating: 5. Total Time: 20 min.

Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta

Kale Salad with Cranberry, Walnut and Feta from She's Not Cookin'

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 10 min.

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This salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors that dance on your taste buds. With dried cranberries and crunchy walnuts, each bite offers a sweet and nutty surprise hidden within the tender kale leaves.

The real star of this dish is its versatility. While the cranberries bring a hint of sweetness, the walnuts provide a delightful crunch. The kale, massaged with olive oil and a pinch of salt, softens to a perfect texture that absorbs the tart balsamic vinaigrette brilliantly. This salad is not just healthy but also incredibly satisfying.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a complement to your dinner, this salad won’t disappoint. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good about what you’re eating while still being totally delicious. Plus, it stores well, making it a great option for meal prep.

Harvest Butternut Squash and Kale Salad

Butternut Squash Kale Salad

Butternut Squash Kale Salad from How Sweet Eats

Rating: 5. Total Time: 40 min.

Fall Harvest Salad with Butternut Squash and Apple

Fall Harvest Salad with Butternut Squash and Apple from Ahead of Thyme

Rating: 5. Total Time: 45 min.

Autumn Kale & Butternut Squash Salad

Autumn Kale & Butternut Squash Salad from A Simple Palate

Total Time: 35 min.

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Experience the warmth of roasted butternut squash paired with the fresh, leafy goodness of kale in this hearty salad. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day.

The roasted butternut squash, caramelized to perfection, adds a rich, sweet flavor that contrasts beautifully with the slightly bitter kale. A sprinkle of feta cheese adds a salty, creamy element that ties the dish together. But what really elevates this salad is the addition of a zesty lemon tahini dressing that adds a creamy, nutty finish.

This salad is perfect for those who want something substantial yet healthy. It’s filling enough to be a meal on its own, yet light enough to serve as a side. Every bite is a reminder of why fall is such a beloved season for food lovers.

Pear and Gorgonzola Kale Salad

Pear blue cheese kale salad

Pear blue cheese kale salad from Electric Blue Food

Rating: 4.7. Total Time: 20 min.

Pear & Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Walnuts

Pear & Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Walnuts from Kalefornia Kravings

Total Time: 20 min.

Pear Salad with Candied Walnuts

Pear Salad with Candied Walnuts from Feel Good Foodie

Rating: 5. Total Time: 10 min.

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Sweet, juicy pears and creamy Gorgonzola come together in this salad to create a flavor profile that is both sophisticated and comforting. It’s a salad that feels like a treat.

The combination of ripe pears and tangy Gorgonzola cheese is nothing short of genius. The sweetness of the pears complements the bold, creamy flavor of the cheese, while the kale provides a hearty base that holds up well to the robust flavors. Toss in some candied pecans for added sweetness and crunch, and you’ve got yourself a salad that’s perfect for any occasion.

A light balsamic reduction dressing enhances the flavors without overpowering them, making every bite a balanced experience. This salad is sure to impress at your next dinner party, or simply serve it as a special treat for yourself.

Maple Dijon Kale Salad

Everyday Kale and Apple Salad with Maple-Mustard Dressing

Everyday Kale and Apple Salad with Maple-Mustard Dressing from The Floating Kitchen

Total Time: 20 min.

Warm Kale Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing

Warm Kale Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing from Physical Kitchness

Rating: 5.

Kale and Apple Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette

Kale and Apple Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette from Casual Foodist

Rating: 5. Total Time: 10 min.

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This salad combines the sweet, earthy notes of maple syrup with the sharp, tangy flavor of Dijon mustard, creating a dressing that’s perfect for kale. It’s a celebration of flavors in every bite.

The magic of this salad lies in its simplicity. The kale is massaged with a touch of olive oil, which makes it tender and ready to absorb the delicious maple Dijon dressing. Add in some roasted pumpkin seeds for an irresistible crunch and thinly sliced red onions for a bit of bite. The result is a salad that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

This dish is perfect for those who appreciate the understated elegance of good, wholesome ingredients. It’s a versatile salad that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal. With its unique flavor profile, it’s a salad that both surprises and delights.

Pro Tricks for Amazing Kale Salad Harvest Recipes

Harvest Kale & Roasted Squash Salad from The Sassy Dietitian

Total Time: 40 min.

Harvest Apple Kale Salad from One Lovely Life

Rating: 5.

Really Good Kale + Butternut Squash Fall Salad from Unpeeled Journal

Rating: 4.9.

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Maximize Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Always opt for the freshest kale available for your salads. Fresh kale not only tastes better but also holds its texture and nutritional value longer. Pair it with seasonal fruits and vegetables for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Master the Art of Massaging Kale

Massaging kale with a bit of olive oil and salt can transform its texture from tough to tender. This simple step helps break down the fibers in the kale, making it more palatable and easier to digest, while also enhancing its flavor.

Don’t Skimp on the Dressing

A great salad is often made by its dressing. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different dressings to find what works best with your ingredients. A well-balanced dressing can elevate the entire dish, making it unforgettable.