Red Kale Salad Recipe With Orange Slices And Slivered Almonds

This Red Kale Salad with Orange Slices and Slivered Almonds is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, perfect for any occasion! The sweetness of the oranges balances the hearty red kale, while the slivered almonds add a wonderful crunch. With just a few ingredients and a simple lemon dressing, this vibrant salad is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, delicious dish in minutes.

Why You’ll Love Red Kale Salad With Orange Slices And Slivered Almonds

• This salad is packed with nutrients, thanks to kale, which is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. With oranges adding a vitamin C boost, it’s a delicious way to support your health.
• The combination of earthy kale with sweet oranges and crunchy almonds creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will make every bite enjoyable.
• It’s an easy-to-make recipe with only a few ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or for adding a healthy option to any meal.
• The light lemon and olive oil dressing enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them, making this salad both refreshing and satisfying.
• This salad is perfect for meal prep! The sturdy kale leaves hold up well even after dressing, so it stays fresh and tasty if made in advance.

This colorful festive salad is a delicious way to eat your kale!  Chopped-up kale leaves are tossed with the extra-virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice dressing, and topped with sweet orange slices and crunchy slivered almonds.  The strong leafy kale greens are mellowed out by the sweetness of the oranges, and the almonds add a delicious crispness to this healthy yummy salad!

I made this salad out of red kale, which is just one of the varieties of kale.  If you are wondering why the leaves on the photo are green as opposed to red, well, that’s what red kale looks like :)  It actually looks more red when the leaves are whole – it has dark green leaves with purplish red veins and red stems.  In the supermarket, when you see red kale next to green kale, you’ll know immediately which one is red.  Red and green kale taste exactly the same to my taste buds, so of course you can make this salad out of any type of kale :)

Ingredients For Red Kale Salad With Orange Slices And Slivered Almonds

• Red kale – Adds a hearty texture and earthy flavor to the salad; use any kale variety if red kale is unavailable.
• Slivered almonds – Provides a satisfying crunch; you can use plain or sugared almonds for added sweetness.
• Canned orange slices – Brings a burst of sweetness and juiciness, balancing the flavor of the kale.
• Extra-virgin olive oil – Adds richness to the dressing, complementing the lemon juice.
• Lemon – Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives a zesty brightness to the salad.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Red Kale Salad With Orange Slices And Slivered Almonds

• Food processor – Makes chopping the kale quick and easy, giving it a uniform texture.
• Knife – Essential for trimming the kale stems and veins.
• Large bowl – Perfect for tossing and massaging the kale with the dressing.
• Measuring cups – Ensures you get the right amount of almonds and olive oil for a balanced flavor.
• Small cup or bowl – Handy for mixing the lemon juice and olive oil dressing.

For the almond topping for this red kale salad, I used the recipe for toasted sugared slivered almonds that I posted earlier.   If you want to avoid extra sugar, you can just use plain slivered almonds.  But if you are making this salad for company and want a truly festive topping with sweet crunchy and addictive nuts, take the extra step of making the sugared almonds – they are so worth it!

You can serve this red kale salad with the almonds and orange slices on top, or you can mix them in.  The top photo has the toppings on top of the salad (so you can even barely see the kale), and the photo below has everything mixed together.  Now you can even see the red veins on the kale leaves :)

How To Make Red Kale Salad With Orange Slices And Slivered Almonds

• Start by washing the kale thoroughly and removing any stems and large veins for a softer texture.
• Use a food processor to finely chop the kale, which helps make it more enjoyable to eat.
• In a small bowl, combine freshly squeezed lemon juice with extra-virgin olive oil, whisking them together until blended.
• Place the chopped kale in a large bowl, pour the lemon-olive oil dressing over it, and use your hands to “massage” the kale until it softens.
• Add in the drained orange slices and slivered almonds, then toss everything together to evenly distribute the ingredients.
• Serve immediately for the freshest flavor, or refrigerate for later if you’re preparing it ahead.

If you think kale leaves are hard, wait till you try making it the right way.  To make kale softer, you need to squeeze the chopped kale with your hands really hard for several minutes after you add the dressing, in a similar motion to kneading the dough.  Don’t worry, the leaves won’t be mushy – the texture of kale after you squeeze it like this will be very similar to regular salad leaves that people are accustomed to.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled chicken, fried salmon, or any protein of your choice.
• For a festive presentation, layer the orange slices on top of the salad and sprinkle the almonds as a final garnish.
• Pair this kale salad with tomato soup or a slice of naan bread for a complete and balanced meal.
• If you’re hosting, serve it on a large platter so everyone can appreciate the vibrant colors of the red kale and oranges.
• For a holiday table, consider adding a few pomegranate seeds for an extra pop of color and a hint of tartness.

Tips For Success

When making this Red Kale Salad with Orange Slices and Slivered Almonds, keep these helpful tips in mind to ensure the best possible result:

• Massage the Kale: Kale leaves are naturally tough, so massaging them with the dressing is essential to soften the texture and make the salad more enjoyable. Use your hands to gently squeeze and work the kale for a few minutes until it feels tender. This process also allows the dressing to fully absorb into the leaves, adding more flavor to each bite.
• Chop Kale Finely: For the best texture, chop the kale leaves into small, even pieces. Using a food processor with a slicing blade makes this process quick and helps create a uniform texture, making each forkful easy to eat and well-coated in the dressing.
• Choose Fresh Citrus: The oranges bring a sweet, juicy contrast to the hearty kale. Using canned orange slices is convenient, but if you prefer fresher options, feel free to slice a fresh orange or mandarin. Fresh citrus offers a burst of natural sweetness and juiciness that complements the kale beautifully.
• Customize Your Almonds: Slivered almonds add a delightful crunch, and you can use them plain or toasted. For an extra festive touch, consider making sugared almonds by lightly coating them in sugar and toasting until caramelized. This sweet crunch makes the salad feel special and adds a touch of sweetness to each bite.
• Adjust the Dressing to Taste: Start with the recommended amount of lemon juice and olive oil, but feel free to adjust the quantities to your preference. If you enjoy a more tangy salad, add a bit more lemon juice; for a richer flavor, a little extra olive oil will do the trick. Whisk them well to blend and taste before adding to the kale.
• Prepare in Advance: Kale holds up well in the fridge, even after it’s been dressed, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Simply prepare the salad a few hours before serving and refrigerate it. The flavors actually deepen as the salad sits, so it’s perfect for make-ahead meals or entertaining.

Variations And Substitutions

• Different Types of Kale: While this recipe calls for red kale, feel free to use any variety you have on hand, like curly kale or lacinato kale (also known as dinosaur kale). Each type offers a slightly different texture and flavor, but they all work beautifully in this salad. If using a tougher kale, simply massage it a bit longer to achieve a softer texture.
• Citrus Swaps: Oranges add a delightful sweetness, but you can easily substitute them with other citrus fruits. Try mandarin segments, blood oranges for a beautiful color contrast, or even grapefruit slices for a tangier twist. Fresh citrus provides a juicier bite, but canned options work just as well if you’re in a pinch.
• Nut Variations: If almonds aren’t your preference, you can use other nuts or seeds. Walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds add a great crunch and can be used plain, toasted, or even candied. For a nut-free option, try sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar texture with a slightly different flavor profile.
• Sweet Additions: To add even more natural sweetness, consider including dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots. These mix well with the orange flavor and give the salad an extra layer of flavor, along with a bit of chewiness that contrasts with the crunchy almonds.
• Add Cheese: For those who enjoy cheese, try adding a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese. These tangy, creamy cheeses balance the sweetness of the oranges and add richness to the salad. The addition makes this salad even more satisfying, perfect for a light main dish.
• Alternative Dressings: The simple lemon and olive oil dressing keeps this salad light, but you can experiment with a slightly different dressing if you prefer. A honey mustard vinaigrette, balsamic dressing, or even a citrus vinaigrette made with orange juice, honey, and a dash of Dijon mustard will add a unique twist. This change can transform the flavor profile without altering the core ingredients.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: To keep this salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Kale is hearty and holds up well, even after it’s been dressed, making it ideal for next-day enjoyment. This salad will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed within the first day for optimal texture.
• Reheating: This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat it. If you’d like to revive the flavors after storing, add a small drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. This refreshes the kale and brightens the flavors, making it taste like it was just prepared.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use green kale instead of red kale in this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Green kale works just as well in this recipe. While red kale has a slightly different color and texture, the taste is very similar. Using green kale will still give you a delicious and nutritious salad.

How long can I keep this salad in the refrigerator?

This red kale salad stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The hearty kale leaves hold up well even after being dressed, making it a great option for meal prep. For the best texture, try to enjoy it within the first day.

Can I prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and assemble them later?

Yes, you can prepare parts of this salad in advance! Chop the kale, slice the oranges (if using fresh), and make the dressing ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to serve, simply toss them together and add the slivered almonds.

Is it necessary to massage the kale?

Massaging the kale is an important step as it helps soften the tough kale leaves, making the salad more enjoyable to eat. When you massage the kale with the dressing, it breaks down the fibers and creates a tender texture that many people prefer over raw, untreated kale.

Can I add protein to make this a main course?

Yes, adding protein is a great idea if you’d like to make this salad a more filling main course. Grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or even a sprinkle of quinoa or lentils will add protein and make this salad more satisfying.

What can I use instead of almonds if I have a nut allergy?

If you need a nut-free option, try using seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. They still add a nice crunch without the need for nuts. These seeds work well in salads and offer a similar texture contrast to the kale and oranges.

Can I use a different type of dressing?

Absolutely! While the lemon and olive oil dressing is light and refreshing, you can experiment with other dressings. A honey mustard vinaigrette, balsamic glaze, or even a light citrus vinaigrette can add a new twist to the flavors of this salad.

Other Easy Kale Recipes

Pressure Cooker Kale Recipe: Tender and flavorful, this pressure cooker kale recipe is a quick, nutritious way to enjoy your greens.

Healthy Kale Chips in the Air Fryer: These air fryer kale chips are a crispy, healthy snack that’s ready in minutes and packed with flavor.

Garlic Sesame Sautéed Kale with Spice: This garlic sesame sautéed kale has a spicy kick and a savory flavor, making it a perfect side dish.

Cranberry Pine Nut Kale Salad: Fresh kale, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pine nuts come together in this refreshing, colorful salad.

Oven-Baked Kale Chips – Crispy & Nutritious!: Oven-baked to perfection, these kale chips are a healthy, crispy treat that satisfies your snack cravings.

Kale Salad with Raisins and Sunflower Seeds: This kale salad pairs sweet raisins with nutty sunflower seeds for a delicious, balanced bite.

Bacon Sautéed Kale Side Dish: Smoky bacon and tender kale make this sautéed dish a savory, comforting side.

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Red Kale Salad Recipe With Orange Slices And Almonds

If you are looking to get more kale into your diet, this salad is a delicious way to eat your kale! Sweet orange slices and crunchy almonds are a perfect complement to leafy greens!

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Total Time15 minutes mins

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: kale almond salad, orange kale salad, Red kale salad

Cooking Method: No-Cook

Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegan

Author: MelanieCooks.com

Ingredients

• 1 bunch of red kale or you can use other kinds of kale
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds plain or sugared - see <a href="https://www.melaniecooks.com/toasted-sugared-slivered-almonds-recipe/7559/">how to make toasted sugared slivered almonds</a>
• 1 can orange slices drained
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 lemon

Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)

• Food Processor
• Measuring Cups
• Knife
• Large bowl

Instructions

• Wash the kale leaves, then cut off and discard the stems and large veins.
• Fit the food processor with a top round slicing disk, and use the food processor to slice the kale.
• Squeeze the lemon into a cup.
• Add the olive oil to the lemon juice and whisk with a fork until combined.
• Put the chopped kale in a large bowl and pour dressing over it.
• Toss the kale with your hands and "massage" it for several minutes until softened.
• Add the orange slices and slivered almonds and toss.

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