A happy life is a healthy life. Feeding your body foods that provide optimal nourishment to encourage the optimal function of all systems and organs is truly a gift. When you eat the right foods, you feel a whole lot better. That doesn’t mean you cannot cheat a little here and there and indulge in some unhealthy options. If you find that you have been eating a little unhealthier, though, switch it up and make yourself a refreshing raw salad like this kale cranberry almond salad. It contains fiber, protein, magnesium, vitamin C, antioxidants, and other beneficial vitamins and minerals.
Kale is a superfood, but it’s not the only ingredient that brings a super nutritional profile to this salad. As the other leafy green base, you have romaine lettuce, which is an excellent source of vitamin K, folate, beta-carotene, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium. The avocado also provides magnesium and potassium, in addition to healthy fats, folate, fiber, and more. Along with their low sodium levels, avocados do not contain any cholesterol, making them great heart-healthy foods.
When you enjoy this kale salad, not only will you feel good about yourself, but you’ll also get to enjoy varying textures and flavors. Although the kale can be slightly bitter, you don’t taste it because the dried cranberries offer sweetness and almonds provide nuttiness. Avocados don’t offer specific flavor, but they do offer a textural difference from all the crunch in this salad. Finally, you get the zesty dressing that also provides some creaminess, thanks to the tahini.
- Prep Time:15m
- Total Time:15m
- Serves: 3 servings
- Category: Full Body Cleanse Approved, Salads & Dressings, Raw, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 3 c kale, chopped and thick stems removed
- 3 c romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/4 c dried cranberries
- 1 avocado, peeled, and chopped
- 1/4 c raw almonds, slivered or diced
For the Dressing
- 3 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tbsp. raw tahini
- 2 tbsp. grade A maple syrup
- 2 tsp. olive oil
- dash of paprika
- pinch of sea salt
- black pepper, to taste
Instructions
For the Salad
- Make sure to rinse that kale and massage as you rinse. That will help break down the fibrous texture. And make sure to get rid of those thick center stems!
- Add the kale and the rest of the ingredients to a large salad bowl and toss gently to combine. Set aside while you prepare the dressing.
For the Dressing
- Add all of the ingredients to a small bowl and whisk to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Enjoy immediately.