Save to Pinterest A vibrant, nutrient-packed salad featuring tender kale, roasted sweet potato, hearty black beans, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a flavorful side.
I first made this salad for a weekend lunch, wanting something filling yet refreshing. The massaged kale pairs so well with the sweet potato and creamy avocado, and the lime dressing brings it all together.
Ingredients
- Sweet potato: 1 large, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
- Kale: 1 large bunch (about 6 cups), stems removed and leaves chopped
- Red onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
- Avocado: 1, diced
- Black beans: 1 can (15 oz/425 g), drained and rinsed
- Extra-virgin olive oil: 3 tbsp
- Fresh lime juice: 2 tbsp (about 1 lime)
- Maple syrup or honey: 1 tbsp
- Dijon mustard: 1 tsp
- Ground cumin: ¼ tsp
- Sea salt: ½ tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: ¼ tsp
- Toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas): ¼ cup, optional
- Crumbled feta cheese: 2 tbsp, optional (omit for vegan)
Instructions
- Prepare sweet potato:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss diced sweet potato with 1 tablespoon olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and lightly browned. Let cool slightly.
- Massage the kale:
- While sweet potato roasts, place chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Massage the kale for 2–3 minutes with clean hands until it softens and darkens in color.
- Make the dressing:
- Whisk together lime juice, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, cumin, salt, pepper, and remaining olive oil in a small bowl.
- Combine the salad:
- Add black beans, roasted sweet potato, red onion, and avocado to the massaged kale. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.
- Add toppings and serve:
- Top with pumpkin seeds and feta cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Save to Pinterest This salad instantly became a favorite for our family dinners. Everyone loves customizing their bowl with preferred toppings, and it's often requested as a potluck dish.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, large mixing bowl, small bowl, whisk, knife, and cutting board.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy if using feta cheese. Gluten-free if all ingredients are checked. Contains seeds (pumpkin seeds).
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 340 calories, 14 g fat, 48 g carbohydrates, 9 g protein.
Save to Pinterest This salad is satisfying, colorful, and comes together in under an hour. Enjoy as a meal or share as a crowd-pleasing side.
Recipe FAQs
- → Why massage the kale?
Massaging kale softens its tough fibers, making the leaves tender and easier to eat while enhancing flavor absorption from the dressing.
- → Can I substitute black beans?
Yes, chickpeas or white beans work well as alternatives, maintaining the dish's protein and texture balance.
- → How do I roast the sweet potato?
Dice and toss sweet potato with olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
- → What does the lime dressing include?
The dressing combines fresh lime juice, maple syrup or honey, Dijon mustard, cumin, olive oil, salt, and pepper for a bright, tangy flavor.
- → How to keep avocado fresh in this bowl?
Add diced avocado just before serving to prevent browning and preserve its creamy texture and vibrant color.