Citrus Kale Salad (With Orange Dijon Dressing)

Written By Katie Guerra

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

What I Love About This Recipe

This kale salad has quietly become one of my most-made meals lately. It’s the kind of recipe you throw together without measuring because it just works. It’s fresh, hearty, and bright, with a balance of savory, sweet, and citrusy flavors that somehow feels both nourishing and a little special.

The inspiration came from a meal we had while on vacation in Puerto Rico. It was one of those simple meals that was beautiful and delicious. The secret to this salad is very finely chopped kale. The dressing clings to the curls in the kale leaves for a slightly sweet flavor. This version is my at-home homage to that experience, adapted to ingredients I almost always have on hand.

Why This Salad Works So Well

  • Finely chopped kale makes all the difference. It softens the texture, absorbs the dressing beautifully, and turns kale into something craveable rather than chewy.

  • Parmesan cheese adds umami and richness.

  • Chopped nuts bring crunch and healthy fats.

  • Dried cranberries add just enough sweetness to balance the citrus.

  • Fresh orange juice vinaigrette ties everything together with brightness and warmth.

It’s sturdy enough to hold up in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep, yet fresh enough to serve to guests.

Health Benefits: Kale + Citrus Power Combo

🌿 Kale

Kale is one of the most nutrient-dense leafy greens you can eat:

  • High in vitamins A, C, and K

  • Rich in antioxidants that help combat inflammation

  • Supports digestive health with fiber

  • Contains plant compounds linked to heart and immune health

Finely chopping kale not only improves texture—it can also make it easier to digest.

🍊 Citrus (Fresh Orange Juice)

Fresh orange juice in the dressing does more than add flavor:

  • Packed with vitamin C, supporting immune health

  • Helps improve iron absorption from plant foods like kale

  • Adds natural sweetness without refined sugar

  • Brightens flavors, making healthy foods more enjoyable (and repeatable!)

Citrus Kale Salad Recipe

Prep: 15 minutes Makes: 4 servings

Ingredients

Salad

  • One bunch of fresh kale, the kind with the curly leaves works best

  • 1 cup of dried cranberries

  • 3/4 cup of finely grated parmesan

  • 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (walnuts and pecans are great, can also use cashews)

Dressing

  • Juice of one orange

  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon of dijon mustard

  • 2 tablespoons of mayo (I use Veganese)

  • 1 tablespoon of honey (or agave or maple syrup)

  • Salt and pepper to tase

Instructions

  1. Remove large main stem from kale pieces

  2. Chop kale in as finely as you can, the secret to this salad if a very fine chop

  3. Chop nuts

  4. Grate parmesan cheese

  5. Add dried cranberries

  6. Mix ingredients for dressing

  7. Combine kale, nuts, parmesan, dried cranberries, and dressing

  8. If you have the time, let the salad sit for 15 minutes to allow dressing to soak into the kale. This salad gets better with time, so it’s also perfect for meal prep.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 377

  • Protein: 9 g

  • Carbs: 37 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Fat: 22 g

Tips & Variations

  • Use candied nuts for a sweeter salad

  • Add grilled chicken, smoked salmon, or chickpeas to make it a full meal

  • Swap oranges for lemon or grapefruit juice for a seasonal twist

Shop The Pantry Staples in this Recipe

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

Katie Guerra
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