Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing

If you’re looking for a vibrant and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than this Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing! This salad is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavors and colors. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to because it brings people together—whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering.

What makes this salad even more special is the combination of roasted sweet potatoes and crispy chickpeas, paired with the freshness of kale and herbs. Toss in a creamy honey mustard dressing, and you have yourself a delightful meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together in about an hour, making it a breeze for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors and textures, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can roast the sweet potatoes and chickpeas ahead of time, making meal prep a snap.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or grains!
• Deliciously Healthy: A nourishing dish that’s both filling and packed with nutrients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring this delicious salad to life! Each element adds its own unique flavor and texture, creating a wonderful medley that you’ll want to enjoy again and again.

For the Salad

• 2 sweet potatoes, cut into matchsticks
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and patted dry
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1-2 teaspoons chipotle chili powder
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 5-6 cups shredded kale
• 1 cup mixed herbs: basil, dill, parsley
• 2 Persian cucumbers, chopped
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon stone ground mustard
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons sparkling grape juice or apple cider vinegar

Variations

This Sweet Potato Kale Salad is super flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or what flavors you adore. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add some crunch: Toss in some roasted nuts or seeds for added texture.
• Change up the greens: Spinach or arugula can be great alternatives to kale.
• Boost the protein: Add grilled chicken, quinoa, or your favorite plant-based protein.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat!

How to Make Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes and Chickpeas

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet, combine the sweet potatoes, chickpeas, olive oil, sesame seeds, chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss everything well to ensure each piece is coated in the spices. Roasting them not only enhances their flavors but also gives them a lovely crispiness. Bake for 20 minutes, toss everything around again, then bake for another 20 minutes until the chickpeas are golden brown and crunchy while the sweet potatoes become tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

While your sweet potatoes and chickpeas are roasting away in the oven, grab a large salad bowl. Combine the shredded kale with your mixed herbs and chopped cucumbers. The freshness of these ingredients will complement the roasted elements beautifully!

Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a glass jar or bowl, combine all dressing ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, dijon mustard, stone ground mustard, honey, tahini, lemon juice, and sparkling grape juice (or apple cider vinegar). Whisk until smooth—this dressing ties all flavors together wonderfully! Taste it first; adjust salt and pepper as needed. Drizzling this creamy goodness over your salad will elevate it even more.

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

Once your sweet potatoes and chickpeas are perfectly roasted (and oh-so-aromatic), toss them gently into your salad bowl with the kale mixture. Drizzle on some of that luscious dressing you just made—feel free to add more if you like! Mix everything together until well combined. Finally, top it off with sliced avocado and crumbled feta cheese for that extra touch of creaminess.

And there you have it! A delightful Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing that’s not just tasty but also incredibly nourishing. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing

Creating this delightful salad is not only about following the recipe but also about adding your personal touch. Here are some tips to make it even more enjoyable!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh kale and herbs will provide a vibrant flavor and texture. Look for crisp, bright greens and fragrant herbs for the best results.
• Customize Your Spices: Adjust the amount of chipotle chili powder based on your heat preference. If you prefer a milder salad, start with less and add more to taste.
• Roast Until Just Right: Keep an eye on your sweet potatoes and chickpeas while they roast. You want them to be tender and slightly crispy without burning, as this adds a perfect texture contrast to the salad.
• Massage the Kale: Don’t skip massaging the kale with the dressing! This helps break down the tough fibers, making the leaves more tender and flavorful.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare components (like roasted sweet potatoes and dressing) ahead of time. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing

Presenting your Sweet Potato Kale Salad beautifully can enhance the overall dining experience. Whether it’s a casual meal at home or a gathering with friends, here are some ideas on how to serve it attractively.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and depth of flavor.
• Pomegranate Seeds: These little bursts of sweetness not only look stunning but also add a refreshing contrast to the savory elements of the salad.
• Extra Herbs: A few sprigs of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten up your salad’s presentation and flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with sautéed vegetables complements the salad well, providing additional protein and fiber.
• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of seasonal grilled vegetables add a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with the earthy tones in the salad.
• Lentil Soup: A warm bowl of lentil soup balances out this fresh salad, offering hearty nutrition while maintaining a healthy meal vibe.
• Whole Grain Bread: Serve slices of crusty whole grain bread on the side for a satisfying crunch that rounds out your meal perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy your Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing in style! Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve made something deliciously healthy.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, making your busy weeknights easier and more delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The salad is best consumed within 2-3 days to maintain freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible, as it can make the salad soggy over time.

Freezing

• Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well due to the texture of the kale and avocado.
• Instead, consider prepping individual components (like roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas) to freeze separately and assemble when needed.

Reheating

• If you have leftover roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Avoid reheating the dressed salad; instead, add fresh dressing once you’ve warmed up the other ingredients.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious salad!

Can I make Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all components in advance. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, try using crumbled tofu or a nut-based cheese to maintain that creamy texture without the dairy.

How long does Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts about 2-3 days. For best taste, consume it within this timeframe.

Can I add other vegetables to my Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing?

Certainly! Feel free to mix in any of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or radishes for added color and crunch.

Is there a vegan option for the dressing in Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing?

Yes! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a fully vegan dressing option while keeping all those delightful flavors.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Sweet Potato Kale Salad with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing as I am! It’s not just nourishing but also vibrant and satisfying. Whether you whip it up for a cozy dinner or prepare it ahead for your lunchbox, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy making this delightful dish and let its flavors brighten your day!