Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Salad

Salads don’t have to be boring! By adding cooked and raw elements like in this Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Salad can elevate any salad experience.

Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Salad in wooden bowl with wooden serving spoons

There is nothing worse when trying to enjoy a kale salad and your jaw becomes numb with all the chewing. It’s most likely that the kale wasn’t treated properly. Kale is very fibrous, but the simple technique of massaging kale can change your whole kale salad experience. I’ve talked all about this already here.

Salads don’t have to be boring! Mix and match with various food groups, flavors, and textures. I like to add both raw and cooked elements to add different depths of flavor.

Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Salad in a white bowl

Perfectly roasted sweet potatoes provide additional sweetness from their caramelization.

Tips to perfectly roast vegetables:

  • Cut vegetables approximately the same size. This will prevent smaller pieces from overcooking and larger pieces not being cooked through.
  • Don’t overdo it on the oil. One tablespoon of olive oil is enough for a full tray of vegetables. Instead of drizzling the oil when the vegetables are already on the sheet pan, toss in a large bowl then place vegetables on the sheet pan. This will ensure all vegetables are evenly coated.
  • Don’t crowd the pan. Vegetables should be an even layer on the sheet pan. Overcrowding can result in the vegetables steaming rather than roasting.
  • Stop stirring. Simply flip vegetables halfway through the cooking process. Constant stirring won’t allow the vegetables to caramelize evenly on each side.
  • Looking for easy cleanup. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Salad in a wooden bowl with wooden serving utensils

With a little meal prep, this salad can come together in minutes. Roast sweet potatoes in advance, wash and chop kale, batch cook quinoa, and make the dressing. By getting the prep process started earlier on can help put meals together in minutes. With kale being very fibrous, it lasts longer in the refrigerator. I wash and chop kale for the week and store it in a breathable produce bag. Then, I can easily prepare a salad; add it to a smoothie, or sauté for a quick side dish.

Fun Fact:

Have you ever notices kale that has been sitting in the refrigerator for a longer period of time, the edges start to turn an orange/yellow color. Yes, the kale is aging, but it’s not going bad. As kale ages, the deep green chlorophyll color begins to fade and the vitamin A & C colors shine through. Kale is an excellent source of Vitamins A & C.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Salad in a wooden bowl with wooden utensils

Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Salad

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8
  • Category: Salad
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Salads don’t have to be boring! By adding cooked and raw elements like in this Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Salad can elevate any salad experience.


Ingredients

For the salad:
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 sweet potatoes, chopped, cut into cubes
8 cups kales, stems removed and chopped
1 cup quinoa, cooked
½ cup chopped walnuts
½ cup dried cranberries

For the dressing:
1/3 cup golden balsamic vinegar
¼ cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon maple syrup
salt, to taste


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with cooking spray or parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Add to the baking sheet in an even layer. Roast for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through until sweet potatoes have caramelized and are fork tender. Remove from oven and let cool completely. 
  3. In a large bowl, add the kale and massage to become tender. Add the sweet potatoes, quinoa, walnuts, and dried cranberries. Toss to combine.
  4. In a mason jar, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and maple syrup. Secure lid and shake to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Drizzle dressing over salad and toss to combine. 

Notes

The addition of feta cheese to this salad is great if desired. 

Keywords: salad, quinoa, sweet potato, kale, walnuts, cranberries, healthy

Recipe Card powered byTasty Recipes

Play around with this salad combination. For a more filling meal add protein, like beans, grilled chicken, shrimp, etc. Switch up the dressing. Add fresh fruit, like pears, apples, or pomegranate seeds too.

One-Pan Chicken Sausage & Gnocchi Sauté

This one-pan chicken sausage & gnocchi saute utilizes simple ingredients to create a delicious meal in minutes.

kale with chicken sausage and gnocchi

I never understood the mad rush to the grocery store when there is an inkling of news about the possibility of snow. Previously, working as a retail dietitian, the madness was unreal. The aisles with the bread and milk would be completely wiped out. I guess everyone’s instinct is to survive on bread and milk if they get snowed in? I’ll never understand.

Sausage, gnocchi, and kale in a white bowl

My kitchen isn’t always completely stocked and with news of snow, I’m the last person you will see heading to the grocery store. I don’t want to deal with the craziness!

I think it’s fun to poke around the kitchen utilizing what I have on hand to create new meal ideas. I always say that makes me feel like I am on an episode of “Chopped“. (minus the crazy ingredients like cow’s tongue the contestants get in their mystery baskets)

One Pan Chicken Sausage & Gnocchi Sauté in a white bowl on a marble slab

Each kitchen no matter how big or small has four kitchen zones: the refrigerator, freezer, pantry, and countertops. Don’t just open the fridge and just decide “there’s nothing to eat, let’s grab take out.” Utilize the ingredients in each zone to create a meal. This recipe uses all four kitchen zones to create a delicious and balanced meal.

What Kind of Gnocchi Should I Use? 

You can use the kind you find that are shelf-stable, frozen, and can even use cauliflower gnocchi instead of potato. 

The gnocchi is cooked separately to start with, which is why you can use multiple brands of varieties. 

If you haven’t tried Trader Joe’s gnocchi, you are truly missing out!

Ingredients for Chicken Sausage Gnocchi

Gnocchi – as I mentioned earlier you can choose your favorite 

Olive oil

Chicken sausage – these are the link kind

Garlic cloves

White beans – any variety will work 

Kale 

Chicken broth – try to get low sodium if you can

How to Make Chicken Sausage Gnocchi in Less Than 30 Minutes

Before we get started, go ahead and cook the gnocchi according to the instructions on the packaging. 

While that’s cooking, prep your kale by removing the ribs and chopping it coarsely. 

Then add a tablespoon of oil over medium heat and cook the chicken sausages, just until they are browned. Take them out of the pan and set aside. 

Using the same pan, heat the rest of the oil and add the minced garlic, drained white beans, and cooked gnocchi. 

Cook until the gnocchi and beans are warmed. Be sure to keep a close watch on the garlic, you do not want it to burn. You can turn down the heat if needed. 

Add the sausage links back to the pan followed by the kale and chicken broth. Stir and cover until the kale wilts. 

Take the lid off and continue cooking just to allow the excess liquid to evaporate. 

Top with some parm and serve! 

chicken sausage and gnocchi in a white bowl next to a dish towel

No need to rush to the grocery store when there is snow in the forecast. Just utilize what you have in each kitchen zone! And with simply one pan, chicken sausage & gnocchi saute came together in minutes.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
One Pan Chicken Sausage & Gnocchi Sauté in a white bowl

One Pan Chicken Sausage & Gnocchi Sauté

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 25
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4
  • Category: dinner
  • Method: one pan

Description

One Pan Chicken Sausage & Gnocchi Sauté making meal time a breeze


Ingredients

Scale

10 oz. gnocchi*, cooked according to package directions
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
4 links chicken sausage*, sliced on a bias
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15.5 oz.) can white beans, drained and rinsed
6 cups kale, ribs removed and roughly chopped
1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth


Instructions

Cook gnocchi according to package directions. 

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook chicken sausages until browned. Remove from pan and set aside.

Heat remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the same pan. Add garlic, white beans and gnocchi. Saute until beans and gnocchi are warmed through. (Keep an eye on the garlic. Do not let it burn. Turn down heat if needed.)

Add chicken sausage back into the pan. Then, add kale and chicken broth. Stir to thoroughly combine ingredients. Cover until kale wilts. Remove lid and allow excess moisture to evaporate. 

Serve. Top with parmesan cheese, if desired. 


Notes

  • *Can use cauliflower gnocchi in this recipe, if desired.
    *I used Alfresco chicken sausage.

Keywords: kale, chicken, chicken sausage, one pan, gnocchi, white beans, beans, dinner

Recipe Card powered byTasty Recipes

This post may contain affiliate links. To find out more information, please read my disclosure statement.

other recipes you may enjoy

Squash and Wheat Berry Salad

This Squash & Wheat Berry Salad captures all the different flavors of sweet, savory, tart, and nutty. Batch cook for the week for a satisfying meal or side dish. 
Squash & Wheat Berry Salad via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #wheatberries #wholegrain #squash #sidedish #salad

One of my meal prep strategies is batch cooking at least one whole grain for the week. Then that whole grain is incorporated throughout the week in various ways.
I’ve been utilizing my Instant Pot to quickly batch cook grains for my weekly meal prep. Wheat berries can take up to an hour to cook and require you to keep a constant eye on them. Throw them into the Instant Pot and voila – done in half the time!
Squash & Wheat Berry Salad via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #wheatberries #wholegrain #squash #sidedish #salad
I’ve had a little extra time on my hands this week being completely snowed in the past two days. With an already prepped batch of wheat berries in my fridge, I utilized the ingredients in my kitchen to create this dish.
I feel like many of my recipes are like I am a contestant on Chopped. The items that are in my kitchen are my “mystery basket”. I must say it is a much easier mystery basket than what the contestants end up with. Chopped viewers voted, mashed potatoes candies were voted the weirdest basket ingredient on the show. What even are those?!
Squash & Wheat Berry Salad via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #wheatberries #wholegrain #squash #sidedish #salad
Squash season is not over yet! I love using delicata squash because of its more tender flesh and skin, making this variety easier to work with. No need to even peel the skin!

Make your own vinaigrette:

You know I love making my own dressings. It’s SO easy. Want to create your own signature vinaigrette? Use my guide with your favorite flavor combination!

Print

clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
wheat berry salad with squash in a white bowl

Squash Wheat Berry Salad

  • Author: Chef Julie Harrington, RD
  • Prep Time: 30
  • Cook Time: 8
  • Total Time: 38 minutes
  • Yield: 6
  • Category: side dish

Description

This Squash & Wheat Berry Salad captures all the different flavors of sweet, savory, tart, and nutty. Batch cook for the week for a satisfying meal or side dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups wheat berries, cooked
  • 1 delicata squash (about 2 cups), or your favorite squash
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • zest of one orange
  • 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
  • ½ cup dried tart cherries
  • 1/3 cup sliced almond

Instructions

  1. Cook wheat berries according to package directions (or try my Instant Pot Wheat Berries recipe for a simple method). Let cool once cooked.
  2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Dice delicate squash. Toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-30 minutes, until squash is tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
  3. In a mason jar, combine remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, orange zest, orange juice, and maple syrup. Secure the mason jar lid and vigorously shake. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  4. In a large bowl, combine wheat berries, squash, kale, dried tart cherries, and sliced almond. Dress with salad dressing. Toss to combine.

Notes

Instant Pot Wheat Berries recipe here

Keywords: side dish, farro, whole grain, squash, salad

Recipe Card powered byTasty Recipes

Did you make this recipe? I’d love to see. Tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or comment below!

Chef Julie Harrington, RD - Culinary Nutrition Consultant of chefjulierd.com

Pin for later!

Squash & Wheat Berry Salad via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #wheatberries #wholegrain #squash #sidedish #salad

Why You Should Be Massaging Kale

Turn the kitchen lights down, light some scented candles, and get your kale ready for a relaxing massage. I know it sounds silly to massage kale, but trust me you’ll never NOT massage your kale again after reading this post.
Why You Should Be Massaging Kale via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #rdchat #kale #howto #cookingtips #salad
Have you ever prepared or order a kale salad and chew on the same bite which seems to last a lifetime? Kale is very fibrous and can leave you chewing until your jaw starts to numb. This happens when the kale hasn’t been treated properly. This treatment comes in the form of a massage. While it might seem a bit odd to massage your food, you’d be amazed at what a quick five-minute rubdown can do to transform this green from being bitter and tough to turning silky and sweet.

Kale is a strong, sturdy, and bitter green that can withstand growing in the cold winters. Kale was once only used as a garnish but then labeled as a “superfood” in recent years. It was used as a garnish because of its structure. The bright green leaves would withstand long hours on the buffet table, while still looking fresh and providing that pop of color. Why? Because of its tough cellulose structure.

Massaging kale is easy to do. Remove any thick fibrous ribs of the kale leaves. Take bunches of kale leaves in both hands and rub them together. Work your fingers on each leave. You’ll start to notice a visible change right away. The leaves will darken and yield, softer, shinier, and tender sweet pieces of kale.
Why You Should Be Massaging Kale via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #rdchat #kale #howto #cookingtips #salad

Nutrition to know:

Kale is high in fiber, antioxidants, and carotenoids (lutein and beta-carotene), with more than 45 flavonoids, particularly kaempferol, and other phytonutrients like quercetin, which helps combat inflammation. Kale has twice the vitamin K as other cruciferous vegetables.
Did you know? Kale has more vitamin C than an orange! One cup of chopped kale has 134 percent of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C, while a medium orange has 113 percent. Kale is also packed with vitamin A! A one-cup serving of kale contains over 200% of our vitamin A recommendation in the form of beta carotene.

Meal prep tip:

Since kale has such a sturdy structure, wash, trim, and massage kale for the week. Fresh kale can stay fresh for about 1 week in the refrigerator.
Ever notice the yellow/orange color on the edges as kale ages? It’s not necessarily going bad, but chlorophyll green color is breaking down and shows the rich vitamin A & C color along the edges.

Kale recipes to try:

Kale Salad with Sweet Shallot Vinaigrette via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #salad #dressing #homemade #shallot #vinaigrette #saladKale Salad with a Sweet Shallot Vinaigrette

Balsamic Kale and Vegetable Saute via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_KitchenBalsamic Kale and Vegetable Saute

Butternut Squash & Kale Pita Pizza via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_KitchenButternut Squash and Kale Pita Pizza

How to Make a Vinaigrette

Dress up any salad with this delicious sweet shallot vinaigrette.
Kale Salad with Sweet Shallot Vinaigrette via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #salad #dressing #homemade #shallot #vinaigrette #salad
I don’t think people realize how EASY it is to make a homemade dressing. The most basic vinaigrette recipe is one part acid mixed with three to four parts base (oil). Then just add seasonings you enjoy. Simply pour ingredients into a mason jar and shake away. Your dressing is made! How easy was that? Plus, making it in a mason jar is ready to store any leftovers.

Guide to building a delicious vinaigrette:

If you want to go beyond the basics, use the guide I am sharing on Healthy Aperture’s blog.

Did you make this recipe? Tag @rdeliciouskitchen on Instagram or send me a picture, I’d love to see!
RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen

Pin for later!

Kale Salad with Sweet Shallot Vinaigrette via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen #salad #dressing #homemade #shallot #vinaigrette #salad

Balsamic Kale and Vegetable Saute

This one pan Balsamic Kale and Vegetable Saute recipe can help get a side dish or dinner on the table in minutes.
Balsamic Kale and Vegetable Saute via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen

This creation accidentally happened when I opened my refrigerator for dinner one night not knowing what I was going to have for dinner and just pulled out everything that I had.
I really liked how it turned out and now I purposely buy all these ingredients to make this recipe over and over again. Since my accidental recipe creation, I’ve made this recipe at least 3 more times already.
Balsamic Kale and Vegetable Saute via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen
I mean, how easy is it? Just simply throw everything into one pan. With minimal prep and clean up, this is the perfect solution for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
Balsamic Kale and Vegetable Saute via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen
Of course, you don’t have to create this exact combination. Use this recipe as a template and work with what vegetables you have. Any bean or other protein can be included as well.
Balsamic Kale and Vegetable Saute via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen
What vegetable combination would you create this dish with?

Print

clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Balsamic Kale and Vegetable Saute in a white bowl

Balsamic Kale and Vegetable Saute

  • Author: Julie @ RDelicious Kitchen
  • Yield: 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 1 red pepper, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 (15 oz.) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1-pint grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 large bunch kale (~ 6 cups), chopped
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • (optional) parmesan cheese, to garnish

Instructions

  1. Add olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Saute the onions and peppers for about 1 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, until garlic is fragrant.
  2. Add mushrooms and chickpeas. Cook until mushrooms are tender. (Use a lid to generate steam if the pan starts to become dry)
  3. Add kale, tomatoes, and balsamic vinegar. Toss vegetables to combine. Place a lid on top to allow kale to wilt. Remove lid and cook for an additional 2 minutes, removing excess liquid.
  4. Season with salt and pepper, as needed.
  5. Remove vegetable saute from the pan and garnish with parmesan cheese (if using).

Recipe Card powered byTasty Recipes

Did you make this recipe? Tag @rdeliciouskitchen on Instagram or send me a picture, I’d love to see! RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen

Pin it for later!

Balsamic Kale and Vegetable Saute via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen

Butternut Squash and Kale Pita Pizza

Turn leftovers into something brand new like this Butternut Squash and Kale Pita Pizza.
Butternut Squash & Kale Pita Pizza via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_KitchenDisclosure: By posting this recipe I am entering a recipe contest sponsored by Toufyan Bakeries and am eligible to win prizes associated with the contest. I was not compensated for my time.
This recipe was inspired by leftovers and of course Toufyan Bakeries. Adrian and I like to watch Chopped and anytime I have a refrigerator full of leftovers, I pretend I am on an episode. In this mystery basket, the items that I had to work with was leftover roasted butternut squash, an already baked sweet potato, and kale that was on its last legs.
Butternut Squash & Kale Pita Pizza via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen

Butternut Squash & Kale Pita Pizza via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_KitchenI utilize pitas for pizzas often as they are the perfect size for a personal pie. Toufayan Bakeries uses old-world recipes with only top quality, wholesome ingredients. Toufayan Pita is naturally cholesterol free and trans fat-free, so it’s the perfect vessel to load with your favorite toppings!
Butternut Squash & Kale Pita Pizza via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_KitchenI was pleasantly surprised how thick, creamy, and delicious the base of the sweet potato came out, which helped the pita not get soggy when baked. The edges crisped up perfectly in the oven.
I wanted to try something different than mozzarella cheese on top, so I went for fontina. It paired perfectly with this flavor combination since this semi-soft cow’s cheese has a gentle buttery and nutty flavor.
Butternut Squash & Kale Pita Pizza via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_KitchenThe recipe notes that the balsamic glaze drizzled top is optional, but I might change that to mandatory!

Print

clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
slice of Butternut Squash and Kale Pita Pizza on a white plate

Butternut Squash and Kale Pita Pizza

  • Author: Julie @ RDelicious Kitchen
  • Yield: 2

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 whole wheat Toufayan Pita Bread pitas
  • 1 sweet potato, baked skin removed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium chicken stock
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup butternut squash, cubed and roasted
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 small red onion, sliced
  • 2 cups kale, stems removed, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup fontina cheese, shredded
  • (optional) 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Remove the skin from the sweet potato. In a small food processor, puree the sweet potato, garlic, chicken stock, and black pepper. Spread evenly on both of the pitas.
  3. In a large saute pan over low-medium heat, saute onions until caramelized. Just as the onions are about done, add the kale and saute until kale has wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Assemble your pizzas by spreading the sweet potato mixture at the bottom, adding the caramelized onions and kale, then butternut squash.
  5. Sprinkle with cheese and place in the oven for 2-3 minutes, until cheese has melted and pizza is warmed through.
  6. Let slightly cool and drizzle with balsamic glaze, if using.

Recipe Card powered byTasty Recipes

What have you recreated with your leftovers?
RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen
Butternut Squash & Kale Pita Pizza via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen
To find out more about Toufayan Bakeries, follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Their products are available nationwide.

Kale, Quinoa, and Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash

Sometimes dinner time turns into an episode of Chopped right in your own kitchen. This Kale, Quinoa, and Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash can easily be customized with ingredients you have in your refrigerator and pantry for a simple, wholesome meal.

Kale, Quinoa, and Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen
The holiday season can be stressful at times. Considering I haven’t even started any of my holiday shopping, let alone even figuring out what I am getting anyone, that is adding a little stress to my plate these days. Things have been very busy here at RDelicious Kitchen, so I like to escape to my happy place and stress reliever – the kitchen.

There is something so soothing about chopping, stirring, and the aroma in the kitchen. With my days being jam packed it has been leaving little time for simple things, like grocery shopping. This recipe was inspired as I was in my imaginary world of being on an episode of Chopped. When you haven’t gone grocery shopping in a little while, you have to get creative!
Kale, Quinoa, and Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen
Time-saving tip: Whenever I make a batch of quinoa, I always make extra and freeze the rest. This whole grain freezes well and easily heats up so you don’t have to start from scratch every time you are making quinoa.
My kale was on its last legs in my fridge, so in the saute pan it goes! Kale is one of those leafy greens that even after washing and trimming can last long in the refrigerator. When it begins to wilt, that’s when I throw that kale in my smoothies or saute pan – no waste!

Kale, Quinoa, and Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen
When building a recipe, look to add different textures to the dish. I added almonds (my balsamic roasted almonds, to be exact) which adds that crunch factor, but also adds heart-healthy fats, fiber, and protein!

Print

clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Kale, Quinoa, and Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash on white plates

Kale, Quinoa, and Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash

  • Author: Julie @ RDelicious Kitchen
  • Yield: 2

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 acorn squash
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 cup quinoa, cooked
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup almonds, chopped
  • salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Slice acorn squash in half, lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds. Place squash on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray, flesh side down. Roast squash until for tender, about 30-50 minutes. (Exact roasting time will depend on the size and variety of your squash.
  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil to the pan. Add kale and cook until slightly wilted. Add the balsamic vinegar and let cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in the quinoa, dried cranberries, and almonds, and cook until warmed through.
  5. Full acorn squash with kale, quinoa, and kale mixture and serve.

Notes

*for an extra kick of balsamic, add balsamic roasted almonds

Balsamic Roasted Almonds + Fun Facts about Almonds

Recipe Card powered byTasty Recipes

RDelicious Kitchen - Julie Harrington Consulting LLC - @rdkitchen
Kale, Quinoa, and Cranberry Stuffed Acorn Squash via RDelicious Kitchen @RD_Kitchen

Hearty Vegetable Soup

Nothing is better than coming inside from a cold winter day and warming up with a hearty bowl of soup. Making soup from scratch is by far better than the canned stuff. Canned soups are packed with a ton of sodium. The recommended intake of sodium is < 2,400 mg per day. In some soups thats 75% of your sodium intake right there!
 
Making homemade soup is simple. Plus, if you make a big batch you can freeze half and bring it back out later in the winter season. Stick to the broth based soups with tons of vegetables for fewer calories and for a nutrient dense meal.

Minestrone soup RD1.jpg

Hearty Vegetable Soup

Makes 12 servings

 

Ingredients:
4 strips bacon, diced
3 carrots, peeled and chopped into a small dice
4 celery stalks, chopped into a small dice
5 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 medium red onions, chopped
Salt and pepper
1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
3/4 cup sundried tomatoes, sliced
2 quarts low sodium vegetable stock
2 quarts water
3 cups kale, roughly chopped
1 lb whole-wheat ditalini pasta
1 (15 oz) can chickpeas


Directions:

1. In a large stock pot over add the bacon and cook until crispy. Add the carrots, celery, garlic, and onions to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the veggies are tender, 7-8 minutes more.

2. Add the mushrooms, sundried tomatoes, and cook for another 2 minutes.

3. Add the stock and water to the pot, and bring up to a boil.

4. Add the kale, pasta, and chickpeas to the soup pot, and cook until the pasta is al dente. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Ladle the soup into shallow bowls.


Minestrone Soup RD2.jpg


Screen shot 2013-12-16 at 11.13.29 PM.png
(nutrition facts based on calorie count)

 

 

Enjoy!