Recipes

31 Kale Recipes to Kickstart Your Healthy Eating Journey

31 Best Kale Recipes

Welcome to our blog, where we're diving into the world of kale recipes! Kale, the leafy green superstar, has taken the culinary scene by storm with its incredible nutritional benefits and versatility in the kitchen. Whether you're a kale enthusiast or just starting to explore its potential, we've got you covered.

In this post, we'll unveil some of the best kale recipes that will make your taste buds dance and your body thank you. From salads to smoothies, soups to stir-fries, get ready to discover a kaleidoscope of flavors that will leave you craving for more. So, let's get cooking and explore the kale-icious possibilities together!

1. Baby Kale

Baby Kale

The Baby Kale recipe with garlic and crushed red pepper flakes is a flavorful and earthy side dish for dedicated kale lovers. The baby kale is dominant and almost overwhelming in taste, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy the distinct flavor of kale.

This recipe is a great way to incorporate kale into your diet, whether raw or cooked, and it offers numerous health benefits due to its high nutrient content. Overall, this recipe showcases the unique taste of baby kale and is a delicious addition to any meal.

2. Lemon Garlic Kale

Lemon Garlic Kale

Lemon Garlic Kale is a simple and flavorful recipe that transforms the often polarizing kale into a delicious and nutritious side dish.

Sautéed with red onion, tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of chili flakes, the kale becomes soft, juicy, and tangy with a touch of lemon. This recipe is a great way to mellow out the flavor of kale and enjoy its health benefits.

3. Sautéed Kale

Sautéed Kale

Sautéed Kale is a delicious and healthy side dish that is quick and easy to make. Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this recipe is a great way to enjoy the benefits of kale.

The sautéed kale is seasoned with garlic, red pepper flakes, and red wine vinegar, adding a flavorful twist to the dish. Serve it alongside your favorite main course for a well-balanced meal.

4. Sautéed Kale with Lemon and Garlic

Sautéed Kale With Lemon And Garlic

Sautéed Kale with Lemon and Garlic is a simple and flavorful recipe that transforms kale into a delicious and healthy dish.

The combination of sautéed garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the tender kale leaves. It's a quick and easy way to enjoy this nutritious green vegetable.

5. Kale Salad

Kale Salad

The Kale Salad recipe is a standout among the best kale recipes. It features a vibrant combination of ingredients, including roasted chickpeas, a variety of grated vegetables, avocado, dried cranberries, and toasted pepitas.

The star of the dish is the energizing carrot-ginger dressing, which ties all the flavors together. This salad is not only delicious but also holds up well if made ahead of time, making it a perfect option for packed lunches.

6. Creamy Kale

Creamy Kale

Creamy Kale is a quick and easy side dish that transforms boring kale into a delicious and exciting dish. The creamy lemon sauce adds a burst of flavor without much effort. This vegan, gluten-free, and low-carb recipe is perfect for any meal and a great way to incorporate more veggies.

The kale benefits from the addition of acid, which cuts through the bitterness, and the creamy sauce makes it irresistibly crave-able. Whether for a fancy dinner or a weeknight meal, Creamy Kale is sure to please everyone at the table.

7. Garlic Bacon Kale

Garlic Bacon Kale

The Garlic Bacon Kale recipe is a flavorful and nutritious way to enjoy this popular leafy green. With the addition of bacon and garlic, the dish is packed with delicious flavors that complement the earthy taste of kale.

It is a versatile recipe that can be served as a side dish or used in soups and casseroles. The sautéed kale is cooked to perfection, wilted and soft but not mushy. Overall, this recipe is a great option for incorporating kale into your meals.

8. Sauteed Kale with Garlic & Lemon

Sauteed Kale With Garlic & Lemon

Sauteed Kale with Garlic & Lemon is a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs well with a variety of entrees. The kale is cooked until tender and then sauteed with garlic and butter for added flavor.

The hint of lemon adds a refreshing touch. This recipe is easy to make and a great way to incorporate nutritious kale into your meals.

9. Instant Pot Kale

Instant Pot Kale

Instant Pot Kale is a quick and easy side dish that can be made in minutes. It uses simple ingredients like kale, onions, garlic, and spices, and can be customized to your liking.

This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthy and nutritious option, and it's a great way to use fresh kale from your garden or local farmer's market. Whether you prefer sautéed, roasted, or pressure cooked kale, this recipe will show you the best way to cook it in your Instant Pot.

10. Braised Kale

Braised Kale

Braised Kale is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that is packed with protein and calcium. It is a perfect side dish that can be made using fresh kale, onions, and garlic.

The kale is sautéed until wilted and then seasoned to perfection. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the health benefits of kale in a flavorful and nutritious way.

11. Easy Kale Salad with Lemon Dressing

Easy Kale Salad With Lemon Dressing

The Easy Kale Salad with Lemon Dressing is a game-changer for kale skeptics. The crisp, sweet kale is tenderized with olive oil and salt, while pistachios and grated parmesan add crunch and saltiness.

The golden raisins provide bursts of sweetness, and the bright lemon dressing ties it all together with its bold, citrusy flavors. This salad is a must-try for kale lovers and doubters alike.

12. Sauteed Kale with Garlic and Onion

Sauteed Kale With Garlic And Onion

Sauteed Kale with Garlic and Onion is a delicious and healthy side dish that will surprise even those who don't typically enjoy kale. The recipe calls for sautéing red onion and garlic in olive oil before adding chopped kale and letting it wilt.

The kale is cooked in water until tender and then seasoned with vinegar if desired. This recipe is a great way to incorporate kale into your meals and is a perfect accompaniment to any dish.

13. Savory Sauteed Kale

Savory Sauteed Kale

Savory Sauteed Kale is a quick and easy vegan side dish that is packed with flavor. With the addition of nutritional yeast, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, this recipe creates a savory and satisfying dish.

It can be made with or without oil, making it a versatile option for different dietary preferences. The kale is sauteed until wilted and vibrant green, resulting in a healthy and delicious addition to any meal.

14. Sauteed Kale

Sauteed Kale

Sauteed Kale is a delicious and nutritious dish that will convert even the biggest kale-haters into kale-lovers. This recipe uses lacinato kale, known for its milder taste, and enhances the earthy flavor with garlic, shallots, and rich broth.

The addition of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick. The recipe suggests sauteing the kale in coconut oil to mellow out any bitterness. Overall, this sauteed kale recipe is a game-changer for those looking to incorporate more leafy greens into their diet.

15. Kale Salad with Carrot Ginger Dressing

Kale Salad With Carrot Ginger Dressing

Kale Salad with Carrot Ginger Dressing is a vibrant and nutritious recipe that combines crispy chickpeas, avocado, cranberries, and pepitas with a creamy carrot ginger dressing.

The massaged kale leaves provide a tender and flavorful base for the salad. The addition of feta cheese, roasted beets, or protein alternatives like tempeh or lentils offer delicious variations. This recipe is a great option for a healthy and satisfying lunch.

16. Spicy Sauteed Kale

Spicy Sauteed Kale

Spicy Sauteed Kale is a flavorful side dish that combines tender kale with a kick of crushed red peppers. The sautéing process helps to reduce the bitterness of the kale, resulting in a delicious and nutritious dish.

The addition of garlic, lemon juice, and dried oregano adds depth of flavor. Overall, this recipe is a great way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of kale in a simple and tasty way.

17. Kale Quinoa Salad

Kale Quinoa Salad

Kale Quinoa Salad is a delicious and healthy option for a light lunch or dinner. Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients like kale, quinoa, and colorful vegetables, this salad is both satisfying and nutritious. The combination of flavors and textures creates a refreshing and vibrant dish.

It can be easily customized by adding your favorite vegetables or toppings. Whether served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, this salad is a great option for meal prep and can be enjoyed throughout the week. Overall, Kale Quinoa Salad is a tasty and nourishing choice for clean eating.

18. Kale Salad with Lemon Dressing

Kale Salad With Lemon Dressing

The Kale Salad with Lemon Dressing is a nutritious and flavorful addition to any meal. The tangy lemon vinaigrette perfectly complements the kale, while the sliced almonds and grated Parmesan cheese add a delightful crunch.

This salad is a quick and easy way to incorporate greens into your diet, and the massaging technique removes the bitterness often associated with kale. Overall, it's a simple and healthy recipe that is sure to satisfy.

19. Autumn Kale Apple and Quinoa Salad

Autumn Kale Apple And Quinoa Salad

The Autumn Kale Apple and Quinoa Salad is a game-changer for those who are not fans of raw kale. The combination of fresh kale leaves, sweet apples, nutritious quinoa, chewy dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, tangy goat cheese, and a bright vinaigrette creates a delicious and satisfying fall salad.

It pairs perfectly as a side dish with roasted chicken and mashed or roasted potatoes. This salad holds up well in the fridge for up to 4 hours, making it a great option for parties or meal prep. Overall, it's a must-try kale recipe that will change your perspective on raw kale.

20. Sesame Kale

Sesame Kale

Sesame Kale is a flavorful and versatile kale recipe that packs a punch. Aromatic ginger and garlic add a touch of heat, while sesame seeds provide protein and crunch.

This easy plant-based side dish can be served with crispy tofu, in a grain salad, or even stuffed into a sushi roll. With its quick preparation time of just 15 minutes, Sesame Kale is a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal.

21. Baked Kale Gratin

Baked Kale Gratin

Baked Kale Gratin is a cheesy and creamy kale dish that is easy to make. It is topped with heavy cream and cheese, giving it a rich and indulgent flavor.

While not the healthiest option, it is a delicious way to enjoy kale. The recipe can be customized with different types of cheese for added variety. Overall, Baked Kale Gratin is a tasty and satisfying kale recipe to try.

22. Kale Soup with Lime-Cilantro Chickpeas

Kale Soup With Lime-Cilantro Chickpeas

The Kale Soup with Lime-Cilantro Chickpeas is a flavorful and vibrant recipe that combines the goodness of kale, roasted vegetables, and marinated chickpeas.

The soup is packed with green chili peppers, tomatillos, and garlic, giving it a deliciously charred flavor. The lime-cilantro chickpeas add a zesty and refreshing touch to the soup. It's a must-try for kale lovers looking for a healthy and satisfying meal.

23. Sautéed Kale with Cider Vinegar

Sautéed Kale With Cider Vinegar

Sautéed Kale with Cider Vinegar is a simple and flavorful side dish that balances the bitterness of kale with a slightly sour-slightly sweet apple cider vinegar.

The combination of peppery kale, sweet onions, and tangy vinegar creates a delicious and nutritious accompaniment to any meal. It's easy to make, vegan, Paleo-friendly, and naturally gluten-free. A must-try for kale lovers!

24. Chopped Kale Salad

Chopped Kale Salad

The Chopped Kale Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines finely chopped kale, red cabbage, brussels sprouts, pine nuts, dried cherries, and grated white cheddar cheese.

The simple lemon and oil dressing adds a light and bright flavor to the salad. It's a perfect side dish or light lunch option that offers a little bit of everything in each forkful.

25. Kale Falafel

Kale Falafel

Kale Falafel is a nutritious and flavorful twist on traditional falafel. By adding kale to the mix, these falafel become not only green but also packed with vitamins and minerals. Made with canned chickpeas and pan-fried, they are quick and easy to prepare.

The crispy exterior and soft interior make them a delicious and satisfying option for salads, wraps, pitas, or served over couscous. Overall, Kale Falafel is a healthy and tasty way to enjoy the benefits of kale in a classic Middle Eastern dish.

26. Sautéed Kale W/ Caramelized Onions

Sautéed Kale W/ Caramelized Onions

Sautéed Kale with Caramelized Onions is a delicious and easy recipe that will win over even the biggest dark leafy green skeptics. The combination of tender kale and sweet caramelized onions creates a flavorful and nutritious side dish.

With simple variations like adding bacon or Dijon mustard, this recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether you use Lacinato or curly kale, this sautéed kale is a must-try for kale lovers and haters alike.

27. Spicy Kale Wrap Salad

Spicy Kale Wrap Salad

The Spicy Kale Wrap Salad is a nutritionally dense and satisfying recipe that can be enjoyed as a salad or wrapped in a gluten-free pita or nori seaweed sheet. The combination of kale, red onion, avocado, sun-dried tomatoes, and a spicy sauce creates a flavorful and hearty dish.

This allergy-friendly option is egg, dairy, nut, gluten, and soy-free, making it suitable for various dietary restrictions. With the added benefits of kale's antioxidants and protein content, this recipe is a great choice for a healthy and delicious meal.

28. Garlic Butter Kale Rice

Garlic Butter Kale Rice

Garlic Butter Kale Rice is a delicious side dish that combines fluffy rice with loads of kale. The kale is marinated in olive oil, salt, and pepper to soften and add flavor. The rice is cooked with garlic and butter, giving it a rich and savory taste.

The combination of the wilted kale and the flavorful rice is a winner, and even kale haters will love it. This recipe is a great way to incorporate vegetables into a meal and is perfect for serving alongside protein.

29. Kale Walnut Pesto

Kale Walnut Pesto

Kale Walnut Pesto is a versatile and flavorful addition to any dish. Made with baby kale, toasted walnuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and extra virgin olive oil, this pesto is easy to make and adds a delicious twist to pizza, pasta, eggs, and more.

With its milder flavor, baby kale provides a pleasant taste while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. This pesto is a must-try for kale lovers looking to elevate their meals.

30. Easy Kale Pesto

Easy Kale Pesto

Easy Kale Pesto is a budget-friendly and healthy alternative to traditional pesto. Made with frozen chopped kale, grated parmesan cheese, sliced almonds, dried basil, salt, and extra virgin olive oil, this pantry-friendly recipe is a great way to add flavor to your meals.

The pesto can be enjoyed on pasta, eggs, sweet potatoes, roasted chicken, or even spread on crunchy sourdough toast with a poached egg on top. It can be easily customized with different ingredients based on what you have available. Store the pesto in the fridge for up to one week.

31. Kale Pesto

Kale Pesto

Kale Pesto is a vibrant and flavorful alternative to traditional basil pesto. Made with fresh kale, garlic, pepitas, Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast, lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, and seasonings, this pesto is rich and nutty with a hint of peppery goodness.

It can be used in various ways, such as tossing with pasta, spooning over eggs, slathering on sandwiches, or dolloping on a grain bowl. With its quick preparation time and versatility, Kale Pesto is a must-have recipe for any kale lover.