Feta & Pepitas Recipe

If you are searching for a vibrant, nourishing salad that excites both your eyes and palate, this Kale Salad with Roasted Sweet Potato, Dried Cherries, Feta & Pepitas is a must-try. The blend of earthy kale, sweet and tender roasted sweet potatoes, juicy dried cherries, and the irresistible crunch of Feta & Pepitas offers a symphony of flavors and textures that make every bite unforgettable. This salad feels like a celebration of wholesome ingredients perfectly balanced to brighten your meals any day of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients is all it takes to bring this colorful salad to life. Each element plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s both hearty and refreshing, from the caramelized sweetness of the roasted potatoes to the tangy pop of the Feta & Pepitas topping.

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced into cubes: Provides a naturally sweet and tender base with a lovely roasted flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps roasted veggies caramelize beautifully and adds richness.
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup: Adds a subtle sweetness to enhance the roasted sweet potato’s flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the potatoes with a savory, aromatic touch.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Brings out all the savory and sweet flavors perfectly.
• 1 large bunch Tuscan kale, stemmed and finely chopped (about 6 cups): A hearty green that adds great texture and nutrition.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing): Creates a smooth, luscious dressing base.
• 1 tablespoon fresh orange or lemon juice: Brightens the dressing with citrusy zest.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds tang and balances sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard: Provides a gentle kick and emulsifies the dressing.
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (for dressing): Rounds out the acidity with mellow sweetness.
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance every component.
• ¼ cup pepitas pumpkin seeds: Adds a toasty, crunchy element that contrasts the softer ingredients.
• ¼ cup feta cheese crumbles: Delivers creamy tanginess that makes the salad pop.
• ⅓ cup dried cherries: Brings bursts of juicy, tart sweetness in every bite.
• ½ cup roasted or canned chickpeas: Introduces satisfying protein and an extra crunchy texture.

How to Make Feta & Pepitas

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, maple syrup, minced garlic, and salt until every cube is nicely coated. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 35 to 45 minutes, stirring halfway through. This step is crucial because proper roasting brings out the natural sweetness and ensures tender, caramelized chunks that are the backbone of this salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Kale

As the sweet potatoes are roasting, wash, stem, and finely chop your kale. Place it in a large bowl and prepare to pamper these greens with a massage. This massage isn’t just for fun — it breaks down the tough fibers, softens the kale, and helps it absorb the dressing so every leaf is flavorful and easy to eat.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, fresh citrus juice (orange or lemon), apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, and maple syrup. Whisk vigorously until smooth and slightly thickened. This dressing strikes the perfect balance of bright, tangy, and sweet notes that complement the earthy kale and the rich roasted potatoes beautifully.

Step 4: Massage the Kale with Dressing

Pour the dressing over the chopped kale and gently massage it using your clean hands for a few minutes. This technique tenderizes the kale and infuses it with an irresistible flavor that makes eating greens a real joy, not a chore.

Step 5: Combine Sweet Potatoes and Kale

Once your sweet potatoes are fork-tender and gloriously roasted, fold them into the massaged kale. Toss everything together gently so the different textures and flavors meld to create a harmonious base for the Feta & Pepitas topping.

Step 6: Add the Feta & Pepitas Topping

At the very last minute, sprinkle pepitas, feta cheese crumbles, dried cherries, and roasted chickpeas over the salad. Adding these crunchy and creamy elements just before serving keeps their textures perfect and elevates the entire dish from simple salad to a delightful explosion of taste and pleasure.

How to Serve Feta & Pepitas

Garnishes

To make your Feta & Pepitas salad truly sing, consider finishing it off with a few fresh herbs like chopped parsley or mint for a pop of color and freshness. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving adds a lovely brightness that lifts all the flavors.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with almost anything, but it’s particularly wonderful alongside grilled chicken, seared salmon, or even a hearty grain like quinoa for a complete meal. Its vibrant flavors and textures can brighten up even the simplest of weeknight dinners.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve this salad in rustic wooden bowls or on large platter-style plates so everyone can help themselves. If you’re packing lunches, keep the Feta & Pepitas separate in a little container until ready to eat to maintain that crisp crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the salad and the Feta & Pepitas toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the crunchy toppings fresh and prevents the kale from becoming soggy.

Freezing

While the salad isn’t ideal for freezing due to the fresh ingredients and texture contrasts, you can freeze the roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas separately ahead of time. Just thaw and reheat before assembling your salad for a quick meal.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas in the oven or microwave. Add them to fresh kale dressed with the dressing, then finish with Feta & Pepitas just before serving for that perfect crunch.

FAQs

Can I use different greens instead of kale?

Absolutely! While kale offers a wonderful texture and nutrition punch, you can swap in spinach, arugula, or even mixed salad greens for a lighter, more delicate base.

Are pepitas necessary for the salad?

Pepitas give this salad a crunchy, nutty element that contrasts beautifully with the soft sweet potatoes and creamy feta. If unavailable, toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds work as great alternatives.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick whisk before using to bring it back together.

What if I don’t have dried cherries?

You can substitute with dried cranberries or raisins. They offer similar sweet-tart bursts that complement the salad nicely.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Store kale, roasted sweet potatoes, and dressing separately, and keep the Feta & Pepitas toppings aside until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness and crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Kale Salad with Roasted Sweet Potato, Dried Cherries, Feta & Pepitas is my go-to when I want something that feels both healthy and indulgent. The layers of flavor and texture combine into a dish that’s as satisfying as it is colorful. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with every spoonful of Feta & Pepitas magic!

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