Kale often gets a reputation as a superfood, and while it’s true that this dark leafy green is packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, it’s also a versatile and delicious ingredient that can elevate a variety of side dishes. From crispy chips to creamy soups and vibrant salads, kale can take on many forms, and you’ll find that these 14 kale side dishes are so tasty, you might forget how healthy they are. Perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts, these kale recipes are full of flavor and will convince even the most skeptical eaters to embrace this powerhouse green. Let’s dive into these tasty, nutrient-packed kale sides that will make you fall in love with kale all over again!
1. Crispy Kale Chips
Crispy kale chips are a healthy alternative to traditional potato chips, but they’re just as addictive. Made by tossing fresh kale leaves with olive oil, salt, and a sprinkle of your favorite seasoning, these chips are baked until they’re perfectly crisp and crunchy. The kale’s natural flavor is enhanced by the seasoning, and the result is a snack that’s both delicious and nutritious. Serve them as an appetizer, a side, or just snack on them during the day—they’re perfect for any occasion! Get the recipe: Crispy Kale Chips
2. Kale Caesar Salad
Kale makes for a heartier, more nutrient-packed version of a traditional Caesar salad. The robust leaves stand up to the creamy Caesar dressing, and the crunch of croutons adds a satisfying texture contrast. Topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper, this kale Caesar salad is a perfect side to complement grilled chicken, steak, or even seafood. You’ll love how the bold flavor of kale pairs with the tangy dressing and rich cheese. Get the recipe: Kale Caesar Salad
3. Sautéed Kale with Garlic and Lemon
Sometimes the simplest preparation is the best, and sautéed kale with garlic and lemon is a prime example. Fresh kale is quickly sautéed with garlic in olive oil until tender, then finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. The garlic adds depth of flavor, while the lemon balances the earthiness of the kale with a refreshing zing. This quick and easy side dish is full of flavor and makes a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Get the recipe: Sautéed Kale with Garlic and Lemon
4. Kale and Quinoa Salad
This nutrient-packed salad combines hearty quinoa with fresh kale, making it a filling and flavorful side dish. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, the combination of the nutty quinoa and the earthy kale is both satisfying and refreshing. You can add roasted vegetables, nuts, or seeds for extra texture and flavor. This is a great make-ahead salad that will stay fresh in the fridge for a couple of days, making it perfect for meal prep. Get the recipe: Kale and Quinoa Salad
5. Kale and Sweet Potato Mash
Sweet potatoes and kale are a match made in heaven! This dish combines the earthy flavors of sautéed kale with creamy mashed sweet potatoes. The sweetness of the potatoes balances the slightly bitter taste of the kale, creating a harmonious and flavorful side. With a touch of butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of black pepper, this mash is the perfect healthy accompaniment to any roasted meat or veggie main. Get the recipe: Kale and Sweet Potato Mash
6. Kale Pesto
Why not use kale to make a twist on the classic pesto? This kale pesto is packed with flavor, thanks to fresh kale, garlic, nuts (pine nuts or walnuts work well), Parmesan cheese, and a splash of olive oil. Blend all the ingredients together, and you’ll have a vibrant green sauce that can be tossed with pasta, drizzled over roasted vegetables, or used as a dip for crusty bread. It’s a healthy, flavorful way to incorporate kale into your meal. Get the recipe: Kale Pesto
7. Kale and Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew combines kale with chickpeas and vegetables in a flavorful broth, making it a perfect side dish to serve with a light main course. The chickpeas provide protein and texture, while the kale soaks up the rich flavors of the stew. You can add tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a pinch of smoked paprika to elevate the flavor profile. This dish is perfect for a cozy fall or winter meal and is both comforting and nourishing. Get the recipe: Kale and Chickpea Stew
8. Kale, Apple, and Walnut Salad
For a refreshing, crunchy salad, try this kale, apple, and walnut salad. The sweetness of the apples pairs beautifully with the slight bitterness of the kale, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. Tossed in a light vinaigrette made with apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard, this salad is both flavorful and refreshing. It makes an excellent side to roasted meats or even as a light lunch on its own.
Get the recipe: Kale, Apple, and Walnut Salad
9. Kale and Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are delicious on their own, but when combined with crispy bacon and sautéed kale, they become an irresistible side dish. The smoky bacon adds richness to the slightly bitter Brussels sprouts and kale, and a touch of balsamic vinegar helps balance the flavors. This side is both savory and hearty, making it the perfect accompaniment to any steak or roasted chicken dinner. Get the recipe: Kale and Bacon Brussels Sprouts
10. Kale and Avocado Salad
This kale and avocado salad is a fresh and creamy side dish that’s packed with healthy fats and flavor. The creamy avocado balances the heartiness of the kale, and a simple lemon dressing brings all the ingredients together. You can add other ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or radishes for added crunch and flavor. This salad is light, refreshing, and pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a standalone dish. Get the recipe: Kale and Avocado Salad
11. Kale and Roasted Carrot Salad
The sweetness of roasted carrots complements the earthiness of kale in this simple yet flavorful salad. The carrots are roasted until tender and caramelized, then tossed with fresh kale and a tangy vinaigrette. For added flavor, top with roasted nuts or seeds. This salad makes a great side dish for any holiday meal or dinner gathering, offering a healthy and vibrant addition to your table. Get the recipe: Kale and Roasted Carrot Salad
12. Kale Feta Stuffed Portobello Mushroom Caps
Stuffed mushrooms are a delicious appetizer or side dish, and when filled with a mixture of sautéed kale and crumbled feta cheese, they become even more flavorful. The earthy mushrooms provide a perfect base for the creamy feta and tender kale, creating a bite-sized treat that’s both satisfying and healthy. These stuffed mushrooms are great for parties, gatherings, or as an elegant side to a simple weeknight dinner. Get the recipe: Kale Feta Stuffed Portobello Mushroom Caps
13. Kale and Corn Succotash
Succotash is a classic Southern dish made with fresh vegetables like corn, lima beans, and peppers. Adding kale to the mix turns this dish into a nutrient-packed side that’s both delicious and healthy. The kale soaks up the flavors of the other vegetables, while the sweetness of the corn provides a natural contrast. This dish is perfect as a side for grilled meats or seafood, offering a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. Get the recipe: Kale and Corn Succotash
14. Kale and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells
Large pasta shells filled with ricotta cheese and sautéed kale make for an indulgent yet healthy side dish. The kale adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the creamy ricotta, while the pasta shells provide the perfect bite. Topped with marinara sauce or a light drizzle of olive oil, these stuffed shells are both comforting and nutritious, making them a perfect side for Italian-inspired meals or roasted meats.
Get the recipe: Kale and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells
Kale is one of those superfoods that’s both delicious and versatile, and these 14 kale side dishes are proof that healthy food doesn’t have to be bland or boring. Whether you’re looking for a simple sauté, a hearty stew, or a vibrant salad, kale can be the star of any meal. These dishes prove that with the right ingredients and a bit of creativity, kale can be transformed into a flavorful, nutrient-packed side that you’ll crave time and time again. So next time you’re planning your meal, don’t forget to add kale to the menu—your taste buds (and your body) will thank you!