Massaged Kale Black Beans (Printable)

Tender kale and roasted sweet potato combine with black beans and a zesty lime dressing.

# What you'll need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced (approx. 2 cups)
02 - 1 large bunch kale, stems removed and chopped (approx. 6 cups)
03 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
04 - 1 avocado, diced

→ Beans

05 - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

→ Dressing

06 - 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
07 - 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
08 - 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
09 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
10 - 1/4 tsp ground cumin
11 - 1/2 tsp sea salt
12 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Optional Toppings

13 - 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
14 - 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese (omit for vegan)

# How to make it:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Toss diced sweet potato with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and lightly browned. Allow to cool slightly.
03 - Place chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Massage with clean hands for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and darkened.
04 - Whisk together lime juice, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, cumin, salt, pepper, and remaining olive oil in a small bowl until combined.
05 - Add black beans, roasted sweet potato, red onion, and avocado to the massaged kale. Drizzle with dressing and gently toss to combine.
06 - Sprinkle pumpkin seeds and feta cheese over the salad if desired. Serve immediately.

# Expert suggestions:

01 -
  • Loaded with fiber and plant-based protein
  • Massaged kale is tender and delicious
02 -
  • Kale is most tender when massaged with olive oil and salt
  • Be sure sweet potato is fully cooled before tossing to prevent wilting
03 -
  • Make the salad ahead, but add avocado right before serving
  • Add extra veggies like radish or carrot for crunch
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