If winter meals start to feel a little heavy, this Sunshine Orange Kale Salad is your reminder that nourishment can still feel fresh, vibrant, and deeply satisfying.
Packed with leafy greens, juicy citrus, and a creamy tahini dressing, this glow-in-a-bowl salad delivers a powerful mix of fibre, healthy fats, and micronutrients - all while being quick to make and full of flavour. It’s the perfect balance of bright, zesty, and comforting, especially during colder months.
Kale is naturally rich in folate, magnesium, and vitamin K, nutrients that support energy levels, brain health, and overall well-being, while oranges add a hit of vitamin C and natural sweetness. The result? A salad that feels indulgent but leaves you feeling energised.
Why you’ll love it
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Immune-supporting ingredients – leafy greens, citrus, and healthy fats
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Quick & satisfying – minimal prep, big flavour
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Creamy without dairy – thanks to tahini and nutritional yeast
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Naturally vegan & gluten-free
Ingredients
For the salad
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1 bag kale, tough stalks removed
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2 oranges or 4 satsumas, peeled and segmented
Creamy dressing
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1 tbsp tahini
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1 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tbsp nutritional yeast
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1 tbsp ground flaxseed
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1 tsp apple cider vinegar
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A splash of water (to thin, if needed)
To finish
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1 heaped tbsp pine nuts
Method
1. Prepare the kale
Remove any tough stalks from the kale. Rinse the leaves briefly in just-boiled water to soften the texture and brighten the colour, then drain well.
2. Build the salad
Add the kale to a large bowl along with the orange segments.
3. Make the dressing
Combine all dressing ingredients in a bowl or jar and mix well until smooth. Add a splash of water if needed to reach a creamy, pourable consistency.
4. Massage & toss
Pour the dressing over the kale and oranges and massage gently with your hands until everything is well coated and the leaves soften further.
5. Finish & serve
Toast the pine nuts in a dry frying pan until golden. Sprinkle over the salad for a buttery crunch just before serving.
Pro tips
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Add protein: Top with roasted chickpeas or tempeh for a heartier meal
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Make it ahead: The flavours deepen beautifully after 30 minutes
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Seasonal swap: Try grapefruit or blood orange for a sharper citrus note
More about Julie
Balancing her time between private clients and NHS commitments, Julie offers support for those seeking evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle guidance for a wide range of chronic conditions, including weight management and gut health.