Serve Kale Salad alongside Crunchy BLT, Tangy Cucumber Salad, Crispy Lettuce and Kumquats, Coconut Rice and Tofu, and Crispy Tofu and Bulgur.
Crunchy BLT
BLT is a classic, and its name comes from the main ingredients - bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes.
For a lighter option, try Crispy Tofu and Bulgur. Crispy Tofu and Bulgur
Similar to the above-mentioned side dish, bulgur has the same hearty profile as rice.
Kale salad is the rock star of health food, amping up mealtime with its nutrient-packed leaves. We all need that green goodness in our lives.
Sometimes, though, kale's bold flavors need a backup band to truly shine. We're here to spotlight the perfect sidekicks.
Our kitchens have seen it all. From baking disasters to triumphs, the search for the ideal partners to our beloved kale salad has been real.
Laughter and a few lost spatulas later, we've curated a list that'll make your next meal a hit. These sides aren't just good; they're kale-level awesome.
7 Fresh Sides to Serve with Kale Salad
Here are some excellent side dishes when unsure what to serve with kale salad.
Fresh strawberries make a sweet, bright companion - fresh strawberries side ideas that complement leafy salads.
1. Crunchy BLT
BLT is a classic, and its name comes from the main ingredients - bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes - for more pairings try BLT side dish ideas.
While often described as a sandwich, BLT can come in more forms - you might as well get everything ready and serve on a plate.
The lettuce and bacon add a bit of crunchiness, while the soft and refreshing tomatoes keep the meal light.
Some people choose to leave the lettuce and replace it with kale salad, but this is not a general rule.
Make sure you prepare more bacon than what you need.
2. Tangy Cucumber Salad
This combo may not be the most fulfilling one, but it will make an excellent brunch or perhaps a light dinner - especially in the summertime, when you need refreshing foods.
The cucumber has the same refreshing aroma as the kale salad, yet it is way crunchier - pair with cucumber soup side options for a cool menu.
Since most of it is based on water, it will make the meal feel lighter.
To give this combo a tangy and slightly spicy profile, add a bit of ginger.
All in all, no matter what extra enhancements you go for, you can get it ready within minutes only.
3. Crispy Lettuce and Kumquats
This is another excellent dish if you want something light and refreshing.
It can be mixed into a heavier meal - or even a meaty one.
All in all, the lettuce works well with kale because they have a similar texture - see lettuce wrap side suggestions for more pairings.
Since the kale salad must be cooked first, the lettuce will feel a bit more refreshing.
Kumquats will give it a slightly sour aroma - excellent for the combo, but they will also make it feel a bit sweet.
It is not the type of sweetness that makes you feel nauseous, though, so feel free to exaggerate with the kumquats.
4. Coconut Rice and Tofu
A bit of rice will turn a light brunch into a proper lunch.
From all the different types of rice out there, coconut rice is the one that can impress - try it alongside coconut chicken side pairings for a tropical touch.
You do not want a classic taste, but the refreshing coconut flavor.
Tofu, on the other hand, can be a bit crispy - great with the crunchy kale and the soft rice.
Mix everything in, and you are likely to impress your audience.
The ingredient combination is suitable for those who appreciate something unusual or Asian cuisine.
5. Crispy Tofu and Bulgur
Similar to the above-mentioned side dish, bulgur has the same hearty profile as rice.
It is that special ingredient that will turn your simple salad into an actual meal.
On the other hand, tofu adds a bit of extra flavor and feels crispy on the outside and soft on the inside - match it with BBQ tofu side pairings for smoky contrast.
Everything should be mixed together for a proper meal, rather than have things separately.
While bulgur and tofu may seem a bit heavy, the kale salad will give this combo a refreshing flavor.
You can have this dish cold or hot - whatever you prefer. Most people have it hot, though.
6. Barley and Feta Cheese
This combo is aromatic, rich in different flavors, and extremely fulfilling - but without feeling heavy.
Barley has a chewy texture, as well as a nutty aroma - consider beef barley soup side ideas that echo those flavors.
Feta cheese annihilates it with its salty and refreshing profile.
Throw in lots of kale salad, and you have extra crispiness and refreshing flavors.
You can have things separately on more plates, so your guests can have as much as they want - but for a better mix, you should mix everything in the same bowl.
Barley is the only ingredient that takes more to prepare.
7. Wheat Berries and Onions
This is another great combo that can turn a plain dish into an actual meal.
Wheat berries will bring in a nutty and hearty aroma.
They are savory, and they will make the most consistent part of your dish.
On the other hand, onions will add a tangy profile without taking over from the kale - plus, they are slightly crispy, even when cooked.
Bring in the crunchy kale salad, and the whole dish will feel like a refreshing salad, despite its fulfilling consistency.
What else can you ask for?
Frequently Asked Questions
Crunchy BLT BLT is a classic, and its name comes from the main ingredients - bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes. The cucumber has the same refreshing aroma as the kale salad, yet it is way crunchier.
Most home cooks pick this because it adds contrast and rounds out the meal.
For large groups, go with sides that can be made in big batches and hold well at room temperature. Crunchy BLT BLT scales up easily.
Grain-based dishes and roasted vegetables stay good on a buffet without becoming soggy.
Not always. A vegetable-only pairing works when the main course already includes starch.
Add rice, bread, or potatoes only if the meal needs more substance.
Roasted frozen vegetables, pre-cooked grains, or a quick pan sauté all come together in under 15 minutes with minimal prep and no special equipment needed.
kale side dish roundup highlights ten compatible accompaniments. orzo salad side ideas offers additional pairings that work with light, grain-forward salads.