Let’s talk salad but not just any salad. We’re talking about the kind that’s hearty, flavorful, and dressed to impress (literally). This Kale and Couscous Salad with Creamy Cashew Dressing is what happens when healthy meets delicious and decides to throw a party. It’s fresh, it’s filling, and it’s got this silky, dreamy dressing that makes every bite sing.

Think of it as your go-to feel-good meal perfect for lunch prep, light dinners, or when you just need something satisfying without being heavy. You’ve got chewy pearl couscous, tender kale, crisp veggies, and a luscious cashew dressing that’s so good you’ll want to drizzle it on everything. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love Kale and Couscous Salad with Creamy Cashew Dressing

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients – it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or a side serve it warm or cold, it’s fabulous either way.

Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry ingredients meet seasonal produce for an affordable, nourishing meal.

Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in under 30 minutes meal prep win!

Customizable: Add chickpeas, swap the kale for spinach, or throw in dried fruit for sweetness.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Kale and Couscous Salad with Creamy Cashew Dressing

This salad is all about fresh ingredients and bold, balanced flavors. Here’s what makes it shine:

Kale: A nutritional powerhouse that softens beautifully when massaged and adds a hearty, earthy bite.

Pearl Couscous: Also known as Israeli couscous, these little pearls are chewy and satisfying perfect for a hearty salad base.

Red Bell Pepper: Adds crunch and a pop of color, along with subtle sweetness.

Cucumber: Cool, crisp, and refreshing balances out the richness of the dressing.

Green Onions or Red Onion: Brings a zesty bite that lifts the whole dish.

Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Mint): Brighten things up and add a fresh, vibrant note.

Cashew Dressing: A creamy, dreamy blend of soaked cashews, lemon juice, garlic, a hint of mustard, and water. It’s silky, tangy, and dairy-free magic.

Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and zesty flavor throughout.

Olive Oil: Helps soften the kale and adds a silky finish.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Cook the Couscous: Start by cooking the pearl couscous according to the package instructions. Drain and let it cool slightly while you prep the other ingredients.

Prep the Kale: Remove the tough stems from the kale, chop the leaves, and massage them with a little olive oil and lemon juice until tender. This softens the kale and makes it more enjoyable to eat.

Make the Dressing: In a blender, combine soaked cashews, lemon juice, garlic, mustard, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with more water if needed and season with salt to taste.

Chop the Veggies: Dice the cucumber, bell pepper, and onion. Roughly chop your herbs. Keep everything colorful and bite-sized.

Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the cooked couscous, massaged kale, chopped veggies, and herbs. Drizzle generously with the creamy cashew dressing and toss to coat.

Chill or Serve: You can serve this salad right away or chill it for a couple of hours to let the flavors meld. It’s amazing either way!

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~380–420 calories
(Note: approximate values may vary based on ingredients used)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Kale and Couscous Salad with Creamy Cashew Dressing

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

– Serve it as a standalone lunch or light dinner
– Pair it with grilled tofu, salmon, or chicken for extra protein
– Add some toasted nuts or seeds on top for extra crunch
– Make it part of a Mediterranean-style spread with hummus, pita, and olives
– Pack it up for lunch it holds up beautifully and tastes even better the next day

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

– Soak cashews in hot water for 10–15 minutes if you’re short on time
– Use baby kale for a more tender option that requires less massaging
– Add raisins or dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness
– Don’t skip massaging the kale it really transforms the texture
– Store leftover dressing in a jar in the fridge it’s great on everything!

FAQ’s

1 Can I use regular couscous instead of pearl couscous?
Yes, but the texture will be softer and finer. Pearl couscous holds up better in salads.

2 How long does this salad last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days! The kale holds up really well, even with dressing.

3 Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

4 Is the dressing vegan?
Yes! It’s completely dairy-free and vegan thanks to the cashews.

5 What can I use instead of cashews?
Try sunflower seeds for a nut-free option, or use tahini for a different flavor.

6 Can I add protein to make it more filling?
Totally. Chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu are all great additions.

7 Do I need a high-powered blender for the dressing?
A standard blender works fine if the cashews are soaked long enough.

8 Can I substitute kale with spinach?
Yes, baby spinach works beautifully and requires no massaging.

9 Will kids enjoy this salad?
If they like couscous and creamy dressings, it’s a win! You can chop everything smaller for easier bites.

10 Can I serve it warm?
Yes! Serve the couscous warm for a cozy version, just wait a few minutes before adding the dressing.

Conclusion

Kale and Couscous Salad with Creamy Cashew Dressing is proof that salads don’t have to be boring or basic. It’s fresh, filling, and layered with flavor in every bite from the tender greens to the chewy couscous and that knockout dressing. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or meal-prepping for the week, this salad brings feel-good vibes to the table. So go ahead, grab a fork, and dig into something deliciously wholesome.

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