Spinach and Kale Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing

This spinach and kale salad is hearty, filling, and loaded with texture and flavor. The homemade sun-dried tomato dressing adds a bright and tangy element to the dark leafy greens and fresh veggies, creating a dynamic and satisfying dish that is ready in a matter of minutes.

a nutritious salad with tons of flavor

I love a salad that has it all: crisp greens, crunchy vegetables, flavorful toppings, and a zesty dressing to bring the elements together. 

This spinach and kale salad definitely fits the bill. Not only is it packed with nutrients from the leafy greens, but the sun-dried tomato dressing adds a burst of vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats.

In fact, it's a salad that fits my "really great salad" formula, which I outlined in my newsletter , At the Table. 

Like my Summer Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad with Arugula and Dill Pickle Egg Salad, this meal offers instant gratification with minimal effort.

It makes a great side dish but can also be enjoyed as the main event as is or paired with protein of your choice (I always opt for the added protein!).

This kale and spinach salad is anything but boring. It is topped with crunchy vegetables, spicy pepperoncini, and savory bacon, enhanced with toasted walnuts, creamy avocado, and shaved Parmesan.

The sun-dried tomato dressing is simple and one of my favorites-- its bold flavor makes each bite satisfying and delicious!

why this recipe works

To me, the perfect salad should have the macro and micronutrients needed for a well-balanced meal. No one likes a salad that leaves them craving more, and this recipe has got it all covered.  

Spinach and kale are both nutrient powerhouses, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, calcium, and fiber.

The onion, cucumber, and tomatoes add a nice crunch and boost of antioxidants.

The bacon adds some protein, while the walnuts, avocado, and feta provide heart-healthy fats.

You also can't beat the perks of using a homemade sun-dried tomato dressing.

It's made from a handful of ingredients that are free of preservatives and additives, making it a healthier option than anything you'd find at the grocery store. Plus, the flavors are bolder and more vibrant when made fresh!

This spinach and kale salad is:

• Super quick and easy to make — have it ready in 10 minutes;
• Packed with nutrients and balanced macros for a satisfying meal;
• Made even better with a homemade sun-dried tomato dressing;
• Full of flavor and texture with the perfect combination of ingredients.

spinach and kale salad ingredients

• Baby spinach. Baby spinach leaves are more tender and have a milder taste compared to regular spinach, making them perfect for salads.
• Lacinato kale. You'll need a small bunch of kale, with the kale stem removed and the leaves chopped small. I like lacinato kale, also called dinosaur kale or Tuscan kale. The kale leaves have a slightly nutty and sweet flavor that complements the spinach well. 
• Red onion. Nice and crunchy while also adding a pop of color and flavor to the salad. 
• Cucumber. The cool and refreshing cucumber adds a nice contrast to the other ingredients.
• Tomatoes. Choose juicy, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
• Pepperoncinis. These pickled peppers add a tangy and spicy kick.
• Bacon. Crumbled bacon takes this salad to the next level by adding a savory and smoky element.
• Toasted walnuts. Walnuts add a delicious crunch and heart-healthy fats.
• Avocado. A creamy and nutritious addition.
• Parmesan cheese. Shaved Parmesan makes an excellent addition to any salad. 
• Vinaigrette. I have an entire post dedicated to my sundried tomato vinaigrette, which is easy to make in advance. Simple dressing ingredients like extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, fresh lemon juice, sun-dried tomatoes and some seasonings are all you need. 

substitutions & additions

Spinach & kale: You can substitute the spinach for any type of tender greens, including a spring mix or tender lettuce. The Lacinato kale can be substituted for baby kale if you prefer a more tender leaf.

Curly kale and red kale are also good substitutes but are a little tougher and work better if massaged for a few minutes with a drizzle of olive oil. 

Parmesan cheese: Swap the parmesan cheese for creamy feta cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Other topping ideas: Feel free to add your favorite toppings to this salad, but if you need some ideas, sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, or even dried cranberries or sweet apple make excellent additions.

a simple spinach kale salad recipe

This kale and spinach salad is as simple as prep, toss, and serve.

Here's a quick rundown of the steps but be sure to view the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page for all of the details.

 Drizzle the dressing over the salad and serve.

tips for best results

• The dressing can be made ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. 

• I always recommend using a salad spinner to get all that excess water out. This is extra important with spinach, since the leaves tend to stick together and wilt quickly.

• Parmesan, feta, bacon, and sun-dried tomatoes in the dressing all have a natural saltiness, so this salad does not usually require extra salt. 

• This salad also tastes great with my balsamic basil vinaigrette or a simple balsamic dressing (I have a balsamic dijon mustard dressing in this keto steak salad post).

storage

Store any leftover ingredients in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This way, nothing will get soggy or wilted, and you can just toss your ingredients together when ready to eat. 

what to serve with spinach and kale salad

If you're dying to pair this tasty salad up with a starring protein, this salad would be a great addition to a main course like my Creamy Keto Tuscan Chicken, Reverse Seared Tomahawk Steak, or Mediterranean Cod with Tomatoes.

Or, go the soup and salad route with my Keto Tuscan Soup with Beef and Vegetables for an equally refreshing and cozy meal. 

you might also love

• This Tuscan kale salad has a tasty dressing made with lemon, garlic, and Parmesan. The kale softens just right to make a filling and hearty salad. It's great with chicken or salmon (especially smoked!) Or enjoy it as a yummy side dish. 

• The quintessential winter salad, this pomegranate feta salad with roasted broccolini, red onion, and pistachios is the perfect balance of fresh and hearty. A tangy lemon dressing and sweet shallots take it to the next level!

• Love Chick-fil-A, but trying to eat healthier? This copycat recipe of their famous Kale Crunch Salad is a must-try. Made with fresh kale and cabbage tossed in yummy olive oil and apple cider vinegar dressing, you'll be hooked on the first bite.