Twelve Superfoods Salad Recipe

I’m really excited to share this Twelve Superfoods Salad Recipe with you because it’s one of those dishes that feels as good as it tastes. Packed with vibrant colors, textures, and flavors, it’s an easy way to get a powerhouse of nutrients all in one bowl. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing lunch, a healthy side, or a power-packed dinner, this salad shines every time.

What makes this Twelve Superfoods Salad Recipe special to me is how versatile and satisfying it is. The combination of crunchy nuts, sweet fruits, earthy kale, and creamy cheese with a zesty dressing truly hits the spot. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up after a busy day and you’ll love how it keeps you energized while tasting delicious!

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Ingredients & Why They Work

This Twelve Superfoods Salad Recipe uses a crowd-pleasing mix of nutrient-rich ingredients that bring freshness, texture, and bold flavors. When shopping, look for the freshest kale and ripe fruits to get the best results.

• Quinoa: A protein-packed grain base that adds a lovely nutty flavor and keeps the salad filling.
• Edamame: Provides a fresh, slightly sweet bite plus plant-based protein to boost nutrition.
• Curly Kale: The star leafy green here, it’s packed with vitamins and gets tender but still chewy when massaged or dressed.
• Blueberries: These sweet berries add bursts of juicy freshness and antioxidants.
• Red Grapes: Halved, they give a crisp texture and juicy sweetness that pairs perfectly with kale.
• Dried Cherries: Adds chewy tartness and a touch of natural sweetness to balance flavors.
• Feta, Goat, or Parmesan Cheese: A salty, creamy element that complements the sweet and tart fruits.
• Sunflower Seeds: Crunchy texture and a mild nutty flavor that adds contrast.
• Walnuts: Adds richness and heart-healthy fats with a satisfying crunch.
• Orange Juice: Fresh and bright, it forms the base of the tangy, slightly sweet dressing.
• Olive Oil: Brings silkiness to the dressing and balances acidity with richness.
• Greek Yogurt: Makes the dressing creamy and smooth without excess fat, plus adds a little tang.

Make It Your Way

I love that this Twelve Superfoods Salad Recipe feels so adaptable, so I often tweak the components based on what I have on hand or the season. You can easily swap out a couple of ingredients or add your own twist without losing that powerhouse nutrient profile.

• Variation: Sometimes I swap dried cherries for dried cranberries or raisins when I want a bit more tartness or sweetness, and it’s always a hit.
• Dietary Modifications: If you’re vegan, skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative, and you’ll still get great flavor and texture.
• Seasonal Changes: In winter, swapping blueberries for pomegranate seeds or diced apple keeps the salad bright and comforting.
• Protein Boost: Adding grilled chicken or tofu can turn this salad into a full meal, especially if you want something more substantial.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Twelve Superfoods Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa and Edamame

Start by cooking your quinoa exactly as the package instructs — usually with a 2:1 water to quinoa ratio. It’s key here not to overcook it because you want the grains fluffy but still with a little bite. When done, let it cool slightly before adding to the salad. Then, cook your frozen edamame; I steam or boil them quickly and drain well. Don’t skip this step—these green soybeans add a wonderful texture and punch of protein.

Step 2: Prepare Your Greens and Fruits

While the grains cook, shower your curly kale and pat dry. I like to tear the bigger leaves into bite-sized pieces and remove thick stems, which can be a bit tough. This makes the salad way easier to eat. Add your blueberries, halved red grapes, and chopped dried cherries—all these fruits bring juicy bursts and sweetness that balance the hearty kale and quinoa beautifully.

Step 3: Mix the Nuts and Cheese

Once your fruits and kale are ready, toss in the sunflower seeds, chopped walnuts, and your choice of cheese—feta is my favorite because it’s tangy and creamy. These ingredients bring crunch and creaminess, making every bite interesting. Make sure your nuts are unsalted so you can better control the overall seasoning.

Step 4: Whip Up the Dressing

Place orange juice, olive oil, garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper into a mason jar with a lid and shake it vigorously for about 1-2 minutes until everything emulsifies nicely. Then add your Greek yogurt and shake again until you get a creamy, smooth dressing. This step ensures the flavors meld well and that the dressing coats every bit of the salad perfectly.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Add the desired amount of dressing to your salad bowl and toss thoroughly to distribute the dressing evenly. Give it a taste — this salad benefits from a slightly saltier dressing to balance the kale’s earthiness. Serve immediately so the kale stays fresh and crisp.

How to Serve Twelve Superfoods Salad Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a few extra walnuts or sunflower seeds on top just before serving for that fresh crunch. Sometimes, I add a few fresh herb sprigs like parsley or mint to brighten it up. A little extra crumbled cheese on top offers a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or roasted fish for a nourishing meal. If you want to keep things plant-based, roasted sweet potatoes or a warm lentil side dish complement it beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve this salad layered in a clear glass trifle bowl so the colors pop beautifully. Another fun idea is assembling individual salad jars for picnics or lunches on the go—just-pack the dressing separately to keep it fresh.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, but I usually keep the dressing separate and toss the salad fresh before eating. This keeps the kale crisp and avoids sogginess, especially if you’re saving it for the next day.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing this salad because the fresh fruits, nuts, and kale won’t freeze well and will lose their texture and quality. Instead, it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you add cooked protein, reheat that separately and serve it alongside the salad.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Twelve Superfoods Salad Recipe is one I kept coming back to because it’s just so nourishing and fun to eat. It’s the kind of salad that feels like a little celebration of healthy, fresh ingredients, perfect for whenever you want a delicious boost. I’m certain you’ll enjoy making it your own and sharing it around your table as much as I do in mine.

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