Ina Garten’s Kale Salad is a fresh and satisfying dish that transforms hearty kale leaves into a tender, flavorful salad with the help of a zesty lemon vinaigrette, nutty Parmesan, and crunchy toasted breadcrumbs or nuts. It’s healthy, delicious, and elegant enough to serve at a dinner party or enjoy as a weekday lunch.

Simple ingredients, a bold dressing, and Ina’s signature ease make this salad a go-to for any season.

What Is Ina Garten’s Kale Salad?

Ina’s kale salad typically features finely shredded or massaged kale tossed with a lemon-based vinaigrette, Parmesan cheese, and crispy toppings like toasted nuts or breadcrumbs. The dressing softens the kale, while the add-ins create texture and depth.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Kale Salad

Nutrient-dense and satisfying – Packed with fiber and vitamins
Bold, bright dressing – Brings the greens to life
Simple ingredients, big flavor – Easy to prep and customize
Perfect as a side or light main – Works in any meal plan
Make-ahead friendly – Holds up well without wilting
Elegant presentation – Looks and tastes gourmet
Pairs with everything – From roasted meats to pasta

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Kale Salad

1 bunch lacinato (Tuscan) kale, stemmed and finely chopped
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
¼ cup good olive oil
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup toasted breadcrumbs or chopped toasted almonds (optional)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Kale Salad

Step 1: Prepare the kale

Remove the stems from the kale and finely chop or shred the leaves. Place in a large bowl.

Step 2: Make the vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until fully emulsified.

Step 3: Massage the kale

Pour the dressing over the chopped kale. Use clean hands to massage the kale for 1–2 minutes. This helps soften the texture and reduce bitterness.

Step 4: Add cheese and toppings

Sprinkle in the Parmesan and toss gently. Top with toasted breadcrumbs or almonds if using.

Step 5: Serve

Let the salad sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Kale Salad

Grilled chicken or salmon – Adds protein and flavor
Pasta with olive oil or pesto – Light and fresh combo
Roast turkey or pork – Great holiday side
Quiche or frittata – Ideal for brunch
Lentil or white bean soup – Nutritious pairing
Rustic bread or flatbread – For a satisfying meal
Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry Rosé – Refreshing wine match

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Kale Salad

Use Tuscan kale (lacinato) – It’s more tender and flavorful than curly kale
Massage well with dressing – Key for softening the texture
Let the salad rest – Improves flavor and consistency
Add dressing slowly – Start with less, add more as needed
Toast nuts or breadcrumbs for crunch – Adds depth
Use fresh lemon juice and zest – Brightens the whole salad
Grate Parmesan fresh – Best taste and texture

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Kale Salad

Add dried cranberries or raisins – Sweet contrast
Include sliced apples or pears – For fall-inspired flavor
Top with avocado – Creamy texture and healthy fats
Use goat cheese or feta – Adds tanginess
Sprinkle in sunflower or pumpkin seeds – For extra crunch
Toss with cooked farro or quinoa – Turns it into a full meal
Drizzle with honey for balance – Especially if using bitter kale

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten’s Kale Salad

Store in an airtight container in the fridge – Best within 2 days
Add nuts or breadcrumbs just before serving – Keeps them crisp
Dressing can be made ahead separately – Store up to 1 week
Massage and refrigerate kale up to 24 hours ahead – It holds up well

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Kale Salad

No reheating needed – Best served chilled or at room temperature
Let it come to room temp before serving leftovers – Improves texture
Add fresh cheese or toppings before eating – Keeps flavors vibrant

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 210
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 280mg

A healthy, delicious salad that’s full of fiber, antioxidants, and flavor.

FAQs

What type of kale is best for Ina Garten’s kale salad?

Lacinato kale (also called Tuscan or dinosaur kale) is best due to its tender texture and slightly sweeter flavor compared to curly kale.

Do I need to massage the kale before making the salad?

Yes, massaging the kale with dressing helps break down its fibers, making it softer, less bitter, and more pleasant to eat raw.

Can I make kale salad ahead of time?

Yes, kale holds up well after being dressed. You can make it a few hours—or even a day—ahead and refrigerate until ready to serve.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs in kale salad?

Toasted nuts like almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds make a great crunchy substitute for breadcrumbs.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Kale Salad is a go-to recipe when you want something nutritious, flavorful, and elegant. With bold lemony dressing, a touch of cheese, and satisfying texture, this salad proves that simple ingredients can make a memorable dish. Perfect as a side or a standalone meal, it’s easy to make and hard to forget.