Chopped Kale Broccoli Salad with Peanut Dressing
Whenever I’m in need of a refreshing dish, I turn to my favorite Chopped Kale Broccoli Salad with Peanut Dressing. This vibrant salad has become a staple in my kitchen for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Imagine sitting on the porch during a sunny afternoon, enjoying a big bowl of this colorful salad, packed with crunchy vegetables and a luscious peanut dressing. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of greens! I love experimenting with different vegetables, but the combination of kale, broccoli, and a touch of peanut butter creates a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Every bite is a delightful mix of freshness and creaminess that leaves you craving more. This dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual lunch or a family dinner, it never fails to impress. I often find myself making this salad for gatherings; everyone loves the crunchy textures and tangy dressing. Plus, it’s an excellent way to get in those greens without it feeling like a chore!
The peanut dressing is what truly makes this salad shine. A little bit of sweetness from the honey and a kick from the ginger balance out the nutty flavor beautifully. And the best part? You can make this salad in advance! Just let it marinate to allow the flavors to meld together, and you’ll have an amazing dish waiting for you whenever you need it.
Recipe Snapshot
20 mins
20 mins
0 mins
Easy
220 kcal
7 g
Keto, Whole30, Low FODMAP
10 g
Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Whisk, Grater
What We Adore About This Chopped Kale Broccoli Salad with Peanut Dressing
Nutrition Powerhouse
The Chopped Kale Broccoli Salad with Peanut Dressing is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. Kale is known for its high vitamin K and C content, while broccoli offers fiber and an array of vitamins. This salad helps you hit your daily nutrient goals without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile and Customizable
This recipe stands out because of its versatility. You can easily swap in other vegetables like spinach or arugula based on what you have on hand. The dressing can also be adapted to your taste by adding a splash of lime juice or a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Quick and Easy
With minimal prep time, this salad can be thrown together in a flash. The hardest part is chopping the veggies, which is a breeze with a good knife. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This salad is a meal prep dream. Make a big batch and portion it out for lunches throughout the week. The flavors only get better as they sit, making it a fantastic option for those who like to plan ahead.
Great for Entertaining
When you have friends over, serving this salad makes a statement. It’s colorful, looks beautiful on the table, and is loved by both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. People will rave about the dressing, and you’ll enjoy showing off your culinary skills!
A Crowd-Pleaser
No matter the occasion, this salad is sure to impress. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a winter gathering, the Chopped Kale Broccoli Salad with Peanut Dressing is always a hit. It’s light yet satisfying, making it a great starter or side dish!
Recipe Ingredients for Chopped Kale Broccoli Salad with Peanut Dressing

This salad is a wonderful blend of fresh ingredients that come together to create a satisfying dish. Each component plays a vital role, with the crunchy kale and broccoli forming a nutritious base complemented by the creamy peanut butter dressing. The addition of colorful veggies like red cabbage, cucumber, and carrots provides a variety of textures and flavors.
- 3 cups shredded kale, ribs removed – A nutrient-dense leafy green that adds crunch and color.
- 3 cups finely chopped broccoli florets – Packed with vitamins, this adds a delightful texture and flavor.
- 1 cup chopped red cabbage – Adds a beautiful color and a slight crunch.
- 1 cup diced cucumber – Provides freshness and hydration.
- 1 cup diced red pepper – Sweet and crispy, it enhances the salad’s flavor.
- 1 cup shredded carrots – Their sweetness balances the salad and contributes to its vibrant color.
- 1 avocado, chopped – Creamy and rich, it takes the salad to the next level.
- 3 green onions, sliced – Adds a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro – Provides a burst of freshness and aroma.
- 1/2 cup roughly chopped salted peanuts – Crunchy and nutty, they add a delightful texture.
- Garnish: Extra peanuts, Thai basil and/or mint, optional – These add freshness for presentation.
- 1/3 cup natural creamy peanut butter – The key ingredient for the dressing, adding richness.
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce (can use coconut aminos) – Adds a savory umami flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice – Brings acidity to balance the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon honey – A touch of sweetness that complements the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Offers a slight tang that brightens the dressing.
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger – Adds a warm, spicy note.
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced – Enhances the flavor of the dressing.
- Dash of crushed red pepper flakes – Optional, for those who like a little heat.
- 3 tablespoons water, to thin dressing – Adjusts the dressing’s consistency.
Instructions for Chopped Kale Broccoli Salad with Peanut Dressing

Making this salad is a breeze, and you’ll love how quickly everything comes together. Start with your veggies and the dressing, and let the magic happen! Each step is essential to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded kale, broccoli florets, chopped red cabbage, diced cucumber, diced red pepper, shredded carrots, chopped avocado, sliced green onion, chopped cilantro, and roughly chopped salted peanuts. Toss everything together gently to mix the ingredients, making sure the colorful veggies are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the natural creamy peanut butter, low sodium soy sauce, fresh lime juice, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, finely minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and water. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and creamy, and the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss well to combine. Make sure every piece of vegetable is coated with the delicious peanut dressing. The combination of flavors is going to be fantastic!
- For best results, let the salad sit for 15 to 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the veggies to soften slightly, making every bite even more enjoyable.
- When ready to serve, give the salad another gentle toss. If needed, you can add a splash of water to the dressing to thin it out or adjust the seasoning to your taste. Enjoy this vibrant and nutritious salad!
Things Worth Knowing
- Tip 1: Always wash your vegetables thoroughly. This ensures that you remove any dirt or pesticides, making your salad healthier and more enjoyable.
- Tip 2: For extra flavor, consider adding toasted sesame seeds or sunflower seeds as a garnish. They enhance the dish’s nutty taste.
- Tip 3: If you want a protein boost, feel free to add some cooked chicken or tofu to the salad. This will turn it into a more filling meal.
- Tip 4: Experiment with different types of greens. You can mix in spinach or arugula for a different flavor profile.
Substitutions and Tips

There are countless ways to customize this salad to fit your taste preferences. Here are some useful tips:
- Storage: This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just mix it well before serving again.
- Freezing: While it’s not recommended to freeze the salad due to the fresh vegetables, you can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
- Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. Serve it as a refreshing side dish to complement your main course.
- Vegetarian Option: To make it vegetarian-friendly, just skip any meat additions and enjoy the salad as is!
- Flavor Variations: If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding sriracha or chili paste to the dressing for an extra kick.
How to Serve Chopped Kale Broccoli Salad with Peanut Dressing
Serving the Chopped Kale Broccoli Salad with Peanut Dressing is as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to enjoy this delightful dish:
- As a Main Course: This salad can easily serve as a light main dish, especially with the addition of protein like grilled chicken or crispy tofu.
- As a Side Dish: It makes for a fantastic side at barbecues or family dinners. Its vibrant colors will add a beautiful touch to your table.
- Perfect for Lunch: Pack it for a healthy office lunch or picnic. It’s filling enough to keep you energized throughout the day!
- Great for Gatherings: Impress your guests by serving this salad at parties or gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
- Seasonal Pairings: During warmer months, pair this salad with grilled meats or seafood. In colder weather, it complements hearty soups beautifully.
- Garnishes: Top with additional peanuts or fresh herbs, like Thai basil or mint, for an extra pop of flavor.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Chopped Kale Broccoli Salad with Peanut Dressing is a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and nutrients, making it a standout dish for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its fresh, vibrant taste. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of healthy eating that you and your loved ones will adore.

Chopped Kale Broccoli Salad with Peanut Dressing
Equipment
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Whisk
- Grater
Ingredients
- 3 cups shredded kale ribs removed
- 3 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup chopped red cabbage
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup diced red pepper
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 avocado chopped
- 3 green onions sliced
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup roughly chopped salted peanuts
- Garnish: Extra peanuts, Thai basil and/or mint optional
- 1/3 cup natural creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce can use coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic finely minced
- Dash of crushed red pepper flakes
- 3 tablespoons water to thin dressing
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded kale, broccoli florets, chopped red cabbage, diced cucumber, diced red pepper, shredded carrots, chopped avocado, sliced green onion, chopped cilantro, and roughly chopped salted peanuts. Toss everything together gently to mix the ingredients, making sure the colorful veggies are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the natural creamy peanut butter, low sodium soy sauce, fresh lime juice, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, finely minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and water. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and creamy, and the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss well to combine. Make sure every piece of vegetable is coated with the delicious peanut dressing. The combination of flavors is going to be fantastic!
- For best results, let the salad sit for 15 to 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the veggies to soften slightly, making every bite even more enjoyable.
- When ready to serve, give the salad another gentle toss. If needed, you can add a splash of water to the dressing to thin it out or adjust the seasoning to your taste. Enjoy this vibrant and nutritious salad!


