July 1, 2026 · 15 min

Sweet Kale Salad with Garlic Croutons and Poppyseed Dressing

Lunch15 min222 cal / serving

This vibrant salad brings together a medley of greens including kale, green cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and chicory, tossed with roasted pumpkin seeds and sweet dried cranberries. The star of the show is the crunchy, buttery garlic croutons that add a satisfying toasty crunch.

Perfect for a quick lunch or a festive side, this salad is dressed with a poppyseed dressing that ties all the flavors together. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a variety of textures and tastes in every bite.


Recipe details

Lunch15 min222 cal / serving4 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories222 kcalProtein2.1 gFat15.5 gCarbs18 gSugar5 gFiber1 gSodium402 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: containsFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: containsSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Demi-Baguette2 unit Demi-BaguetteView ingredient guide
Garlic Herb Butter2 ounce Garlic Herb ButterView ingredient guide
Sweet Kale Salad Kit2 unit Sweet Kale Salad KitView ingredient guide
SaltSalt, to tasteView ingredient guide
PepperPepper, to tasteView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and adjust a rack to the top position.
  2. Place the garlic herb butter in a small microwave-safe bowl and microwave until melted, about 45-60 seconds.
  3. Slice the demi-baguettes lengthwise, then cut into ½-inch cubes. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle with the melted garlic herb butter and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Toast the croutons on the top rack until golden and crispy, about 5-10 minutes. Let them cool slightly.
  5. In a large bowl, empty the contents of the sweet kale salad kits (including the dressing packet). Add the toasted croutons and drizzle with as much dressing as you like. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Tips

For extra crunch, toast the croutons a bit longer, but watch them closely to prevent burning.

If you prefer a lighter dressing, start with half the packet and add more to taste.

The salad can be served immediately or chilled for a few minutes if you like it colder.

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best to add the croutons and dressing just before serving to keep the croutons crunchy. You can prep the salad mix and croutons separately and combine when ready.

What can I substitute for the garlic herb butter?

You can use regular butter mixed with a pinch of garlic powder and dried herbs like parsley or thyme.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly. Check the salad kit ingredients to ensure it aligns with your dietary needs.

DandyRecipes community

Rate and discuss this recipe

Your rating and comments help other DandyRecipes readers decide what to cook next.

Your recipe vote

No DandyRecipes user votes yet.

Recipe comments

0 DandyRecipes comments

No DandyRecipes comments yet.

More recipe ideas

12 similar recipes you might like

These suggestions are based on shared ingredients, meal type, and recipe metadata.