15-Minute Kale Salad with Cranberries and Pistachios

This fresh Kale Salad with Cranberries and Pistachios is just unexpected enough to feel special! With ultra-crunchy pistachios instead of the usual pecans or walnuts, and salty parmesan instead of goat cheese, it’s a bold twist on a classic. Simply toss with massaged kale, tart-sweet cranberries, and a homemade maple balsamic vinaigrette! A great fall salad, festive holiday side dish, or satisfying weekday lunch. Ready in 15 minutes or less.

Recipe by Jess Larson on October 8, 2025

Prep time: PT15M

Total time: PT15M

Rating

5 stars ( reviews)

Keywords

kale salad, maple vinaigrette, homemade salad dressing, holiday side dishes, winter salad, fall salad, pistachio kale salad

Ingredients

maple balsamic vinaigrette, below
1 bunch kale, destemmed and shredded or finely chopped (about 3 cups chopped)
1 large shallot, thinly sliced⁠
⅓ cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
⅓ cup toasted pistachios, roughly chopped
⅓ cup shaved parmesan⁠ cheese
kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup aged balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon finely chopped hardy fresh herbs, such as oregano, rosemary, sage, or thyme (can substitute 1 teaspoon dried herbs)
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season

Cuisine

American

Steps

Combine all listed ingredients in a small bowl or jar, seasoning with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and ground black pepper as desired. Whisk or shake to combine. Taste and season with additional kosher salt or ground black pepper as desired. Set aside, or store in an airtight container in the the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Place the shredded or finely chopped kale in a large bowl, topping with the thinly sliced shallots and a good pinch of salt. Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the prepared maple balsamic vinaigrette over top. Use your hands to massage the kale, working the vinaigrette into the leaves until they’re vibrant green and wilted slightly. Set aside. Learn more! ⇢ How to Massage Kale
To the bowl with the massaged kale, add the chopped cranberries, toasted pistachios, shaved parmesan, and another good drizzle of maple balsamic vinaigrette. Toss to combine well. Taste and season with additional salt and ground black pepper as needed. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Nutitrion

Calories: 284 calories
Carbohydrates: 22.3 g
Protein: 5.4 g
Fat: 20.7 g
Saturated Fat: 3.8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Cholesterol: 4.8 mg
Sodium: 278.3 mg
Sugar: 16.4 g

Reviews

Amy M on 2025-10-16 (5 stars):
Delicious and so easy! Added roasted delicata squash, roasted beets and farro to turn it into a hearty meal - so great!! Thank you for another winning meal!