Kale Quinoa Cranberry Salad

Gut-friendly kale quinoa cranberry salad to support fiber variety.

High Fiber Leafy Greens Plant Based
90%

General Gut Health Match

This score is based on all ingredients included in the food recipe and provides a match score for the general population which is not personalized to your personal profile or gut microbiome test.

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Recipe description

Vibrant kale, protein-packed quinoa, and tart cranberries come together in a fiber-rich salad that shines on weeknights. The mix delivers diverse plant fibers and polyphenols that can fit into a gut-friendly eating pattern, while being satisfying and easy to prepare. This salad supports gentle digestion and offers everyday balance through plant variety. It’s versatile for meals or meal prep, transports well, and pairs well with light dressings. A simple way to nurture fiber intake and enjoy colorful, nourishing greens.

June 12, 2026
Kale Quinoa Cranberry Salad
Prep 15 min Cook 15 min High Effort

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Why this recipe fits you

  • High fiber from kale, quinoa, and cranberries supports gut health.
  • Colorful plant foods provide polyphenols and dietary diversity.
  • Balanced with plant-based protein and healthy fats for steady energy.

Gut Health Score

🌿 Fiber diversity
85
🍇 Polyphenol density
80
🧬 Diversity support
78
🛡️ Inflammation support
82
🫧 Fermentation support
20
⚖️ Blood sugar stability
78

Ingredients

Kale
4 cup
Kale
Quinoa
1 serving spoon
Quinoa
Cranberry
0.5 bowl
Cranberry
Oil, olive
2 tablespoon
Oil, olive
Lemon juice
2 teaspoon
Lemon juice
Walnuts
0.5 cup
Walnuts
Feta cheese
0.5 cup
Feta cheese

Instructions

1

Rinse the quinoa under cold water and cook according to package instructions.

2

In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale and cooked quinoa.

3

Add the dried cranberries to the bowl.

4

Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper.

5

Toss everything together until well combined.

6

Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for later.

Nutrition

420 kcal Calories
13 g Protein
52 g Carbohydrates
9 g Fiber
8 g Sugar
14 g Fat
2 g Saturated fat
0.9 g Salt

FAQ

What are the main ingredients and their benefits?
Kale, quinoa, and cranberries provide dietary fiber, plant protein, and antioxidants, plus vitamins and minerals to round out the dish.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes. It stores in the fridge for a few days and travels well. Add dressing just before serving to maintain texture.
Is it gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, naturally gluten-free if your quinoa is gluten-free and not cross-contaminated; it is vegan as written.
How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3–4 days. If possible, keep the dressing separate and add it before serving.
How can I customize or substitute ingredients?
Try adding nuts or seeds, swapping cranberries for dried cherries or berries, and adding fresh herbs. You can also include avocado, feta, or tofu.
How do I cook quinoa for this salad?
Rinse quinoa, cook in a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio for about 15 minutes, then fluff and cool.
Are there common allergens to watch for?
The base is generally allergen-friendly; if adding dressing, be mindful of nuts, seeds, or sesame. Cross-contamination is possible.
How many servings does this make?
Depending on portion size, it typically serves 4–6 as a side or 2–3 as a main.
What dressings pair well with this?
Light lemon vinaigrette, olive oil with lemon, or a balsamic dressing work well; keep dressings light so the quinoa stays fluffy.

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