Heart Healthy Kale Sweet Potato and Quinoa Salad

(5.0)
By Judy Capodanno
Updated 1/25/2026
Dietitian Reviewed: Jane Schwartz, RDN, CLT
Approved for These Diets:
Heart Healthy | Gluten Free | Diabetic | Vegan | Vegetarian
Heart Healthy Kale Sweet Potato and Quinoa Salad
Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer

If you are looking for a nutrient-dense power bowl that satisfies savory cravings, this Heart Healthy Kale Sweet Potato and Quinoa Salad is the perfect answer. Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, this vibrant dish brings together tender cubes of roasted sweet potato, fluffy quinoa, and hardy kale leaves, all tossed in a fragrant ginger-soy dressing.

For more delicious dishes using one of our favorite root vegetables, enjoy exploring all of our healthy sweet potato recipes!

Total Time
45 minutes
Servings
8
Calories
141

What Makes This Kale, Sweet Potato and Quinoa Salad Healthy

This salad combines three powerhouse ingredients to create a complete, balanced meal in one bowl. The quinoa provides essential amino acids, while the sweet potatoes and kale offer a double dose of fiber and antioxidants. The dressing uses fresh ginger, which adds anti-inflammatory benefits without relying on heavy creams or excess sodium.

Key Health Highlights

  • Complete Plant Protein: Quinoa is one of the few plant foods that contains all nine essential amino acids.
  • Rich in Beta-Carotene: The orange flesh of sweet potatoes is loaded with Vitamin A, which supports vision and immune health.
  • High Fiber: Both kale and sweet potatoes are excellent sources of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and satiety.
  • Heart-Healthy Fats: A modest amount of olive oil helps your body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins (like Vitamin A and K) found in the vegetables.

FAQs About Sweet Potatoes and Kale with Quinoa

Yes! This combination is a nutritional powerhouse. The quinoa provides protein while the sweet potatoes offer complex carbs and vitamins, making for a very balanced and filling meal.

Yes, sweet potatoes must be cooked until tender before eating. In this recipe, they are sautéed until soft, but roasting or air frying works equally well.

Absolutely. Kale is a hardy green that holds up well to dressing without getting slimy quickly, unlike lettuce. It’s perfect for meal prep lunches.

It is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free Tamari or coconut aminos instead of traditional soy sauce (which often contains wheat).

Peeling is optional. The skin contains extra fiber and nutrients, but for a smoother texture in a salad, many people prefer them peeled. If leaving the skin on, scrub them thoroughly.

Nutrient-Packed Grain & Veggie Bowls

These nutrient-packed grain and veggie bowls are perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. Loaded with fiber and complete protein, they offer a satisfying, balanced meal in a single dish.

More Sweet Potato Favorites

If you love the natural sweetness and health benefits of this superfood, try these other delicious sweet potato recipes. From refreshing salads to twice-baked comfort food, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this vitamin-rich root vegetable.

Ingredient Spotlights

  • Kale: Often called the "king of greens," kale is a cruciferous vegetable packed with Vitamins K, A, and C. In this salad, the warm dressing and roasted vegetables help slightly wilt the leaves, making them tender and easier to digest while retaining their nutritional density.
  • Sweet Potatoes: These tubers are a complex carbohydrate, meaning they digest slowly and provide steady energy rather than a sugar spike. They are also rich in potassium, which is vital for heart health and blood pressure regulation.
  • Quinoa: Although we cook it like a grain, quinoa is technically a seed. It is naturally gluten-free and has a nutty flavor and distinct texture that pairs perfectly with soft roasted vegetables.

Healthy Variations

  • Add a Protein: While the quinoa offers protein, you can bulk this up by adding grilled chicken breast, roasted tofu cubes, or chickpeas for extra staying power.
  • Add Crunch: Top with toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas), sunflower seeds, or chopped almonds for added texture and healthy fats.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy version.
  • Creamy Finish: Drizzle with a little tahini or add diced avocado just before serving for creaminess.

Ingredients

Recipe yields 8 servings

Helpful How-To Video

Directions

  1. Step 1

    In a small saucepan, combine 2 cups water and quinoa and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until water is absorbed, 12 to 15 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the sweet potatoes and cook, tossing occasionally, until softened, 5 to 6 minutes.

  3. Step 3

    Add the kale, broth, soy sauce, ginger, salt and black pepper to taste. Cook, tossing often, until the vegetables are tender, 10 to 12 minutes. Serve the vegetables over the quinoa.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size:
1/2 cup

141
Calories
3
g
Fat
0
mg
Cholesterol
180
mg
Sodium
24
g
Carbs
0
g
Sat. Fat
3
g
Fiber
4
g
Protein

Alternative Cooking Methods

  • Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes: Instead of sautéing, toss the sweet potato cubes in a little oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes until crispy on the edges. This adds a nice textural contrast to the soft quinoa.
  • Roasted Vegetables: You can roast the sweet potatoes and garlic in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. Add the kale in the last 5 minutes just to crisp it up slightly ("kale chips" style) before mixing with the quinoa.

Serving & Storage Tips

  • Storage: This salad is one of the few that actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: You can serve this salad cold, at room temperature, or warm. To reheat, microwave gently for 30-60 seconds or sauté quickly in a pan just to take the chill off.
  • Keep it Fresh: If you plan to keep it for more than 4 days, store the dressing separately and toss right before serving to prevent the kale from becoming too soggy.

What to Serve With This Heart Healthy Kale, Sweet Potato and Quinoa Salad

This salad is hearty enough to stand alone as a light lunch or dinner, but it also pairs beautifully as a side dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have quinoa, brown rice, farro, or barley are excellent whole-grain alternatives. For a lower-carb option, try cauliflower rice.

Swiss chard or spinach work well. Spinach will wilt much faster, so add it at the very end.

To keep this recipe 100% gluten-free, use Tamari or coconut aminos. Coconut aminos will add a slightly sweeter, milder flavor profile.

If fresh ginger isn't available, use ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger, though fresh offers the best "zing."

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