This Warm Kale and Brown Rice Salad is a nutritious, flavor-packed dish that is perfect for meal prep, an easy lunch, or a nutritious side. Tender kale, hearty brown rice, crunchy almonds, and sweet dried cranberries come together with a simple homemade vinaigrette for the perfect balance of texture and flavor. This is a simple yet satisfying dish that I come back to again and again!
Why you’ll love this Black and Brown Rice Salad?
Served warm, this salad feels light and nutrient-packed as well as comforting and satisfying – ideal for busy families looking for a healthy, delicious meal.
- Warm and cozy, yet fresh
- Rich in fiber and nutrients
- Perfect for food preparation
- sweet + salty taste balance
- easy to customize
It’s a simple way to make everyday ingredients really delicious!

Tips for the Best Kale Salad:
- If you want to soften raw kale, massage it with some oil.
- Use warm rice to help absorb the dressing better.
- Toast the nuts for deep flavor and crunch.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey.
Easy Variations:
add protein
- grilled chicken
- Gram
- salmon
add more vegetables
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- Carrot
- brussel sprouts
swap grains
Storage Tips:
refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat:
Warm gently or enjoy cold.

More Delicious Kale Recipes:
Warm Black and Brown Rice Salad
This Warm Kale and Brown Rice Salad is a nutritious, flavor-packed dish that is perfect for meal prep, an easy lunch, or a nutritious side.
Servings: 4
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Cook brown rice according to package directions. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
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In a dry pan on medium flame, dry roast the chopped almonds for 2-3 minutes until golden and aromatic. Cancel.
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In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.Add chopped kale and cook until softened, 3-5 minutes.
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In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
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In a large bowl, combine hot brown rice, roasted kale and dried cranberries. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the top and toss to combine.
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Add roasted almonds on top and serve hot.
- If you want to soften raw kale, massage it with some oil.
- Use warm rice to help absorb the dressing better.
- Toast the nuts for deep flavor and crunch.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey.
