Hearty Greens with Kumquats
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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This vibrant vegan salad combines robust winter greens with the bright, citrusy punch of kumquats. By using a mix of kale, mustard greens, and escarole, you create a base of varying textures and bitter notes that pair beautifully with a crisp apple cider vinaigrette. It is a refreshing departure from standard leafy salads, offering a sophisticated balance of flavours that feels both light and deeply nourishing.
Ideal as a healthy lunch or a zesty side dish for a weekend dinner, this recipe is particularly convenient as the components can be prepped the night before. Chilling the greens and fruit overnight ensures they remain crisp, while the final addition of toasted pumpkin seeds and fresh chives provides a satisfying crunch and a savoury finish to every bite.
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Ingredients for Hearty Greens with Kumquats
12 cups mixed hearty greens (such as escarole, mustard greens, and kale)
1 cup kumquats, cut into thin rounds, seeded
80g Granny Smith Apple Cider Vinaigrette
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup 1" pieces chives
3 tablespoons roasted salted shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
How to make Hearty Greens with Kumquats
Store 12 cups mixed hearty greens (such as escarole, mustard greens, and kale; if using mustard greens or kale, fold leaves over and cut off tough centre rib and stems) and 240ml kumquats, cut into thin rounds, seeded, in 2 separate resealable plastic bags. Chill greens and kumquats overnight. Before serving, empty bags with greens and kumquats into a large bowl. Add 1/2 cup Granny Smith Apple Cider Vinaigrette to salad and toss to evenly coat.
Add more vinaigrette, if desired. Season to taste with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Transfer to a serving bowl and scatter 1/4 cup 1" pieces chives and, for a little crunch, 3 tablespoons roasted salted shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas) over.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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