Caramelized Onion and Kale Slaw

Name: Caramelized Onion and Kale Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups of finely shredded kale; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Recipes

I love creating vibrant salads that can both refresh and satisfy, and this Caramelized Onion and Kale Slaw has become one of my favorites. The combination of sweet, caramelized onions with the hearty texture of kale offers a delightful contrast in flavors. We often pair this slaw with grilled dishes, making it a perfect summer side. The ease of preparation, while delivering impressive results, is another reason this recipe stands out. In just a short time, you can create a dish that surprises and delights everyone at the table.

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:30:31.271Z

When I first tried this Caramelized Onion and Kale Slaw, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such complex flavors. The sweetness of the onions, gently caramelized, perfectly complements the slight bitterness of the kale. I recommend using fresh, organic kale, as it tends to have a better texture and flavor. This dish quickly became a staple in my kitchen.

Experimenting with different vinegars in the dressing was eye-opening for me. A splash of apple cider vinegar adds a fruity note, while red wine vinegar gives a nice kick. I also love tossing in a handful of nuts for some added crunch—aged Parmesan can elevate it even further!

        Reasons to Love This Slaw
        Sweet caramelized onions bring a rich depth of flavor
Nutty kale provides a satisfying crunch
Versatile enough to pair with any main dish

      

The Importance of Caramelization

Caramelizing onions is the key to deepening the flavor of this slaw. The slow cooking process, which usually takes about 25 minutes, allows the sugars in the onions to break down, resulting in a richly sweet and savory addition to the dish. Stir the onions occasionally to prevent them from burning, ensuring they develop a golden-brown hue and soft texture. The visual cue to look for is a deep amber color with a glossy finish, which signals that your onions are perfectly caramelized.

If you find yourself in a hurry, you can speed up the caramelization process by increasing the heat slightly, but be cautious. Higher heat can lead to uneven cooking and burning, turning your onions bitter. If the onions start to stick, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan, scraping up those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. This technique not only enhances flavor but also prevents dreaded burnt bits from ruining your dish.

Working with Kale

Kale can vary in texture and flavor depending on the variety used. For slaw, I recommend using Lacinato kale, also known as dinosaur kale, as it has a slightly softer leaf and a sweeter flavor. Make sure to remove the tough central stem, which can be fibrous and unpleasant to chew. Shredding the kale finely is crucial since it allows the dressing to coat the leaves more evenly, enhancing each bite with flavor.

After shredding, consider massaging the kale leaves with a drizzle of olive oil prior to mixing in the other ingredients. This process helps to break down the fibers, making the kale tender and more palatable. You’ll know it's ready when the leaves soften and become darker in color. This simple step not only enhances the texture but also allows the kale to absorb the sweetness of the caramelized onions and the tang of the dressing.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Caramelized Onion and Kale Slaw can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent make-ahead dish. However, for best flavor and texture, it’s ideal to serve it fresh. If preparing in advance, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain the crunch of the kale. The flavors will meld beautifully over time, but the texture is best enjoyed crisp and bright.

Consider serving this slaw alongside grilled meats, especially barbecued dishes, as the sweetness of the caramelized onions complements smoky flavors perfectly. It can also be enjoyed as a sandwich filling or even a topping for tacos, adding a refreshing crunch. If you're looking to vary the recipe, try adding nuts for a delightful crunch or fruits like apples or cranberries for an additional layer of sweetness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious Caramelized Onion and Kale Slaw:

Ingredients

4 cups of finely shredded kale
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste

Toss the ingredients together for a slaw that's as nutritious as it is delicious!

Instructions

Let's dive into the steps to prepare this amazing slaw:

Caramelize the Onions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25 minutes until they are golden brown and caramelized.

Prepare the Kale

While the onions are cooking, wash and dry your kale. Remove the tough stems and finely shred the leaves.

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.

Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine the shredded kale and caramelized onions. Drizzle the dressing over the mixture and toss well to combine.

Enjoy your healthy and flavorful slaw!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add some toasted nuts or seeds for an extra crunch. This slaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have kale on hand, feel free to substitute with other greens like cabbage or Brussels sprouts. Both options will bring different textures and flavors but will still work wonderfully with the caramelized onions. For a lighter dressing, consider swapping the maple syrup with agave nectar or honey for a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the tangy apple cider vinegar.

For a dairy-free option, make sure to check that your maple syrup doesn’t contain any added sugars or animal products. Additionally, if you’re aiming for a nut-free variation of the dressing, simply omit the maple syrup in favor of a little extra vinegar or lemon juice to keep that vibrant tang without compromising the overall flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

This slaw is extremely easy to scale up or down depending on your needs. If you’re hosting a larger gathering, you can double or even triple the amounts given in the recipe while still following the same cooking techniques. Just be mindful of the pan size; use multiple skillets if needed, especially when caramelizing onions, to prevent overcrowding which can impact the caramelization process.

For smaller meals or solo dining, halving the recipe works equally well. Use one onion and about two cups of kale for a single serving or small side dish, ensuring you still give the onions ample time to develop that signature caramelization. This flexibility allows you to enjoy this delicious slaw regardless of the occasion!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making caramelized onions is ending up with burnt bits at the bottom of the pan. To avoid this, maintain a consistent medium heat and don’t skip the occasional stirring. If you notice the onions starting to catch, reduce the heat and consider adding a small splash of water to deglaze any stuck bits without losing flavor.

If your slaw ends up too sour after adding the dressing, a dash more maple syrup can balance out the acidity. Conversely, if it’s too sweet, a little more vinegar will help cut through the sweetness. Flavor adjustment is a normal part of the cooking process, so don’t be afraid to trust your palate for the perfect balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other greens instead of kale?

Yes! You can use cabbage or spinach if you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan. Just ensure the maple syrup is 100% pure.

→ Can I prepare this slaw in advance?

Yes! It can be made a few hours ahead of time, but add the dressing right before serving for the best texture.

→ What other toppings would you recommend?

Try adding sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, or crumbled feta for some variety!