if you’re feeling a little weighed down from all the rich and indulgent holiday meals, this happy gut reset salad is here to make you feel oh so good!
it’s crunchy, creamy, earthy, and slightly sweet—everything you need in a reset-friendly bowl of goodness.
taste and texture
the finely chopped kale and brussels sprouts create a satisfying base with just the right amount of crunch.
roasted cauliflower, rainbow carrots, and sweet potatoes bring a caramelized sweetness, while the hemp and pumpkin seeds add nutty undertones and a bit of crunch.
the tahini-balsamic dressing ties it all together with a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor that’s downright addicting.

why it’s perfect post-thanksgiving (or anytime during the holidays)
this salad is a great way to hit the reset button.
it’s packed with fiber and gut-loving ingredients to help you feel lighter and more energized after heavy meals.
the cruciferous veggies like kale and brussels sprouts are known for their detoxifying properties, while sweet potatoes and carrots bring natural sweetness to keep you satisfied without the sugar crash.
whether you’re enjoying it as a main or a side, it’s a refreshing break in between the feasts.
gut health and general wellness
- kale & brussels sprouts: these cruciferous vegetables are loaded with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins k and c, which support gut health and immunity.
- roasted veggies: sweet potatoes and carrots are full of beta-carotene and other phytonutrients that promote a healthy gut lining.
- seeds: hemp and pumpkin seeds offer plant-based protein, omega-3s, and zinc to support digestion and overall health.
- tahini-balsamic dressing: tahini provides healthy fats and calcium, while balsamic vinegar aids digestion with its acetic acid content.

substitutions and customizations
- swap the greens: if you’re not a fan of kale or brussels sprouts, try spinach, arugula, or romaine as a base.
- change the roasted veggies: use butternut squash, parsnips, or beets instead of sweet potatoes or rainbow carrots.
- add protein: chickpeas, lentils, or grilled tofu make this salad heartier.
- nut-free option: skip the pumpkin seeds and add sunflower seeds or omit seeds altogether.
how to make it
the process is simple:
- pulse the kale and brussels sprouts in a food processor for that choppy texture.
- roast the cauliflower, rainbow carrots, and sweet potatoes to bring out their natural sweetness.
- whisk together the tahini-balsamic dressing—it’s quick, creamy, and flavorful.
- toss everything together, sprinkle with hemp and pumpkin seeds, and enjoy!

storage tips
this salad is perfect for meal prep! store the components separately if you’re not eating it right away:
- the dressing can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- the roasted veggies will stay fresh for 3–4 days in the fridge.
- the kale and brussels sprouts mix can be prepped ahead and stored in the fridge for 2–3 days.
once assembled, the salad will keep for 2 days in the fridge, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving for the freshest taste.
a feel-good recipe for the season
this happy gut reset salad is more than just a meal—it’s a nourishing way to take care of your body during the busiest, most indulgent time of the year.
enjoy it as a light lunch, a healthy side dish, or even a satisfying dinner. your gut will thank you!
if you like The Happy Gut Reset Salad you’ll also love these other recipes of mine!
Quick and Easy Farro Chickpea Salad with Vegan Feta Crumbles
Rainbow Veggie Crunch and Roasted Cashew Salad
Zesty Wellness Bowl: Ginger-Boosted Vegan Kale and Tofu Salad
Vibrant and Hearty Vegan Winter Salad
The Best Kale, Cranberry and Butternut Squash Thanksgiving Side Salad
Nourishing Fall Salad Flatbreads
Vegan Spicy Peanut Cashew Salad
High Protein Eggless Salad Melt
Goddess Glow Nutrient-Packed Salad
Vegan Chickpea Waldorf Salad Sandwich
Vegan Tofu Parmesan Caesar Salad Wraps
Vegan Maple Sweet Potato and Bacon Harvest Salad
Unreal Healthy Plant-Based Gluten-Free Broccoli Pizzas
Plant-Based Convenient Veggie & Hummus Pasta
Cozy Sun-Dried Tomato & Chickpea Kale Soup
Plant-Based Spanakopita Baked Spaghetti Squash
Protein-Packed Green Goddess Pasta Salad
Plant-Based Protein “Breadsticks” (11g+ per breadstick!)
Blue Zone Lentil and Chickpea Gemista
Revitalizing Salad with Carrot Ginger Miso Dressing
Savory Vegan Protein-Packed Breakfast Sandwiches
Delicious Plant-Based Chickpea & Spinach Nuggets
Satisfying Coconut Tofu Salad with Curry Tahini Dressing

are you going to make The Happy Gut Reset Salad!?
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The Happy Gut Reset Salad
Recipe by Mary5
servings15
minutes25
minutesIngredients
salad base
1 bunch kale stems removed
2 cups brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 cups roasted cauliflower florets
1 cup roasted rainbow carrots, sliced into thin sticks
2 cups roasted sweet potato cubes
1/4 cup hemp seeds
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
1 tbsp avocado oil
1/4 tsp sea salt
dressing
1/3 cup tahini
2-3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1 tbsp dijon mustard
1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
1/4 cup vegetable broth or water (to thin as needed)
Directions
- prep the kale & brussels sprouts
add the kale and brussels sprouts to a food processor. pulse until they’re finely chopped. you can make as grainy as you would like! then, transfer to a large bowl and mix or massage with a tbsp of avocado oil and 1/4 tsp sea salt. - roast the veggies
preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). spread the cauliflower, rainbow carrots, and sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. drizzle with avocado oil and sprinkle with sea salt. roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender. - make the dressing
whisk together all the dressing ingredients, starting with 2 tbsp water and adding more if needed to reach your desired consistency. taste and adjust seasoning if needed. - assemble the salad
add the roasted veggies to the kale and brussels sprouts mixture. sprinkle with hemp seeds and pumpkin seeds. - dress & serve
toss the salad with the dressing until evenly coated. serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days for a marinated flavor.


