Kale and Apple Salad

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Kale and apple salad is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy. Here’s a recipe that’s easy to customize.

Kale and apple salad
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Kale and apple salad

Servings

4

servings
Cooking time

30

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch kale (about 6 cups chopped), stems removed and leaves finely chopped

  • 2 crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala), cored and thinly sliced or diced

  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins  

  • 1/2 cup toasted nuts (such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts), roughly chopped

  • Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

  • Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard  

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  • Wash and thoroughly dry the kale.
  • Remove the tough stems and finely chop the leaves.
  • Place the chopped kale in a large bowl.
  • Massage the kale with your hands for a few minutes to soften it. This step is crucial for making the kale more tender and palatable.
  • Core and thinly slice or dice the apples.
  • Add the apples, dried cranberries (or raisins), and toasted nuts to the bowl with the kale.
  • If using, add the crumbled feta or goat cheese.
  • Make the Dressing:
  • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  • Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
  • Pour the dressing over the kale and apple mixture.
  • Toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated.
  • Serve the salad immediately or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Kale Type: You can use any type of kale, such as Tuscan (lacinato) kale or curly kale.
  • Apple Variety: Choose crisp and slightly tart apples for the best flavor.
  • Nuts: Toast the nuts in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
  • Cheese: Feta or goat cheese adds a tangy and creamy element to the salad.
  • Add Protein: For a heartier salad, add grilled tofu, or chickpeas.
  • Add Grains: Quinoa or farro can add substance and texture.
  • Other Fruits: Pear or pomegranate seeds are great additions.
  • Dressing Variations: You can add a splash of lemon juice or orange juice to the dressing for extra brightness.
  • Make it ahead: The kale can be massaged, and the dressing can be made ahead of time. Just combine everything right before serving.
 

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