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Best Fresh Harvest Kale Apple Salad with Cranberries

kale apple salad - featured image
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A crisp and tangy kale salad with sweet apples, dried cranberries, and toasted nuts, tossed in a bright lemon vinaigrette. This accidental recipe is ready in 15 minutes and perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large bunch fresh kale, stems removed and chopped (about 5–6 cups)
  • 1 large apple (Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the kale: Wash kale thoroughly, remove tough stems, stack leaves, roll into a cigar shape, and slice into thin ribbons (chiffonade).
  2. Massage the kale: Place chopped kale in a large bowl, add a pinch of salt, and use your hands to gently squeeze and rub the leaves for about 2 minutes until softened and darkened.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small jar, combine olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds until emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Toast the nuts: Place pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook, shaking occasionally, for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  5. Assemble the salad: Pour dressing over massaged kale and toss well. Add sliced apple, dried cranberries, and toasted nuts. Toss gently. If using, shave Parmesan over the top. Serve immediately or let sit for 10-15 minutes for flavors to meld.

Notes

Massaging the kale is essential for tenderness. For meal prep, keep apples separate and add just before serving to prevent browning. The salad tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: kale salad, apple salad, cranberry salad, healthy salad, quick salad, meal prep salad, gluten-free, vegetarian

Find it online: https://dinadinnertable.com/best-fresh-harvest-kale-apple-salad-with-cranberries/