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Kid-Approved Harvest Kale Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

harvest kale salad - featured image
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A sweet and tangy kale salad with crisp apples, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans, tossed in a simple apple cider vinaigrette. This kid-approved recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large bunch curly kale (or lacinato kale), washed, dried, and tough stems removed
  • 1 large Honeycrisp apple (or Fuji or Gala), cored and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened if possible)
  • 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the kale: Wash the kale thoroughly under cold water, then dry it well. Remove the tough stems and tear or chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces (about 6-7 cups).
  2. Massage the kale: Place the kale in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or a splash of the vinaigrette). Using your hands, rub the kale leaves together for 2-3 minutes until they turn brighter green and feel softer.
  3. Toast the pecans: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and cook, stirring frequently, for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
  4. Make the vinaigrette: In a small jar or bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until well blended. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously, or shake together in the jar. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Assemble the salad: Pour about half the vinaigrette over the massaged kale and toss well. Add the sliced apples, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and shaved Parmesan (if using). Toss gently to combine. Add more dressing as needed.
  6. Let it rest: Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and kale to soften further.

Notes

Massaging the kale is essential for tenderness. Toasting the pecans enhances flavor. The salad improves after resting for 15-20 minutes. Store dressing separately for leftovers.

Nutrition

Keywords: kale salad, harvest salad, apple cider vinaigrette, kid-friendly, healthy salad, fall salad

Find it online: https://bitesienna.com/kid-approved-harvest-kale-salad-with-apple-cider-vinaigrette/