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Crispy Autumn Kale Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Crispy Autumn Kale Salad - featured image
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A quick, no-cook salad featuring massaged curly kale, crisp apples, toasted walnuts, and a tangy apple cider vinaigrette. This dish transforms tough kale into a tender, crunchy meal that is perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large bunch curly kale, stems removed and leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 large crisp apple (Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and sliced into half-moons
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
  • 1/4 cup feta or goat cheese, crumbled
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for massaging
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Wash the kale thoroughly and dry it completely using a salad spinner or paper towels.
  2. Remove the tough stems from the kale and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces, placing them in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of salt over the kale.
  4. Massage the salt and olive oil into the kale with your hands, squeezing and pulling the leaves until they turn dark green, look slightly wilted, and feel soft.
  5. Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the walnuts for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  7. Core the apple and slice it into thin half-moons.
  8. Add the sliced apple and toasted walnuts to the massaged kale.
  9. Drizzle with half of the vinaigrette and toss to combine, adding more dressing as needed to avoid sogginess.
  10. Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese and serve immediately.

Notes

Massaging the kale is crucial to break down fibers and remove bitterness. Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor. The salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store dressing separately if keeping for later to maintain crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: kale salad, apple cider vinaigrette, autumn recipes, healthy salad, quick dinner, gluten-free, vegetarian, massaged kale

Find it online: https://zoeplate.com/crispy-autumn-kale-salad-with-apple-cider-vinaigrette/