Print

Fresh Harvest Kale Salad with Apples and Pecans

kale salad with apples and pecans - featured image
Print Recipe

A crunchy, tangy, and slightly sweet kale salad with massaged kale, crisp apples, toasted pecans, and a tangy-sweet dressing. Perfect for meal prep, holiday dinners, or a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large bunch curly kale (about 8–10 ounces), stems removed and leaves finely chopped
  • 1 large Honeycrisp or Fuji apple, cored and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Toast the pecans: Place the chopped pecans in a small skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from pan and set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the kale: Wash the kale thoroughly and pat it dry. Remove the tough stems, stack the leaves, roll tightly, and slice into thin ribbons.
  3. Massage the kale: Place the chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Using your hands, squeeze and massage the kale for 2-3 minutes until it softens and darkens in color.
  4. Make the dressing: In a small jar, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Shake vigorously until well combined.
  5. Assemble the salad: Pour the dressing over the massaged kale and toss well. Add the sliced apples, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta (if using). Toss gently to combine.
  6. Rest before serving: Let the salad sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Massaging the kale is essential for tenderness. Toast pecans fresh for best flavor. Slice apples just before serving to prevent browning. Dress kale first, then add toppings. Let salad rest 10 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: kale salad, harvest salad, apple pecan salad, easy kale salad, healthy salad, fall salad, meal prep salad

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/fresh-harvest-kale-salad-with-apples-and-pecans-easy-best-recipe/