Imagine a salad that's not just healthy, but incredibly delicious - a culinary masterpiece that combines the earthy richness of kale, the crisp sweetness of fresh apples, and a luxurious creamy dressing that will make your taste buds dance! This Creamy Apple Kale Salad is more than just a side dish; it's a nutrition-packed flavor explosion that will revolutionize your meal prep and leave you craving more with every single bite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup creamy dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by thoroughly washing the kale under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities. After washing, shake off excess water and place the kale on a clean cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, chop the kale into bite-sized pieces. Transfer the chopped kale into a large mixing bowl.
- Next, take the apple and wash it under cold water. Core the apple and slice it thinly. You can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients. Add the apple slices to the bowl with the kale.
- Measure out 1/2 cup of walnuts and chop them coarsely if they are whole. Add the chopped walnuts to the mixing bowl with the kale and apple.
- Measure out 1/4 cup of dried cranberries and add them to the bowl. The cranberries will add a nice sweetness to balance the flavors of the salad.
- Pour 1/2 cup of your favorite creamy dressing over the ingredients in the bowl. This could be a ranch, Caesar, or any other creamy dressing you prefer.
- Using tongs or clean hands, gently toss all the ingredients together until the kale, apple, walnuts, and cranberries are well coated with the dressing.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your preference.
- Once everything is mixed well, let the salad sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the kale to soften slightly.
- Finally, serve the salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. Enjoy your Creamy Apple Kale Salad as a refreshing side dish or a light meal!
Tips
- Massage the kale: Gently massage the chopped kale with a bit of olive oil or dressing to help soften its tough texture and make it more tender.
- Choose the right apple: Use crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor contrast.
- Toast the walnuts: For an extra depth of flavor, lightly toast the walnuts in a dry skillet before adding them to the salad.
- Let it marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld and the kale to slightly soften.
- Customize your dressing: Experiment with different creamy dressings like ranch, Caesar, or a homemade yogurt-based dressing to find your perfect match.
- Add protein: For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or crumbled feta cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg
