Looking for a vibrant and nutritious salad that will make your taste buds dance? Look no further than this Pomegranate Kale Salad with Maple Glazed Pecans! Packed with the earthy goodness of kale, the sweet burst of pomegranate seeds, and the irresistible crunch of maple-glazed pecans, this salad is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a refreshing dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into our easy-to-follow guide and discover how to create this stunning salad that not only looks beautiful on your plate but also nourishes your body with every bite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup pecans
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the kale by washing it thoroughly and removing the tough stems. Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces and place in a large mixing bowl.
- For the maple glazed pecans, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans and maple syrup, stirring constantly for 3-4 minutes until the pecans are toasted and coated with a sticky glaze. Remove from heat and let cool on a parchment paper.
- Create the salad dressing by whisking together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
- Massage the chopped kale with the dressing for 2-3 minutes. This helps break down the tough kale leaves and makes them more tender and flavorful.
- Sprinkle the cooled maple glazed pecans over the dressed kale.
- Add fresh pomegranate seeds on top of the salad, distributing them evenly.
- Gently toss all ingredients together to ensure even coating and distribution.
- Serve immediately at room temperature or slightly chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Choosing the Right Kale: Opt for fresh, vibrant kale leaves. Lacinato kale (also known as dinosaur kale) is a great choice for its tender texture and mild flavor.
- Massaging the Kale: Don’t skip the massaging step! It’s essential for breaking down the tough leaves, making them softer and more enjoyable to eat.
- Toasting Pecans: Keep a close eye on your pecans while toasting them in the skillet. They can go from perfectly toasted to burnt very quickly!
- Dressing Variations: Feel free to experiment with the dressing! Adding a touch of honey or Dijon mustard can enhance the flavor profile even more.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad can be served as a main dish or as a side. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately to keep the kale crisp and the pecans crunchy. Combine them just before serving!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
