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Fall Kale and Apple Salad

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A crisp and vibrant salad combining nutrient-packed kale with sweet apples, toasted nuts, cranberries, and a tangy maple-Dijon dressing—perfect for autumn gatherings.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 large bunch curly kale (about 8 cups), ribs removed and leaves thinly sliced
  • 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to toss kale)
  • Dressing:
    • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
    • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Place sliced kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Massage the kale with your hands for about 1–2 minutes until it softens and darkens slightly.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  3. Add sliced apples, dried cranberries, and toasted nuts to the massaged kale. Drizzle dressing over the top.
  4. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or maple syrup if desired.
  5. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
  6. Serve immediately, or let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Best enjoyed within a few hours.

Notes

  • Switch up the nuts—almonds or pumpkin seeds work great too.
  • Make it gluten‑free and vegan by using a maple-tahini dressing and skipping Parmesan.
  • Add sliced pears, pomegranate arils, or roasted butternut squash for extra fall flair.
  • To prep ahead: prep kale and dressing up to a day ahead; slice apples just before tossing to maintain freshness.
  • Kale becomes even more tender after resting—massage leaves well if prepping ahead.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://easy-tapas-recipes.com/fall-kale-and-apple-salad/