Looking for a quick and delicious way to elevate your salad game? The Cheddar Apple Kale Salad is not just a dish; it’s a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds! With its crisp kale, sweet apple slices, and sharp cheddar, this salad is a delightful balance of savory and sweet that’s perfect for any occasion. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s the ideal choice for busy weeknights or a refreshing side at your next gathering. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to whip up a salad that’s not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 1 large apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup almonds, sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the kale under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture. Once dry, chop the kale into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl.
- Next, wash the apple thoroughly. Slice the apple into thin wedges or rounds, removing the core as you go. You can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrition. Add the apple slices to the bowl with the kale.
- Now, take the sharp cheddar cheese and shred it using a grater or a food processor. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the kale and apple mixture in the bowl.
- Measure out the sliced almonds and add them to the salad. The almonds will provide a nice crunch and complement the flavors of the other ingredients.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. This will serve as your dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl.
- Using tongs or salad servers, gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to bruise the kale too much; you want to keep it fresh and crisp.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each and adjust according to your preference.
- Once everything is well mixed and seasoned, serve the salad immediately on individual plates or in bowls. Enjoy your Cheddar Apple Kale Salad as a refreshing side dish or a light meal!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, select fresh kale and a crisp apple. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully for a sweet and tart balance.
- Kale Preparation: Don’t skip the washing step! Rinsing the kale thoroughly ensures a clean salad. Also, massaging the kale leaves with a bit of olive oil before adding other ingredients can enhance their tenderness.
- Cheese Variety: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a different twist.
- Nut Alternatives: If you have nut allergies, consider substituting the almonds with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for that satisfying crunch.
- Dressing Customization: Adjust the olive oil and lemon juice ratio to suit your taste. For a creamier dressing, try adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
- Make It a Meal: To turn this salad into a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Serve Fresh: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so try to serve it immediately after mixing to maintain the crispness of the kale and apples.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
