Are you ready to revolutionize your salad experience with a dish that's not just healthy, but absolutely irresistible? Our Crunchy Lacinato Kale Salad is a game-changer that proves healthy eating can be both delicious and exciting! Packed with vibrant flavors, satisfying textures, and nutrient-dense ingredients, this salad is about to become your new obsession. Whether you're a kale enthusiast or a skeptical salad newbie, this recipe will make you fall in love with greens all over again!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups lacinato kale, chopped
- 1/2 cup almonds, sliced
- 1/2 cup apple, diced
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by preparing the ingredients. Rinse the lacinato kale under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Shake off excess water and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Once the kale is dry, remove the tough stems and ribs from the leaves. Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large mixing bowl.
- Next, prepare the apple. Wash and core the apple, then dice it into small cubes. You can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients.
- Add the diced apple to the bowl with the chopped kale. Then, add the sliced almonds and dried cranberries to the mixture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar until well combined. This will be your dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the kale salad mixture. Using tongs or your hands, toss everything together until the kale and other ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each and adjust according to your preference.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the kale to soften slightly.
- After the resting period, give the salad another gentle toss before serving. Divide the salad into two serving bowls or plates.
- Enjoy your Crunchy Lacinato Kale Salad as a refreshing side dish or a light meal!
Tips
- Massage the kale: To make the kale more tender and easier to eat, spend a few extra minutes massaging the chopped leaves with a bit of olive oil. This breaks down the tough fibers and makes the salad more palatable.
- Choose fresh ingredients: Use crisp, fresh lacinato kale (also known as dinosaur kale) and a firm, sweet apple for the best flavor and texture.
- Toast the almonds: For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan before adding them to the salad. This will enhance their nutty taste and add more crunch.
- Let it marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes after dressing helps the flavors meld and softens the kale slightly, making it more enjoyable to eat.
- Customize to your taste: Feel free to swap dried cranberries for other dried fruits like raisins or chopped dates, or experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pecans.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
