New Year Kale Treat (Printable Version)
Vibrant mix of crisp kale, apples, walnuts, and cranberries for a refreshing healthy start.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 large bunch kale (about 7 oz), stems removed, leaves chopped
02 - 1 medium apple, cored and thinly sliced
→ Nuts & Seeds
03 - ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
→ Dried Fruits
04 - ¼ cup dried cranberries
→ Cheese (optional)
05 - ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
→ Dressing
06 - 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
07 - 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
08 - 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
09 - ½ tsp Dijon mustard
10 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
# How To Make:
01 - Place chopped kale in a large salad bowl. Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Massage kale with hands for 1–2 minutes until leaves soften and darken in color.
02 - Add apple slices, walnuts, dried cranberries, and feta cheese (if using) to the prepared kale. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
03 - In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified.
04 - Pour dressing over salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients. Serve immediately or allow to rest for 10 minutes to let flavors meld together.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The massaged kale trick transforms tough leaves into silky, tender greens that actually taste delicious
- It comes together in 15 minutes but looks impressive enough for New Year gatherings
- You can prep everything ahead and toss with dressing just before serving
02 -
- Skip the kale massage and you will end up with tough, chewy leaves that no amount of dressing can fix
- The dressing can be made ahead and stored separately for up to a week
03 -
- Buy pre-massaged kale from the salad section if you are truly pressed for time
- A splash of lemon juice in the apple soaking water keeps them from browning