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Kale and Apple Salad with Cheddar and Pecans

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A crisp and hearty salad combining tender kale, sweet apples, sharp cheddar cheese, and crunchy pecans, all tossed in a tangy honey-Dijon dressing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for massaging kale)
  • 2 medium apples, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Place chopped kale in a large bowl and drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Massage leaves with your hands for 1–2 minutes until softened.
  2. Add sliced apples, cheddar cheese, pecans, and dried cranberries to the bowl.
  3. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to coat.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Notes

  • Use Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples for a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
  • For extra protein, add grilled chicken or chickpeas.
  • To keep apples from browning, toss them in a little lemon juice before adding to the salad.

Nutrition

Keywords: kale salad, apple cheddar pecan salad, fall salad, healthy salad

Find it online: https://yumcove.com/kale-and-apple-salad-with-cheddar-and-pecans/