Fall Kale Salad
This vibrant Fall Kale Salad is a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and bold flavors! Roasted sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness, while crisp apples and toasted pumpkin seeds bring a delightful crunch. The massaged kale is tender and dressed in a tangy apple cider vinaigrette with Dijon mustard and maple syrup for a burst of flavor. Topped with creamy feta, this salad is a deliciously balanced mix of textures and nutrients!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: 8 Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
Ingredients:
- 8 cups kale, chopped
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil (plus extra for roasting sweet potato)
- 3 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp. pure maple syrup
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
- 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 red apples, chopped into bite-size pieces
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled reduced-fat feta cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed sweet potato with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender. Let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped kale with a little olive oil and massage the leaves for 2-3 minutes to soften them.
- In a jar with a fitted lid, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic, salt, and pepper. Shake vigorously until emulsified.
- Pour the dressing over the kale and mix until thoroughly coated. Add the roasted sweet potatoes, chopped apples, feta cheese, and pumpkin seeds. Toss gently to combine and serve!
Tips and Tricks:
- Don’t skip massaging the kale! It helps break down the tough fibers, making the leaves more tender and easier to digest. Just a couple of minutes with a little olive oil softens the texture and improves flavor.
- Swap the pumpkin seeds for sunflower seeds or chopped pecans for a different texture and flavor. If you prefer a plant-based option, omit the feta or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- For an extra crunchy salad, add the apples right before serving. This will keep them crisp and prevent them from browning.
Nutrition Facts:
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