![['Close-up of a vibrant Kale Apple Salad featuring diced apples and cranberries.', 'Side view of a fresh Kale Apple Salad with blueberries and walnuts on a plate.', 'A colorful Kale Apple Salad with green Lacinato kale, sweet apple pieces, and nuts.', 'Detailed view of a prepared Kale Apple Salad with a drizzle of maple Dijon dressing.']](https://smarthealthyrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/u6426281249_close_up_photo_side_view_from_reddit._taken_with__43ef9332-d673-49d9-9f8f-82b871cdd3d4_0-1.webp)
Kale Apple Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing
A fresh and vibrant kale salad tossed with sweet apples, dried cranberries, and a tangy maple Dijon dressing, perfect for a healthy meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ tablespoon maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Main ingredients
- 1 head Lacinato kale (tough stems removed)
- 1 medium sweet apple (diced)
- 2 tablespoons dried cranberries
- ¼ cup blueberries (optional)
- 2-3 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Whisk together apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, pepper, onion powder, and olive oil until emulsified. Set aside.
- Remove stems from kale, chop or tear into bite-sized pieces, wash and dry thoroughly, then place in a large bowl.
- Add half the dressing to the kale and massage into the leaves. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Toast nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Cool and chop.
- Before serving, add diced apple, cranberries, blueberries (if using), nuts, and toss. Serve immediately with remaining dressing on the side.
Notes
For extra flavor, toast the nuts beforehand and massage the dressing into the kale thoroughly.