Autumn Glory Kale Salad

Skill level: Easy

This kale apple salad combines tender greens with sliced apples, dried cranberries, and candied pecans for a mix of texture and flavor. The kale is softened with a simple vinaigrette made with apple juice, Dijon mustard, and olive oil, creating a smooth, balanced base. Finished with crunchy toppings and fresh apple slices, this salad works well as a side or a light meal that’s easy to prepare and serve.

Ingredients

• ½ cup raw pecans
• 1 tablespoon syrup
• Pinch of salt
• 4 cups curly kale, washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
• ⅛ cup apple juice, made from Autumn Glory apples
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 ½ teaspoon white balsamic vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, plus more for garnish
• 1 Autumn Glory apple, sliced thinly
• ¼ cup dried cranberries

Directions

Candied Pecans

1. Preheat a pan over medium heat. Add pecans and toast until fragrant (3-5 mins).
2. Add maple syrup and a pinch of salt, then continue cooking for 1 more minute, stirring constantly.
3. Transfer to a parchment-lined plate. Let cool completely.

Salad & Dressing

1. Add apple juice, olive oil, dijon mustard, white balsamic vinegar, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper into a small jar. Whisk to combine.
2. Transfer kale into a large bowl and top with 6 tablespoons of the dressing. Massage using your hand until the kale has softened.
3. Taste the kale and add more dressing if desired.
4. Chop half of the pecans and keep the remaining half.
5. To serve, you can either divide the kale salad between plates and garnish with Autumn Glory slices, candied pecans, and dried cranberries, or toss all the ingredients with the kale and divide it between plates. Garnish with black pepper.

Recipe created by Murielle Banackissa for Superfresh Growers.