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Kale Apple Slaw Recipe

Kale Apple Slaw is a vibrant and nutritious dish that blends the robust flavors of kale with the sweet crunch of apples. This slaw is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, making it a perfect side dish or light meal. The combination of the earthy kale, tart apples, and a tangy dressing creates a refreshing and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed year-round.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Small whisk or fork
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Salad spinner (optional)
  • Large spoon or tongs for mixing

Ingredients
  

  • 1 bunch of kale (approximately 5-6 cups, stems removed, leaves finely chopped)
  • 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, thinly sliced or julienned)
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Kale: Rinse the kale thoroughly. Remove the stems and finely chop the leaves. If using a salad spinner, spin the kale to remove excess water.
  • Prepare the Apples: Thinly slice or julienne the apples. To prevent browning, you can toss them in a little lemon juice.
  • Mix the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped kale, sliced apples, shredded carrots, sliced red onion, dried cranberries or raisins, and chopped nuts.
  • Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  • Dress the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the kale mixture. Toss everything together until the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
  • Add Cheese (Optional): If using, sprinkle the feta cheese over the top of the slaw and give it a gentle toss.
  • Serve: Serve immediately, or let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

Tips

  • Massage the Kale: If you find raw kale too tough, try massaging the chopped kale with a bit of olive oil and salt before adding the other ingredients. This can help to soften it.
  • Make Ahead: The slaw can be made a few hours ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld and improve over time.
  • Variations: Feel free to add other seasonal fruits like pears or pomegranate seeds. For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken or tofu.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The kale will hold up well, but the apples might lose some of their crunch.
Enjoy your refreshing and nutritious Kale Apple Slaw!