This Harvest Apple Kale Salad is a tasty mix of crunchy kale, sweet apples, creamy brie, and sharp cheddar. It’s colorful and refreshing, perfect for any meal!
I love how the flavors come together, like a delicious party in a bowl! You can serve it as a side or enjoy it as a light lunch. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kale: Use curly kale for a sturdy base that holds dressing well. If you prefer a milder taste, try baby kale or even spinach. Both are softer and mix easily with other ingredients.
Apples: I often choose Honeycrisp for its sweetness and crunch, but Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith will also work. They add a great texture and flavor contrast, especially Granny Smith which gives a tart kick.
Brie and Cheddar: I love the creaminess of brie alongside the sharpness of cheddar. If you can’t find brie, use a soft cheese like Camembert or goat cheese. For cheddar, feel free to pick a mild or sharp variety based on preference.
Nuts: Pecans offer a nice sweetness, but walnuts can add a great crunch as well. If you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make tasty and safe substitutions.
How Do I Properly Massage the Kale?
Massaging kale is key to making it tender and flavorful! Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Place your kale in a bowl and drizzle with oil and a bit of salt.
- With clean hands, scrunch and rub the leaves together for 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice it becoming softer and darker.
- Be gentle but firm. This step breaks down the cell structure, making the kale easier to eat and more digestible.
Don’t skip this part; it really enhances the overall taste and texture of your salad! Enjoy the fresh crunch and rich flavors when you serve it! 😊
Harvest Apple Kale Salad with Brie and Cheddar
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups kale leaves, stems removed and roughly chopped
- 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), cored and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded or cubed
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. With a quick massaging of the kale and tossing of the ingredients, it’s ready to sit for a few minutes so the flavors can mix together beautifully. Perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish at dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Massaging the Kale:
Start by placing the chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add a pinch of salt. Now, use your hands to gently rub and massage the kale for about 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice the kale softening and changing color. This step makes it more tender and flavorful!
2. Preparing the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and the optional Dijon mustard, if you’re using it. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste; set aside.
3. Combining the Salad Ingredients:
Add the sliced apples, brie cubes, shredded cheddar, toasted nuts, and dried cranberries to the massaged kale in the bowl.
4. Tossing the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well combined and coated with the dressing.
5. Allowing the Flavors to Meld:
Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This will help all the flavors meld together beautifully before serving!
Enjoy your fresh, flavorful Harvest Apple Kale Salad with Brie and Cheddar—it’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Harvest Apple Kale Salad with Brie and Cheddar
Can I Use Pre-Packaged Kale for This Salad?
Absolutely! Pre-packaged kale is a convenient option and can save you time. Just make sure to wash and dry it if it isn’t pre-washed. You can skip the massaging step if it’s tender enough!
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
Feel free to mix it up! Pears, mandarin oranges, or grapes are great alternatives to apples. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness in your dressing if needed.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last for up to 2 days if kept properly. Keep in mind that the kale may wilt, so it might be a little less crunchy on the second day.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the brie and cheddar or substitute them with your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey to keep it vegan-friendly.