Description
This Apple Walnut Salad with Dijon Vinaigrette is a fresh and vibrant dish combining nutrient-packed kale, sweet apple slices, crunchy walnuts, dried cranberries, and tangy shaved vegan parmesan. Tossed in a homemade Dijon-based vinaigrette, it offers a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for a healthy lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
For the Dijon Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tablespoon maple syrup
- Sea salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
For the Salad
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bunch lacinato kale, destemmed and chopped
- 1 apple, cored and thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup shaved vegan parmesan
Instructions
- Make the Salad Dressing: Combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 tablespoon maple syrup, sea salt, and ground black pepper in a jar. Seal and shake well until the dressing is emulsified and smooth.
- Prepare the Kale: Place the chopped kale in a large bowl and drizzle with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil. Massage the kale gently with your hands until the leaves become tender, which helps soften its texture and enhances flavor absorption.
- Assemble the Salad: Add the thinly sliced apple, chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, and shaved vegan parmesan to the massaged kale.
- Toss with Dressing: Drizzle the prepared Dijon vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss everything thoroughly to ensure each bite is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
Notes
- Massaging kale helps break down its tough fibers, making it easier to eat and digest.
- You can substitute the vegan parmesan with regular parmesan if not vegan.
- For extra crunch, toast the walnuts lightly before adding.
- This salad can be kept refrigerated for up to 1 day; dress it just before serving to avoid sogginess.
- Add a protein like grilled chicken or tofu to make it more filling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
