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Copycat Kale Crunch Salad with Apple Cider Dressing

A vibrant bowl of Copycat Kale Crunch Salad featuring glossy kale, sliced almonds, and dried cranberries.
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Make a restaurant-style Kale Crunch Salad at home using this recipe for tender massaged kale, crunchy toppings, and a tangy apple cider vinaigrette.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large bunch kale (about 6 cups chopped)
  • 1/4 cup raw slivered almonds
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the kale: Wash and thoroughly dry the kale leaves. Remove the tough ribs and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Massage the kale: Place the chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Use your hands to firmly massage the kale for 2 to 3 minutes until the leaves soften and darken slightly. Set aside.
  3. Toast the almonds: Heat a small, dry skillet over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds and toast, stirring often, until lightly golden brown, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat immediately.
  4. Make the dressing: In a small jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the apple cider vinegar, remaining olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Shake well until the dressing emulsifies.
  5. Assemble the salad: Add the dried cranberries and toasted pumpkin seeds to the massaged kale. Pour about half of the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
  6. Add the almonds and serve: Add the toasted slivered almonds and toss gently. Add more dressing as needed to reach your desired coating level. Serve immediately for the best crunch.

Notes

  • For best results, use curly kale or Lacinato (dinosaur) kale.
  • You can toast the almonds and make the dressing up to 3 days ahead of time. Store separately.
  • If you prefer a sweeter dressing, increase the maple syrup to 3 tablespoons.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tasteportfolio.com/copycat-kale-crunch-salad-apple-cider-dressing/