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Murielle Banackissa

Candied Pecan Kale and Apple Salad

Print recipe
20 mins Prep: 15 mins Cook: 5 mins
Serves 4

Vibrant in color and flavor, this massaged kale salad features maple-candied pecans and sweet and crunchy Autumn Glory apples. It is great served as a festive side during any holiday meal.

Ingredients

Candied Pecans

  • 1/2 cup raw pecans
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • Pinch of sea salt

Salad & Dressing

  • 4 cups curly kale , washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/8 cup apple juice , made from Autumn Glory apples
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tsp dijon mustard
  • 1 1/2 tsp white balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper , plus more for garnish
  • 1 Autumn Glory apple , thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries

Prepare the Candied Pecans

  1. Step 1

    Preheat a pan over medium heat. Add pecans and toast until fragrant (about 3-5 mins).

  2. Step 2

    Add maple syrup and a pinch of salt and continue cooking for one more minute stirring constantly.

  3. Step 3

    Transfer on a parchment-lined plate. Let cool completely.

Prepare the Dressing & Salad

  1. Step 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. Step 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. Step 3

    Taste kale and add more dressing if desired.

  4. Step 4

    Chop half of the pecans and keep the remaining half full.

  5. Step 5

    To serve, you can either divide the kale salad between plates and garnish with Autumn Glory apple slices, candied pecans and dried cranberries or toss all ingredients into the bowl with the kale and divide it between plates. Garnish with black pepper.

Common Questions & Swaps

Feel free to use Granny Smith or Cosmic Crisp apples instead of the Autumn Glory variety.

Candied Pecan Kale Salad
Candied Pecan Kale Salad
Candied Pecan Kale Salad held in hands
Candied Pecan Kale Salad

This recipe was created through an Instagram partnership with Autumn Glory Apples and Superfresh Growers.

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During the holidays, like everyone else, I love to indulge in all kinds of cookies, rich side dishes and plant based turkey, but in my family, making at least one green dish is a must! Most of the time we choose to serve salad; it is quick and easy to whip up, while also being nutritious and adding some freshness to our meals.

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Candied Pecan Kale Salad
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This salad fulfills that purpose perfectly. It is extra festive (I mean what is more festive than candied pecans and dried cranberries?), brings a pop of green to any holiday meal, and also allows you to get in there with your hands to bring kale to its delicious glory by massaging it.

If you do give this recipe a try (whether it be during the holidays or not!) and share about it on Instagram, make sure to tag me (@muriellebanackissa).

Have a wonderful week my friends!

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