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Kale Salad with Apple and pumpkin seed clusters

Kale Salad with Apple and pumpkin seed clusters
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A vibrant and refreshing kale salad featuring crisp Granny Smith apples and crunchy roasted pumpkin seed clusters, tossed in a bright lemon-honey dressing. This nutrient-packed salad balances sweet, savory, and textural elements, perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or healthy snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh curly kale, washed and chopped
  • 1 medium Granny Smith apple, cored and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons good-quality olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins

  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 tablespoons dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Kale: Wash the kale thoroughly, remove tough stems, and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Massage the kale gently with 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon lemon juice until it softens and turns vibrant green to improve texture and flavor.
  2. Slice the Apple: Core and thinly slice the Granny Smith apple, leaving the skin on for extra nutrients and color. Toss slices immediately with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning.
  3. Roast the Pumpkin Seed Clusters: Toast the pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until they pop and turn golden brown. For clusters, mix the seeds with honey or maple syrup and a pinch of salt, spread on a lined baking tray, and roast at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let cool to harden.
  4. Make the Dressing: Whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, honey or maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Adjust sweetness and acidity to taste.
  5. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the massaged kale, apple slices, and pumpkin seed clusters. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to coat evenly without bruising the apples. Add any optional ingredients if desired.

Notes

  • Massage the kale to break down tough fibers and improve texture.
  • Choose a crisp, slightly tart apple variety for best flavor.
  • Watch pumpkin seeds carefully when toasting to avoid burning.
  • Add dressing just before serving to keep ingredients fresh and crunchy.
  • Customize pumpkin seed clusters with sweet or savory coatings to your preference.

Nutrition

Keywords: kale salad, apple salad, pumpkin seed clusters, healthy salad, gluten free, vegetarian, fresh, nutritious

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/kale-salad-with-apple-and-pumpkin-seed-clusters/