Kale & Apple Delight: A Salad for All Seasons

You’ve got to try this Kale Apple Salad—it’s a game-changer! Bursting with flavors from apples, avocado, and a tangy avocado dressing, it’s my go-to for a light lunch or zesty side dish. Ever since I began gardening, kale has become a superstar in my backyard. It’s easy to grow and super healthy, making it a staple in my daily meals.

When my garden is overflowing with kale, this salad is my first choice. And when I crave something different? I turn the same fresh kale into a revitalizing Kale Juice to kickstart my day. As the weather cools down, I even freeze some kale for a soul-warming Lentil with Kale Soup in the fall.

This salad is so versatile, it can be a meal on its own. But if you’re up for a feast, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or fish. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular in your meal planning!

What Kind of Kale is Best for This Salad?

Choosing the right kale is key to maximizing the flavor of your Kale Apple Salad. I personally love using baby red leaf kale. It’s not just colorful but also has a slightly sweet, peppery taste—think of it as arugula’s cousin. But don’t worry if you don’t have it; any kale will do. If you go for the popular curly kale, just remember to give it a quick massage with lemon juice and olive oil. This softens it up, making it much more enjoyable to eat raw.

Why is Kale So Good for You?

Kale isn’t just a trendy leafy green; it’s a nutritional powerhouse that earns its title as a superfood. Loaded with antioxidants like quercetin and kaempferol, it’s a warrior against free radicals in your body. But that’s not all! This leafy green is also low in calories but high in fiber, making it an excellent choice for weight management. And let’s not forget it’s a fat-free food! Rich in essential vitamins like A, C, and K, and minerals like calcium and potassium, kale provides a broad spectrum of nutrients you need for overall well-being. Whether you’re growing it in your backyard garden or buying it from the grocery store, incorporating kale into your diet is a step towards better health.

How to Prepare and Massage Kale for Salads?

Preparing kale for a salad can be done in one of two ways: blanching or massaging. Both methods aim to soften the leaves, making them tastier and easier to eat.

Blanching Method:
After washing and chopping the kale, you can blanch the leaves by quickly immersing them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes. Immediately after, place them in an ice bath to halt the cooking process. This makes the leaves softer and more palatable.

Massaging Method:
If you prefer raw kale, massaging is the way to go. This method not only softens the fibers but also allows the flavors to deeply infuse the leaves. To do this, place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl, and add lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Use your fingertips to gently massage these ingredients into the kale until it softens.

Choose the method that best suits your preference, and you’ll have perfectly prepared kale ready for your salad!