Warm Kale Salad Maple Mustard (Printable)

Tender massaged kale with warm maple-mustard glaze, toasted nuts, and cranberries.

# What You'll Need:

→ Salad Components

01 - 1 large bunch curly kale, stems removed and leaves torn (about 8 cups)
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
04 - 1/3 cup dried cranberries
05 - 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
06 - 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
07 - 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

→ Maple Mustard Dressing

08 - 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
09 - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
10 - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
12 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
13 - 3 tablespoons olive oil

# Directions:

01 - Place kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Massage kale with hands for 2-3 minutes until leaves become vibrant green and tender.
02 - In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and salt. Once combined and warmed through, slowly whisk in 3 tablespoons olive oil until emulsified. Remove from heat.
03 - Pour warm maple mustard dressing over massaged kale. Toss thoroughly to coat all leaves evenly.
04 - Add dried cranberries, toasted nuts, and sliced red onion to kale. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
05 - Transfer to serving platter or individual bowls. Top with crumbled feta cheese if using. Serve immediately while dressing is still warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The warm dressing transforms tough kale into something silky and luxurious
  • It comes together in under 20 minutes but tastes like it took much more effort
  • The sweet and tangy balance makes it addictive
02 -
  • The massaging step is not optional, it breaks down the tough cellulose and makes kale actually enjoyable
  • Serve this salad warm, not hot, the contrast of temperatures matters
03 -
  • Toast your nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, shaking constantly
  • If the dressing seems too thick, add a teaspoon of warm water while whisking
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