| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 219 | 14g | 3g | 21g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 15g | 5g | 4g | 0.43g |
Why I Love Irish Apple and Kale Salad
When it comes to crafting the perfect salad, balance is key, and our Apple and Kale Salad hits all the right notes. It’s a blend of sweet and savory, with the crisp tartness of apples perfectly complimenting the earthy kale. If you’re looking to incorporate more greens into your diet, this recipe is a delicious place to start.
A Family Affair
Food has always been a cornerstone of my family life. Growing up along the coast of Portland, Maine, my diet was a seafood lover’s dream. And while I still swoon over a fresh lobster roll, creating lighter, vegetable-forward dishes for my daughters, Erin and Samantha, has become a new form of culinary love. The Apple and Kale Salad is a recipe they adore, especially when paired with a grilled shrimp or a hearty clam chowder.
Inspired by Tradition
Although my expertise lies in New England seafood, I’ve always been inspired by global cuisine. This recipe takes a page from the playbook of Chef Donal Skehan, who masters the art of modern Irish cooking. His focus on simple, high-quality ingredients is mirrored in this salad. The Apple and Kale Salad showcases the best of what fresh, seasonal produce has to offer.
The combination of apples and kale isn’t just about flavor—it’s about tradition, too. Similar to an Irish Colcannon or a hearty kale soup, this salad brings a piece of rustic comfort to your table. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or a cozy winter dinner, its versatility makes it a perfect side dish.
A Symphony of Flavors
What makes this salad truly special is the interplay of textures and tastes. The crunch from the sunflower seeds, the creamy richness of blue cheese, and the sweet chewiness of dried cranberries create a symphony of flavors. The dressing—an elegant mix of extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard—ties everything together with a bright, tangy finish.
Pair this salad with a bowl of New England clam chowder for a comforting meal, or serve it alongside grilled salmon for a light, yet satisfying dinner. It even works wonderfully as a festive appetizer for holiday gatherings. The possibilities are endless, making this Apple and Kale Salad a worthy addition to your culinary repertoire.
More than just a salad, this dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple preparation. Give it a try, and let it become a beloved part of your family’s kitchen tradition, just as it has in mine.
What You’ll Need
- 6 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 3 medium apples, cored and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
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Method
Step One
In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale, thinly sliced apples, dried cranberries, crumbled blue cheese, and sunflower seeds.
Step Two
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step Three
Pour the dressing over the kale and apple mixture in the large bowl.
Step Four
Toss the salad thoroughly to ensure all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step Five
Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the kale to soften slightly.
Step Six
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to a few hours before serving. Enjoy your Apple and Kale Salad!
