Description
This vibrant Crunchy Winter Kale Salad with Pomegranate is the ultimate seasonal dish, balancing earthy massaged kale with the tart sweetness of pomegranate arils and crisp apples. Topped with a savory blend of toasted nuts and seeds seasoned with paprika and cinnamon, this refreshing salad is perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. It is a nutrient-dense, plant-forward meal that remains crisp and delicious even when prepared in advance.
Ingredients
1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
1/2 cup almonds, roughly chopped
1/4 cup shell-less pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large bunch curly kale, stems removed and chopped
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 cup fresh pomegranate arils
1 crisp apple, diced
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for dressing)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a small bowl, toss the walnuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds with 2 teaspoons olive oil, paprika, cinnamon, and salt.
Spread the nut mixture on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes until fragrant; let cool.
Place the prepared kale in a large bowl and add 1 tablespoon olive oil; massage with your hands for 3-5 minutes until the kale is dark green and tender.
In a separate jar, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey to create the vinaigrette.
Add the pomegranate arils and diced apple to the kale.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
Top with the toasted nut and seed mixture immediately before serving.
Notes
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If prepping ahead, keep the toasted nuts separate and add them right before serving to maintain their crunch. You can substitute the apple with pear for a different seasonal profile.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Tossing and Toasting
- Cuisine: Contemporary American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg