Go Back

Kale Crunch Salad

A crunchy, tangy salad featuring kale, cabbage, cherries, nuts, and a bright dressing, perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 260

Ingredients
  

Salad Base
  • 6 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped into thin ribbons (about 1 bunch)
  • 2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced (for extra crunch)
  • 1 medium carrot, shredded or julienned (adds color and sweetness)
  • 1 medium Granny Smith apple, cored and diced (tart contrast - optional)
  • 3/4 cup dried cherries or dried cranberries (sweet-tart pop)
  • 3/4 cup roasted, salted peanuts or sliced almonds (toasty crunch - use peanuts for the original vibe)
  • 1/2 cup fried wonton strips or crispy chow mein noodles (for irresistible snap)
  • 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan or grated Romano (salty, savory finish)
Dressing
  • 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess; can swap for mayo)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (bright acidity)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or agave (balance the tang)
  • 2 tablespoons light mayonnaise (for silkiness; optional if using all yogurt)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (depth and a little bite)
  • 2-3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (makes the dressing glossy)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if toasting nuts or crisping wonton strips.
  2. Trim the tough kale stems and slice the leaves into fine ribbons. Place in a large bowl, and add sliced cabbage and shredded carrot.
  3. If using Granny Smith apple, toss in a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Massage & Dressing
  1. Massage the kale and cabbage with a pinch of salt and 1-2 teaspoons of the dressing for 1-2 minutes until leaves soften.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, mayonnaise (if using), Dijon, olive oil, with salt and pepper.
  3. Toss the massaged greens with about two-thirds of the dressing until well-coated.
Assembly
  1. Fold in the diced apple (if using), dried cherries, and half of your toasted nuts.
  2. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with shaved Parmesan, remaining nuts, and wonton strips right before serving.
  3. Chill for 10-20 minutes for marinating, or serve immediately.

Notes

Massage the kale for tenderness. Toast nuts carefully; keep toppings separate if preparing ahead.