Description
This Autumn Chopped Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette is a vibrant and healthy salad perfect for celebrating fall flavors. It combines crunchy kale, sweet apples, shredded carrots, walnuts, dried cranberries, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a tangy and slightly sweet apple cider vinaigrette. Ideal for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish, this salad offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes with minimal preparation time.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped kale
- 1 cup diced apples
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Apple Cider Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale, diced apples, shredded carrots, chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta cheese. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Make the Vinaigrette: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well emulsified and smooth to create the vinaigrette dressing.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared apple cider vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Notes
- For best flavor, use crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Gala.
- Walnuts can be toasted lightly in a dry pan to enhance their flavor before adding.
- Adjust honey in the vinaigrette according to your preferred sweetness.
- Kale can be massaged with a pinch of salt before assembling to soften its texture.
- Salad is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
