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Autumn Kale Salad with Maple

Savory Autumn Kale Salad with Maple Magic for Cozy Days

Enjoy this nutritious Autumn Kale Salad with Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette, blending healthy ingredients for a cozy fall dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Autumn
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 bunch Curly Kale Try Lacinato kale for a different texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Sea Salt Enhances flavor and helps tenderize the kale.
  • 1 medium Delicata Squash Can substitute with butternut squash.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Essential for roasting.
  • 1 cup Cooked Brown Lentils Provides plant-based protein.
  • 1/2 cup Pecan Halves Substitute with walnuts or pumpkin seeds for nut-free.
  • 1 large Apple Pick your favorite variety.
  • 1/2 cup Raisins Adds a chewy sweetness.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar Core ingredient for tangy flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Pure Maple Syrup Imparts natural sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Helps emulsify the dressing.
  • 1 pinch Black Pepper Adds spice to the dressing.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • large mixing bowl
  • Mason jar
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Autumn Kale Salad with Maple
  1. Remove the tough stems from the curly kale leaves and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, sprinkle sea salt and gently massage the kale for about 2-3 minutes until it turns bright green and softens.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the delicata squash into half-moons and toss in a bowl with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Spread the squash on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  3. While the squash is roasting, prepare the vinaigrette by combining balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and black pepper in a mason jar. Shake well for 30 seconds.
  4. In a large salad bowl, combine the massaged kale with half of the dressing. Add the roasted squash, brown lentils, chopped apple, pecan halves, and raisins. Gently mix and drizzle the remaining dressing over the top.
  5. Serve immediately or store for meal prep, keeping the dressing separate until serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 9gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gSodium: 220mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Kale should be massaged for optimal tenderness. Store the dressing separately when meal prepping to maintain crispness.

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