Winter Kale with Pecans Cranberries (Printable Version)

Hearty kale combined with toasted pecans, cranberries, and a zesty maple-Dijon dressing for winter meals.

# What You Need:

→ Greens

01 - 1 large bunch curly kale (about 8 cups), stems removed and leaves chopped

→ Nuts & Fruit

02 - 1/2 cup pecan halves
03 - 1/3 cup dried cranberries

→ Cheese (optional)

04 - 1/3 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

→ Dressing

05 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
06 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
07 - 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
08 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
09 - 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
10 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Add-ins (optional)

11 - 1 small apple, thinly sliced
12 - 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced

# Directions:

01 - Place pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast, stirring frequently, for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
02 - Place chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with a teaspoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Massage the kale with your hands for 1–2 minutes until leaves are tender and darkened.
03 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
04 - Add toasted pecans, dried cranberries, sliced apple, and red onion (if using) to the kale. Drizzle with dressing and toss well to combine.
05 - Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese just before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The massaged kale technique transforms tough leaves into something impossibly tender without any cooking
  • This salad holds up beautifully for days, making it perfect for meal prep or makeahead gatherings
02 -
  • Don't skip massaging the kale, it's what separates a good kale salad from a great one
  • The salad tastes even better after sitting for 30 minutes, so don't be afraid to make it ahead
03 -
  • Use curly kale for the best texture, as it holds onto dressing better than lacinato
  • Let the dressed salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor

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