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Apple Cranberry Bacon Kale Salad

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A vibrant and flavorful salad combining kale, crisp apples, tart cranberries, and smoky bacon, perfect for any occasion.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch kale, chopped
  • 2 apples, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
  • 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted (optional)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash the kale and remove the stems. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces and massage with a little olive oil and salt for 2 minutes.
  2. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and crumble when cool.
  3. In the same skillet, toast nuts in reserved bacon drippings for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, if desired.
  4. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for dressing.
  5. In a large bowl, combine massaged kale, apples, cranberries, bacon, and nuts. Drizzle with dressing and toss to combine.
  6. Top with crumbled cheese before serving, if using.

Notes

Feel free to substitute spinach for kale or omit cheese for a dairy-free option.

  • Author: instantmeals
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Paleo