When the vibrant hues of autumn begin to paint the trees, I find myself craving a dish that not only reflects the season but also celebrates the bounty of nature. That’s when I whip up my Maple Kale Salad with Cranberries and Blue Cheese—a delightful medley that is as nourishing as it is delicious. The crunch of fresh kale, paired with the sweet-tart bite of Pink Lady apples and the creamy richness of blue cheese, turns a simple salad into a symphony of flavors.
What I love most about this salad is its versatility. Perfect as a side for cozy family dinners or a stunning centerpiece for gatherings, it has become a staple in my kitchen. Plus, with a zesty maple dressing that comes together in a flash, this recipe is a stellar solution for those busy weeknights when you crave home-cooked goodness without the hassle.
Join me in creating this vibrant dish that’s sure to win over even the pickiest eaters—who knew healthy could taste so good? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Maple Kale Salad with Cranberries and Blue Cheese a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: The sweet maple dressing complements the earthy kale and tangy blue cheese, creating a taste sensation that will leave you craving more.
Quick Prep: With just 20 minutes of total time, you can whip up a vibrant salad that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen.
Colorful Presentation: The dazzling reds, greens, and blues make this salad a feast for the eyes, perfect for impressing guests at your next dinner party.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, each bite offers a healthy boost, making it perfect for your wellness journey.
Versatile Serving: Whether as a side dish for roasted meats or as a light lunch, this salad adapts to any occasion—truly a crowd-pleaser!
For more delicious ideas, explore our collection of healthy salad recipes.
Maple Kale Salad with Cranberries and Blue Cheese Ingredients
For the Salad
- Kale – 1 large bunch, stems removed and leaves chopped, serves as the nutrient-packed base for this salad.
- Pink Lady apple – 1 medium, unpeeled and finely sliced; it’s the sweet burst of flavor that brightens every bite.
- Red onion – ½ small, finely sliced; adds a crunchy, slightly sharp contrast to the sweetness of the dressing.
- Dried cranberries – ½ cup (85 g) for a sweet-tart note that perfectly complements the kale and blue cheese.
- Toasted pecans – ½ cup (50 g), roughly chopped; they provide a delightful crunch and rich nutty flavor.
- Blue cheese – 75 g (2¾ oz), crumbled; this creamy cheese adds depth and a savory element to the salad.
For the Dressing
- Olive oil – 3 tbsp, it serves as the smooth base for dressing up the kale and keeping the salad moist.
- Maple syrup – 2 tbsp; it contributes a natural sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the kale.
- Dijon mustard – 1 tbsp; it adds a zesty tang that helps to balance the sweetness of the syrup.
- Apple cider vinegar – 2 tbsp; brings acidity to brighten the flavors and enhance the overall taste.
- Garlic powder – ½ tsp; adds a subtle warmth that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Sea salt flakes – to taste; enhance the flavor of the salad without overpowering it.
- Freshly cracked black pepper – to taste; a pinch adds a delightful kick that elevates the dressing.
This Maple Kale Salad with Cranberries and Blue Cheese is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a colorful addition to any dining table!
How to Make Maple Kale Salad with Cranberries and Blue Cheese
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Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder. Season with sea salt flakes and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, mixing until well combined.
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Massage the Kale: Place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle half of the dressing over the kale. Use your hands to massage the dressing into the kale leaves for 1–2 minutes, until they are softened and reduced in volume.
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Assemble the Salad: Add the sliced Pink Lady apple, red onion, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled blue cheese to the bowl with kale. Drizzle the remaining dressing on top and toss gently to combine all the ingredients harmoniously.
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Serve: Enjoy your salad immediately, or refrigerate for up to 4 hours to let the flavors meld. For the best texture, add the pecans just before serving to maintain their delightful crunch.
Optional: Garnish with additional blue cheese crumbles for an extra creamy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Maple Kale Salad Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own magic on this scrumptious salad with these exciting twists!
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Vegan Option: Substitute blue cheese with vegan feta or omit cheese altogether for a completely plant-based delight. The salad remains vibrant and satisfying.
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Nuts About Crunch: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different texture and flavor dimension. Each nut brings its own unique crunch, adding delightful variety.
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Fruit Fusion: Experiment with seasonal fruits like pears or pomegranate seeds to elevate sweetness and color. The juicy bursts of flavor will surprise your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an intriguing heat element. This fiery addition can turn up the excitement without overwhelming the salad.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint to brighten the flavor profile. The fresh aroma of herbs can make it feel like a gourmet dish at home.
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Grain Boost: Mix in cooked quinoa or farro for a hearty touch that makes the salad more filling. This makes it an ideal option for lunch or a light dinner.
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Cheese Variants: Try feta or goat cheese in place of blue cheese for a new taste experience. These creamy options can change the whole flavor dynamic beautifully.
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Dressing Enhancement: Add a teaspoon of honey or agave to the dressing for a touch more sweetness, or add a dash of sesame oil to introduce a nutty flavor twist. It’s all about balancing the taste to your liking!
Tips for the Best Maple Kale Salad
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Kale Massage: Massage the kale thoroughly to soften its texture. This step enhances the salad’s overall mouthfeel and ensures the dressing coats each leaf evenly.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh kale and fruit for the best flavor. Wilted or pre-packaged greens can result in a less appetizing salad experience.
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Dressing Balance: Adjust the sweetness in your maple dressing to your taste. Start with less maple syrup, adding more if you desire a sweeter flavor profile.
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Cheese Choice: Opt for high-quality blue cheese for a richer taste. Lower-quality options may lack that creamy depth that makes the Maple Kale Salad with Cranberries and Blue Cheese shine.
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Serve Chilled: For a refreshing salad, chill it in the refrigerator before serving, but remember to add toasted pecans last, preserving their crunch!
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Leftover Use: If you have leftovers, consider using them in a grain bowl or wrap. They make excellent additions to elevate a simple dish!
Make Ahead Options
These Maple Kale Salad with Cranberries and Blue Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the kale and dressing up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring this dish is quick to assemble during your busy week. Start by washing and chopping the kale, then massage it with half of the dressing and store it in an airtight container—this will help to soften the kale without wilting it. The apple, cranberries, pecans, and blue cheese should be added just before serving to maintain their freshness and crunch. This way, you’ll have a vibrant salad ready in minutes, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without the fuss!
How to Store and Freeze Maple Kale Salad with Cranberries and Blue Cheese
Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the pecans separate until serving to maintain their crunch.
Freezer: This salad isn’t ideal for freezing due to the texture of the kale and fresh ingredients. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Reheating: If enjoyed cold, serve straight from the fridge. The creamy blue cheese and crispy pecans pair beautifully with the chilled greens for a delightful taste experience.
What to Serve with Maple Kale Salad with Cranberries and Blue Cheese?
Elevate your dining experience with thoughtful side dishes that complement the vibrant flavors of this fresh salad.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, seasoned chicken adds a savory element that balances the salad’s sweetness perfectly.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Light and fluffy, this nutty side enhances the meal’s overall texture while providing additional protein.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Creamy and caramelized, their natural sweetness echoes the maple dressing for harmonious bites.
- Herbed Focaccia: This soft, aromatic bread is perfect for soaking up the salad’s delicious dressing and creating a comforting meal.
- Sparkling Cider: A refreshing drink with fruity notes that mirror the apples, making each sip a delightful pause.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, creamy and rich chocolate mousse offers a sweet finish, contrasting perfectly with the salad’s vibrant flavors.
Each pairing complements the Maple Kale Salad with Cranberries and Blue Cheese, creating a well-rounded and memorable meal experience.
Maple Kale Salad with Cranberries and Blue Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best kale for this salad?
Absolutely! When selecting kale, look for vibrant green leaves without any yellowing or dark spots all over. The leaves should be firm and crisp to the touch. If possible, choose curly kale or Lacinato (dino) kale for a delightful texture that holds up beautifully in salads.
How should I store leftover Maple Kale Salad?
To store your leftover salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to keep the toasted pecans separate to maintain their crunch. Simply add them before serving for that delightful texture!
Can I freeze Maple Kale Salad with Cranberries and Blue Cheese?
I recommend avoiding freezing this salad as the fresh ingredients, particularly the kale and apples, do not hold up well in the freezer and may turn mushy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh for the most satisfying experience!
What if my dressing is too thick?
Very good question! If you find the dressing is too thick, simply whisk in a little bit of warm water while it’s mixing to achieve the desired consistency. You want it to be smooth and pourable, perfect for drizzling over your salad!
Are there any dietary considerations with this salad?
Definitely! If you or someone at your table has a dairy allergy, you can simply omit the blue cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. For a nut-allergy-friendly version, swap the pecans for sunflower seeds, which provide great crunch without the risk!
How can I enhance the flavors of the salad?
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the dressing. This little tweak can brighten the overall taste and complement the sweet elements beautifully!
Delicious Maple Kale Salad with Cranberries and Blue Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder. Season with sea salt flakes and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, mixing until well combined.
- Place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle half of the dressing over the kale. Use your hands to massage the dressing into the kale leaves for 1–2 minutes, until they are softened and reduced in volume.
- Add the sliced Pink Lady apple, red onion, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled blue cheese to the bowl with kale. Drizzle the remaining dressing on top and toss gently to combine all the ingredients harmoniously.
- Enjoy your salad immediately, or refrigerate for up to 4 hours to let the flavors meld. For the best texture, add the pecans just before serving to maintain their delightful crunch.