Crunchy Winter Kale Salad with Pomegranate
This vibrant Crunchy Winter Kale Salad with Pomegranate is the ultimate cold-weather dish, blending earthy, massaged curly kale with the crisp sweetness of diced apples and tart pomegranate arils. Topped with spiced, toasted walnuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds, it features a fiery mustard vinaigrette that perfectly balances the bitterness of the greens. This nutrient-dense, plant-based salad is robust enough to serve as a light main course or a stunning side for any holiday gathering, bringing a professional touch to your kitchen in under twenty minutes.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 5
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: Modern American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
1/2 cup almonds, roughly chopped
1/4 cup shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large bunch curly kale, stems removed and chopped
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for massaging)
1 large apple, diced
1/2 cup pomegranate arils
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for dressing)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add 2 teaspoons of olive oil.
Add the walnuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds to the skillet.
Toast the nuts with paprika, cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, then set aside to cool.
Place the prepared kale in a large mixing bowl, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and massage with your hands for 2-3 minutes until the leaves become tender and dark green.
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the 3 tablespoons olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup to create the dressing.
Add the diced apples and pomegranate arils to the massaged kale.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
Top with the spiced toasted nut mixture and serve immediately.
Notes
To save time, toast the nut mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can massage the kale up to an hour before serving to further improve its texture. Feel free to add crumbled feta or goat cheese if not strictly vegan.