Name: Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 large bunches Kale leaves (washed, stemmed, and chopped); 1 Crisp apple (cored and sliced); 1 small Red onion (thinly sliced); 1/2 cup Sliced almonds (toasted); 1/4 cup Safflower oil; 3 tablespoons Raspberry vinegar; 2 tablespoons Honey; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/4 teaspoon Dried oregano; Sea salt (to taste); Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste)

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Every time I prepare this Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette, I’m reminded of sunny spring afternoons spent outside. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients just scream ‘spring’, and it’s the perfect dish to share with friends. One of my fondest memories is hosting a picnic, and this salad was the star of the show. I love how the combination of crunchy kale, sweet apples, and tangy raspberry vinaigrette creates a flavor explosion that makes everyone come back for seconds. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of freshness and health that leaves you feeling invigorated and satisfied.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
14 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife

The Charm of This Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette

It’s a Nutrient Powerhouse

What I adore about this Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette is how nutrient-dense it is. Kale is a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, and K, packed with antioxidants that help keep our bodies functioning at their best. And with the added crispness of apple slices, you’re getting a boost of fiber and sweetness that balances out the earthiness of the kale.

Simple Yet Elegant

There’s something so elegant about a simple salad. With minimal ingredients, you’re able to create a beautiful dish that brightens up any table. The safflower oil and raspberry vinegar dressing is a breeze to whip up and adds a gourmet touch without the fuss. It’s a reminder that sometimes, less is more.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This salad is great for meal prep. You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, and it holds up beautifully in the fridge, getting even tastier as the flavors meld. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, and you’ll have a refreshing meal ready to go at a moment’s notice.

Versatile and Customizable

One aspect that excites me about this recipe is its versatility. You can switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Feel free to mix in other seasonal fruits, nuts, or seeds to create your own twist. Every time I make it, it’s a little different, and that keeps it interesting!

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual lunch, a picnic, or a holiday gathering, this Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette fits right in. It’s light enough for a summer barbecue but can also be dressed up for a festive dinner. Everyone loves a fresh, vibrant salad that pairs well with any dish.

Encourages Healthy Eating

Lastly, I find that serving a gorgeous salad like this encourages healthier eating habits. It’s a delightful way to get in those greens and inspire others to try something new. I believe that when food looks good, it makes us want to eat it more!

Everything You Need for Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette

In this salad, I focus on fresh, wholesome ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The star of the show is undoubtedly the kale, bringing both texture and nutrition. Toss in a sweet apple for crunch, and the almonds for a delightful toasted flavor, and you’ve got a salad that satisfies and nourishes.

Kale leaves: A nutrient-rich leafy green that forms the base of our salad, known for its robust flavor and health benefits.
Apple: A crisp and sweet fruit that adds freshness and contrast to the bitterness of the kale.
Red onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp bite that complements the sweetness of the apple.
Sliced almonds: Toasted for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that enhances the salad.
Safflower oil: A light oil that adds richness to the dressing without overpowering the salad.
Raspberry vinegar: Provides a tart sweetness that brings all the flavors together.
Honey: Balances the acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
Dijon mustard: Adds depth and a slight kick to the dressing.
Dried oregano: A common herb that introduces an aromatic flavor.
Sea salt: Enhances the overall taste of the salad.
Black pepper: Freshly ground to add a bit of heat and complexity.

Recipe Directions for Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette

Making this Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette is as straightforward as it gets! You’ll love how quick and easy it is to bring this fresh dish together. Just follow these simple steps to create a salad that will impress your family and friends.

Start by preparing your ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the kale leaves, apple slices, red onion, and sliced almonds. Toss them well to ensure an even distribution of flavors. The kale should be bright green and slightly wilted from the gentle massaging you’ll give it.
Next, let’s make the dressing. In a jar or container with a lid, combine the safflower oil, raspberry vinegar, honey, dijon mustard, and dried oregano. Secure the lid tightly and shake the container vigorously until the dressing is well combined. You want it to be emulsified, so give it a good shake!
Once your dressing is ready, it’s time to season. Open the jar and taste the dressing. Add sea salt and black pepper to your liking. A hint of salt balances the sweetness of the honey and raspberry vinegar.
When you’re ready to eat, pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together gently to ensure each piece of kale is coated with the dressing. The colors should become vibrant and the flavors meld beautifully.
Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps the kale absorb the flavors from the dressing and softens it slightly. You want the kale to be tender but still crisp and fresh.
Finally, serve the salad immediately in bowls. You can garnish with a few extra sliced almonds on top for added crunch. Enjoy your delicious and healthy Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette!

Things Worth Knowing

Kale Preparation: To make the kale easier to eat, consider massaging it with a bit of olive oil and salt before adding other ingredients. This process breaks down the fibrous structure, making it tender.
Ingredient Integrity: Using fresh ingredients is crucial. The quality of your apple and kale will greatly impact the overall flavor and texture of your salad.
Dress Just Before Serving: To maintain the crispness of the salad, dress it just before serving. If you let it sit too long, the kale can get soggy.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat again.

Tips for Success

Creating a delicious Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette is a breeze when you keep these tips in mind. Follow these suggestions for a salad that shines.

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last for up to two days.
Freezing: This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the texture of kale and the apple. It’s best fresh!
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. It’s a brilliant side dish for any outdoor barbecue.
Ingredient Quality: Use the freshest ingredients possible. Organic kale and local apples will elevate your salad significantly.
Make it a Meal: Turn this salad into a full meal by adding proteins like chickpeas or quinoa. It will not only make it heartier but also add even more nutrients.
Experiment: Feel free to experiment! Add your favorite nuts, fruits, or even cheeses to customize the salad to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

This Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette shines in a variety of settings. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a simple lunch, it’s sure to impress.

As a Side Dish: Serve this salad alongside grilled chicken or fish for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with any protein.
Picnics: Take this salad to picnics or potlucks; it travels well and offers a healthy option among heavier fare.
Seasonal Gatherings: Ideal for spring and summer gatherings, it adds a burst of color and health to your table.
Lunch Prep: This salad is great for meal prep. Make it on a Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week for lunch.
Garnish Ideas: Consider garnishing with additional sliced almonds or even crumbled feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Creative Variations: Feel free to add different fruits like pears or nuts like walnuts for a unique twist. The salad is versatile and can be adapted to your taste.

FAQ

Absolutely! While raspberry vinegar pairs beautifully with the other flavors in this Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a different taste. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile might change. Experimenting with different vinegars can lead to a unique twist on the original recipe.

To reduce the bitterness of the kale, consider massaging it before adding other ingredients. Simply sprinkle a pinch of salt and a drizzle of oil over the chopped kale and use your hands to gently rub the leaves. This process helps break down the cell walls, making the leaves softer and milder in flavor, resulting in a more enjoyable salad.

Definitely! Adding protein is a great way to make your Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette more filling. You can mix in cooked chicken, chickpeas, or even feta cheese for added flavor. This will not only enhance the nutritional aspect but also make it a complete meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

To store leftovers of your Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette, transfer them into an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. The salad is best consumed within two days for optimal freshness. Remember to keep the dressing separate if possible, as it can make the salad soggy over time.

Conclusion

The Raw Kale Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette is not just a dish; it’s a refreshing experience that captivates your taste buds. Its unique combination of ingredients brings health and flavor to your table. I encourage you to try making it soon; you and your loved ones will not be disappointed. Enjoy the delightful crunch and vibrant flavors that this salad has to offer!