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Creamy Harvest Kale Salad with Pecans

creamy harvest kale salad with pecans - featured image
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A quick, 10-minute healthy side dish featuring sturdy lacinato kale massaged with a creamy Greek yogurt and tahini dressing, topped with toasted pecans and dried cranberries for a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large bunch lacinato (dinosaur) kale, stems removed and leaves chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup raw pecan halves
  • 1/2 cup plain, full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1–2 teaspoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 2 stalks green onion, thinly sliced
  • Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Toast the pecans in a small skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove, cool completely, and crush slightly.
  2. Wash and thoroughly dry the kale. Remove tough stems and chop leaves into 1-inch pieces.
  3. Place kale in a large mixing bowl, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and massage with hands for 2-3 minutes until leaves are soft and glossy.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, tahini, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  5. Pour dressing over the massaged kale and toss to coat evenly. Let sit for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Just before serving, fold in dried cranberries, green onions, and toasted pecans.
  7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour.

Notes

Massaging the kale is essential to break down fibers and improve texture. Toasting pecans enhances their flavor. For meal prep, store dressed kale separately from crunchy mix-ins to maintain texture. The salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance if mix-ins are added just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: kale salad, healthy side dish, creamy dressing, pecans, tahini, gluten-free, dairy-free option, fall recipe, quick salad

Find it online: https://sizzlesprout.com/creamy-harvest-kale-salad-with-pecans-easy-10-minute-healthy-side/