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Kale Salad with Kohlrabi, Orange, and Candied Pecans
Introduction
Are you looking for a salad that’s both incredibly flavorful and packed with nutrients? This Kale Salad with Kohlrabi, Orange, and Candied Pecans is a game-changer! It’s easy to prepare, naturally delicious, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Get ready to enjoy a vibrant and healthy dish!
Why You’ll Love It
- The combination of kale, kohlrabi, and orange provides a burst of fresh, naturally sweet and earthy flavors.
- Candied pecans add a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
- It’s incredibly easy to make – no complicated cooking techniques required!
- This salad is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan with a simple swap.
- It’s versatile enough to be served as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a potluck contribution.
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing and appetizing.
- Kale is a powerhouse of nutrients, making this salad a healthy and guilt-free indulgence.
What Makes This Recipe Unique?
What sets this Kale Salad apart is the unique combination of flavors and textures. The bitterness of the kale is balanced by the sweetness of the orange and candied pecans, while the kohlrabi adds a crisp, slightly peppery note. This balance, achieved with all naturally sourced ingredients, keeps you coming back for more. The light and tangy dressing ties everything together, creating a harmonious and satisfying salad experience.
Ingredient List
- 1 bunch of kale, washed and chopped.
- 1 medium kohlrabi, peeled and julienned or thinly sliced.
- 2 oranges, peeled and segmented. The orange provides a fresh citrus flavor.
- 1/2 cup candied pecans, store-bought or homemade.
- 1/4 cup olive oil.
- 2 tablespoons orange juice.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Kale: Wash the kale thoroughly and remove the tough stems. Chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.
- Massage the Kale: Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the kale and massage it for 2-3 minutes. This helps to tenderize the kale and make it easier to digest.
- Prepare the Kohlrabi: Peel the kohlrabi and julienne or thinly slice it. Add it to the bowl with the kale.
- Add the Orange Segments: Peel the oranges and carefully segment them, removing any seeds. Add the orange segments to the bowl.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Salad: Pour the dressing over the kale, kohlrabi, and orange. Toss gently to combine.
- Add the Candied Pecans: Sprinkle the candied pecans over the salad just before serving.
- Serve: Serve immediately or chill for later. The flavors will meld together even further as it sits.
Optional Toppings/Variations
Want to customize your kale salad? Here are some ideas:
- Add crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese for a tangy and creamy element.
- Include dried cranberries or cherries for added sweetness and chewiness.
- Toss in some toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Try different citrus fruits like grapefruit or blood oranges for a unique flavor twist.
Expert Tips
- Massage the Kale: Don’t skip massaging the kale! This step is crucial for tenderizing the leaves and making them more palatable.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tanginess, naturally adjusting it to your liking.
- Prepare Ahead: You can prepare the kale, kohlrabi, and dressing ahead of time and store them separately. Combine them just before serving to prevent the kale from getting soggy.
- Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the salad! Opt for fresh, ripe oranges and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Toast the Pecans: For an even richer flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before candying them. Keep a close watch as they can burn quickly!
- Make your own Candied Pecans: If you don’t want to buy them, make your own. It is really easy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I substitute the kohlrabi?
Yes, you can substitute the kohlrabi with broccoli stalks (peeled) or celery. Both options will provide a similar crunch and slightly peppery flavor.
- Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios would be delicious in this salad. Just make sure they are candied for that extra touch of sweetness.
- How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?
This salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to prevent the kale from getting soggy.
- Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan by substituting the honey in the dressing with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Can I add protein to this salad?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu would all be great additions to make this salad a more substantial meal.
- Is there a naturally way to sweeten the pecans?
Maple syrup and coconut sugar are all-natural alternatives to white sugar.
Variations and Customization Options
Get creative with your Kale Salad! Try these variations:
- Spicy Kale Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
- Tropical Kale Salad: Include chunks of mango and pineapple for a tropical twist.
- Autumn Kale Salad: Incorporate roasted butternut squash and dried cranberries for a fall-inspired dish.
- Mediterranean Kale Salad: Add cucumber, tomatoes, and Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean flair.
Serving Suggestions
This Kale Salad with Kohlrabi, Orange, and Candied Pecans is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a light lunch, a side dish at a dinner party, or a healthy snack. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or vegetarian mains. You can also bring it to potlucks and gatherings – it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Conclusion
Ready to enjoy a salad that’s bursting with flavor and naturally good for you? This Kale Salad with Kohlrabi, Orange, and Candied Pecans is a simple yet impressive dish that will quickly become a favorite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and prepare to indulge in a truly satisfying salad experience. Share your photos with us when you try the recipe. Happy cooking!
