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Autumn Kale Salad with Maple

Autumn Kale Salad with Maple: Vibrant Fall Flavor Awaits

This Autumn Kale Salad with Maple combines tender kale, sweet apples, and creamy roasted squash for a fall-inspired, vegan, and gluten-free delight.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Vegan
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 bunch Curly Kale Can substitute with Lacinato or Red Russian kale.
  • 1 medium Delicata Squash Can substitute with butternut squash.
  • 1 cup Cooked Brown Lentils
  • 1/2 cup Pecan Halves Can substitute with walnuts or pumpkin seeds.
  • 1 large Apple Use Fuji or Honeycrisp.
  • 1/4 cup Raisins
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar
  • 1/3 cup Pure Maple Syrup Adjust sweetness to taste.
  • 1/3 cup Olive Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

Equipment

  • Large Bowl
  • Mixing Bowl
  • baking sheet
  • mason jar

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by thoroughly rinsing the curly kale under cold water, then remove the tough stems from each leaf. In a large bowl, tear the kale into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt. Massage the kale for 2-3 minutes until it softens and darkens.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the delicata squash into thin rings or half-moons, discarding the seeds. Toss the squash slices with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway.
  3. In a mason jar, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Add sea salt and black pepper to taste. Seal and shake until emulsified.
  4. In a large salad bowl, add the massaged kale and drizzle half of the dressing. Toss to combine. Add the roasted squash, cooked lentils, chopped apple, pecan halves, and raisins. Mix gently.
  5. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad and gently toss again. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for meal prep.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 5000IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store the dressing separately until ready to serve to maintain the kale's crispness. Use seasonal produce for the best flavor.

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