Kale and Celery Waldorf Salad

Name: Kale and Celery Waldorf Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 4 cups kale leaves (washed and chopped); 2 celery stalks (sliced); 2 apples (cored and diced); 1/2 cup walnuts (toasted and chopped); 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tbsp honey; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

20 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

A refreshing twist on the classic Waldorf Salad with kale and celery, offering a crisp texture and a burst of flavours.

Prep

20 min

Total

20 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

The Kale and Celery Waldorf Salad is a delightful variation of the traditional Waldorf Salad, incorporating the hearty texture of kale and the crunch of celery. This salad is perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy, yet flavourful dish that can be served as a side or even a light main course. Kale, known for its robust flavour and nutritional benefits, pairs wonderfully with the crispness of celery and the sweetness of apples. The addition of walnuts and a creamy dressing ties everything together, making this salad a crowd favourite at any gathering.

Instructions

Prepare the kale

In a large bowl, add the chopped kale leaves. Massage the kale with your hands for about 2-3 minutes until the leaves become tender and darken slightly.

Pro tip: Massaging kale helps break down its fibrous texture, making it more palatable.

Combine the salad ingredients

Add the sliced celery, diced apples, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries to the bowl with the kale. Toss to combine.

Pro tip: Use a variety of apple for a mix of sweet and tart flavours.

Prepare the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Pro tip: Adjust the seasoning to taste after mixing.

Dress the salad

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

Pro tip: Add the dressing gradually to avoid overdressing the salad.

Chill the salad

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Chilling the salad allows the flavours to meld together for a better taste.

Serve

Serve the salad cold, garnished with additional walnuts or cranberries if desired.

Pro tip: Serve on chilled plates for an extra refreshing experience.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure the kale is massaged well to soften the leaves and enhance flavour.
Use fresh, crisp apples for the best texture and taste.
Toast the walnuts for added depth of flavour.
Chill the salad before serving for optimal freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What apples are best for a kale Waldorf salad?

Crisp and sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work well in a kale Waldorf salad.

Can I make a kale Waldorf salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the components separately and combine just before serving to maintain freshness.

How do I soften kale for salad?

Massage the kale leaves with your hands for 2-3 minutes to soften them.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the dressing?

You can substitute mayonnaise with more Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.

How long should I chill the salad before serving?

Chill the salad for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Kale and Celery Waldorf Salad chilled for a refreshing side dish at your next barbecue or family dinner. It pairs excellently with grilled meats or can be served as part of a larger salad buffet. To make ahead, prepare the salad components separately and combine them just before serving to maintain the crispness of the ingredients. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.