Detox Kale Salad with Lemon Apple Vinaigrette

I have to admit…for the first twenty years of my life, I thought kale was nothing more than a garnish used to decorate plated meals and salad bars

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As it turns out, kale is actually one of the healthiest foods we can eat. It’s full of cancer fighting antioxidants, powerful phytonutrients and heart healthy fiber.

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I had some leftover from the Coconut Kale Smoothies I made so I decided to whip-up a quick salad to take with me to work for lunch the next day and I enjoyed it so much that I thought, why not share it with you lovely people?

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I’ve decided to call this bowl of love “Detox Kale Salad” because, well,  kale is crazy good for you and because I used raw apple cider vinegar in the dressing which is thought to cleanse your liver…or something like that. ;)

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Detox Kale Salad with Lemon Apple Vinaigrette

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Ingredients

  • 1 bunch kale, removed from stem and chopped
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries (preferably no sugar added)
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts (could also use almonds, cashews, or walnuts)
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced (about 1/2 of one red onion)

Lemon Apple Vinaigrette

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (use agave nectar for vegan version)

Makes 2 large salads or 4 small

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Directions

Wash kale and dry thoroughly before removing from stem and chopping into bite size pieces.

In a large bowl, combine ingredients for the vinaigrette and mix well.

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Add the kale to the bowl and massage the dressing into the kale for several minutes. Take your time and do it right. Trust me, the kale will return the favor.

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Once the kale has absorbed some of the dressing and is reduced in size, toss the cranberries, pine nuts, and diced red onion on top and mix together.

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Store salad for up to 2 days or serve immediately.

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The slightly sweet and tangy flavors hit your taste buds in all the right places and you will be shocked at how full you’ll feel after you’re done eating it.

It’s satisfying in a way that leaves you feeling light and full of energy, ready to take on whatever the day brings.

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Except working, no one has energy for that…

 

Did you eat kale as a kid?

What vegetable did you hate eating as a child? Mine was brussel sprouts. I love them now because I buy them fresh but my mom used to force us to eat frozen, boiled brussel sprouts and the thought of those things make my spine crawl. Blech. (sorry mama!)

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P.S. My giveaway for a really great fitness DVD is still going so be sure to enter if you want a chance to win!