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apple kale chickpea crunch salad recipe

Apple Kale Chickpea Crunch Salad

Avatar photoNina Miller
A delightful and crunchy salad perfect for fall, featuring crisp apples, tender kale, and protein-rich chickpeas.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 240 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large salad bowl
  • 1 Knife for chopping
  • 1 Cutting board

Ingredients
  

Salad

  • 2 cups kale chopped
  • 1 cup chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 1 large apple diced
  • 1/4 cup almonds sliced and toasted
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds toasted

Dressing

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Wash and dry the kale thoroughly. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Massage the kale with a pinch of salt to tenderize.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale, chickpeas, and diced apple. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
  • Top the salad with sliced almonds and pumpkin seeds. Toss gently to combine.

Serving

  • Transfer the salad to serving plates. Enjoy immediately for the best crunch.

Storage

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be prepared ahead of time.

Notes

Pro Tips: For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of feta cheese. Use a mix of apple varieties for a balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Ingredient Substitutions: Swap chickpeas with white beans, or use sunflower seeds instead of almonds for a nut-free version.
How to Serve: This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. It also complements hearty soups and stews.
Storage & Freshness: Keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Best enjoyed fresh.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the kale and dressing in advance, but combine with other ingredients just before serving to maintain crunch.
Keyword Chickpea Salad, kale salad recipe, protein salad