This easy kale salad comes together with dried cranberries, pine nuts, Parmesan, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
No need to massage this make-ahead saladthe kale becomes tender as it rests before serving.
Some things take convincing, even when they are terribly trendy.
Elise Bauer
(Oh, I’ll have seconds.
Okay I’ve stopped counting, this is good.)
How To Make Raw Kale Tender
Here’s the deal.
Elise Bauer
In the case of the kale, kale is tougher than lettuce (tougher than spinach too).
Many kale recipes call for massaging kale leaves, but with this recipe you don’t have to.
The greens become tender all on their own with a little time.
Elise Bauer
This approach also makes this salad a great make-ahead salad for parties or potlucks.
What else helps make the kale tender for a salad?
Cutting out the tough midribs and cutting the leaves into thin slices also helps tenderize the leaves.
Using a more tender variety of kale, such as lacinato kale, make a difference as well.
All together it is a deliciously festive salad, and would make a lovely accompaniment for any meal.
We use both interchangeably in this salad.
Spread the pine nuts in an even layer on the bottom of the pan.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
Then remove to a bowl to allow to cool.
Simple Tip!
When toasting nuts: do not take your eyes off of them!
Nuts can go from browned to burned very quickly.
Use a sharp knife to cut out the tough midrib of each kale leaf, and discard or compost.
Slice the leaves crosswise into thin, 1/4 inch wide, slices.
Place the kale slices into a large bowl.
Right before serving, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
