Winter Kale Apple Mix (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Produce & Fresh Additions

01 - 1/2 small lemon
02 - 6 oz curly kale, finely chopped
03 - 6 oz assorted shredded veggies (like carrots, cabbage, or Brussels sprouts)
04 - 1 1/2 cups butternut squash chunks, ready to roast
05 - 2 medium apples, crunchy and diced
06 - 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds

→ Cheesy Toppings

07 - 4 oz crumbled goat cheese
08 - 1 1/2 cups sugared pecans

→ Dressing From Scratch

09 - 1 tsp coarse salt
10 - 1/2 cup olive oil (extra-virgin)
11 - 4 tsp maple syrup (pure)
12 - 1/2 cup vinegar (red wine)
13 - 4 tsp grainy or Dijon mustard
14 - 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground

# Instructions:

01 - Toss kale into a big bowl, sprinkle with olive oil and lemon juice, and massage for a minute or so. You'll know you're done when the kale looks brighter and softens up.
02 - Mix the diced apples and shredded veggies into the kale. Give it a quick toss so it's all combined.
03 - Combine olive oil, maple syrup, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper in a jar with a lid. Pop the lid on and give it a hard shake for about half a minute until it all blends.
04 - Drizzle the dressing over the salad and stir everything until it's fully coated.
05 - Scatter the pecans, goat cheese, roasted squash, and pomegranate seeds on top. Serve right away.

# Notes:

01 - Rub the kale with lemon and oil to make it tender and less bitter.
02 - When cooking the butternut squash, aim for crispy on the outside and soft inside.
03 - Go for apples that are firm to add a nice crunch.
04 - Feel free to prepare the dressing early and store it chilled.
05 - Keep pecans crunchy by adding them right before you serve.