Crunchy Winter Chopped Salad

Winter brings with it a chill in the air and a desire for warm flavors. But who says salads can’t be a part of your winter menu? A Winter Chopped Salad offers the perfect combination of heartiness and freshness, featuring seasonal ingredients that nourish the body and satisfy the palate.

Ingredients

• Salad:

  • 2 cups of kale, finely chopped
  • 1 cup of red cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium apple, diced
  • 1/2 cup of walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup of cranberries, dried or fresh
  • 1/2 cup of crumbled blue cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup of pomegranate seeds

• Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup of olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon of honey
  • 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Start by preparing all your salad ingredients. Wash and chop the kale and red cabbage. Dice the apple and chop the walnuts. If using fresh cranberries, ensure they are rinsed.

2. 

   Mix the Salad:

   • In a large salad bowl, combine the kale, red cabbage, diced apple, walnuts, cranberries, and pomegranate seeds. Toss them well to ensure an even distribution.

3. Prepare the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

4. 

   Combine and Serve:

   • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients. If you’re using blue cheese, sprinkle it on top just before serving.

5. Serve Fresh:

   • Serve the salad fresh with your choice of side dishes or drinks.

Nutritious Value

The Winter Chopped Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Kale and red cabbage offer a high dose of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber. Apples and pomegranate seeds are rich in antioxidants, supporting overall health and boosting the immune system. Walnuts provide a healthy source of omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for heart and brain health. The optional blue cheese adds a source of calcium and protein, complementing the salad’s nutritional profile.

Perfect Pairings

This vibrant salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes and beverages:

• Side Dishes:

  • A warm butternut squash soup to complement the freshness of the salad.
  • Roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips for a hearty addition.

• Drinks:

  • A glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance the salad’s flavors.
  • A warm cup of spiced apple cider for a comforting winter beverage.

Whether you're looking to start your meal with a refreshing appetizer or wanting a light yet fulfilling main dish, this Winter Chopped Salad is bound to become a seasonal favorite.