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Kale and Apple Slaw with Walnut Dressing

A refreshing and nutrient-dense paleo slaw that combines crispy kale, sweet apples, and a creamy walnut dressing. Perfect as a side dish or light meal!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Modern American
Diet: Paleo, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

For the Slaw:

  • 1 large bunch curly kale (about 8 cups), stems removed and finely chopped
  • 2 medium Honeycrisp apples, julienned
  • 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened for strict paleo)
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

For the Walnut Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup raw walnuts, soaked for 2 hours
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2-3 tablespoons water for consistency

Equipment Needed

  • Food processor or high-powered blender
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Salad tongs

Instructions

https://youtu.be/ToFW9CIHaiE?si=1EqptiGxEN-WAxDL
  1. Prepare the Kale:
    • Wash and dry kale leaves thoroughly
    • Remove stems and chop leaves into thin strips
    • Place in a large bowl and massage with hands for 1-2 minutes to tenderize
  2. Make the Dressing:
    • Drain soaked walnuts
    • Combine all dressing ingredients in a food processor
    • Blend until smooth, adding water as needed for desired consistency
    • Taste and adjust seasoning
  3. Prepare Other Ingredients:
    • Core and julienne the apples
    • Thinly slice red onion
    • Toast walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat (175°C/350°F) for 5-7 minutes
    • Chop toasted walnuts
  4. Assemble the Slaw:
    • Combine massaged kale, apples, and onions in the bowl
    • Add dressing and toss well to coat
    • Top with toasted walnuts and cranberries

Nutrition Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 285
  • Total Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Protein: 6g

Tips & Variations

  • For extra crunch, add julienned carrots or jicama
  • Substitute apples with pears for variation
  • Make it Whole30 by omitting honey from dressing
  • Store undressed slaw in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Suggested Pairings

  • Grilled chicken breast
  • Roasted sweet potato wedges
  • Paleo-friendly burger
Courses
Difficulty Beginner
Time
Prep Time: 15 mins Total Time: 15 mins
Cooking Temp 350  F
Calories 285
Dietary Paleo
Description

A refreshing and nutrient-dense paleo slaw that combines crispy kale, sweet apples, and a creamy walnut dressing. Perfect as a side dish or light meal!

Ingredients
    For the Slaw
  • 1 large bunch curly kale (about 8 cups)
  • 2 medium Honeycrisp apples, julienned
  • 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened for strict paleo)
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • For the Walnut Dressing
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 raw walnuts, soaked for 2 hours
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons 2-3 water for consistency
Instructions
  1. Prepare the Kale
    • Wash and dry kale leaves thoroughly
    • Remove stems and chop leaves into thin strips
    • Place in a large bowl and massage with hands for 1-2 minutes to tenderize
  2. Make the Dressing
    • Drain soaked walnuts
    • Combine all dressing ingredients in a food processor
    • Blend until smooth, adding water as needed for desired consistency
    • Taste and adjust seasoning
  3. Prepare Other Ingredients
    • Core and julienne the apples
    • Thinly slice red onion
    • Toast walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat (175°C/350°F) for 5-7 minutes
    • Chop toasted walnuts
  4. Assemble the Slaw
    • Combine massaged kale, apples, and onions in the bowl
    • Add dressing and toss well to coat
    • Top with toasted walnuts and cranberries

Nutrition Facts


Amount Per Serving
Calories 285kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 31g48%
Saturated Fat 2g10%
Sodium 180mg8%
Total Carbohydrate 24g8%
Dietary Fiber 5g20%
Sugars 15g
Protein 6g12%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Tips & Variations

  • For extra crunch, add julienned carrots or jicama
  • Substitute apples with pears for variation
  • Make it Whole30 by omitting honey from dressing
  • Store undressed slaw in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Suggested Pairings

  • Grilled chicken breast
  • Roasted sweet potato wedges
  • Paleo-friendly burger