Kale Apple Pistachio Salad with Dijon-Thyme Dressing
Kale is in season this fall, and if you’re picking it up fresh from the market, make sure to give it a good wash. I always recommend cleaning and prepping your greens as soon as you bring them home — that way, they’re ready to toss into salads, sautés, or soups all week long.
This Kale Apple Pistachio Salad has been my go-to when I’m craving an antioxidant boost. It’s made with sturdy Lacinato kale (perfect for meal prep!), crisp green apple, and salted pistachios for that irresistible crunch. The Dijon-thyme dressing adds a bright, tangy flavor with just a touch of sweetness from raw honey. It’s simple, nourishing, and incredibly versatile — toss it with salmon, serve it over quinoa, or enjoy it just as it is.
Kale Apple Pistachio Salad with Dijon-Thyme Dressing
Servings: 4 | Prep time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
For the salad:
2 bunches Lacinato kale, washed, chopped
1 green apple, thinly sliced
⅓ cup salted pistachios
Optional: top with shaved parmesan
For the dressing:
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp cup apple cider vinegar
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tbsp raw honey
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Make the Dressing:
In a large bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.Prepare the Kale:
Wash, destem and chop the kale. Add the chopped kale to the dressing bowl and evenly coat.Assemble the Salad:
Add the sliced apple and pistachios to the kale. Pour dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.Finish & Serve:
Top with shaved Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately or let it sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.