Fire Cider in the Kitchen: Kale and Apple Salad

The fresh, sweet snap of apples paired with crunchy hazelnuts, tangy cranberries and the firm chew of kale are all brought together with a bright, zingy Fire Cider vinaigrette. This is a wonderful fall side dish or simple supper that really takes advantage of some of the best, fresh products of the season.

IngredientsMakes (8–10 servings):

Dressing:

• 1/4 C Fire Cider Honey-Free
• 2 tbs Dijon mustard
• 2 tbs finely chopped shallot (about 1 medium)
• 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
• 1/2 C extra-virgin olive oil
• salt and pepper to taste

Whisk Fire Cider, mustard, shallot, and garlic in a medium bowl, then whisk in oil in a slow, steady stream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge.

Salad:

• 2/3 C dry-roasted hazelnuts, halved or slightly chopped
• 1 lb kale (about 2 small bunches), stemmed, thinly sliced
• 1 crisp apple, such as Pink Lady or Honeycrisp, cored and sliced or cut into matchsticks
• 1/2 C dried cranberries

Method:

1. Place kale in a large mixing bowl. Add about 3/4 of the dressing, and use your hands to massage into greens. Taste and add more dressing as needed.
2. Add hazelnuts and cranberries; toss together to combine, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Transfer to a serving bowl, and top with apple.