Kale Apple Slaw with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing

Kale apple slaw with honey mustard dressing in a bowl with apple slices fanned on top.

Kale Apple Slaw with Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing

Easy Kale Apple Slaw like you find at Tropical Smoothie Cafe takes minutes to make and you never have to leave the house!

Course Salad

Cuisine American

Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Servings servings

Calories 116kcal

Author Marjory Pilley

Ingredients

Honey Mustard Dressing

3 Tablespoons mayonnaise
1 Tablespoon honey or agave nectar for a vegan version
1 ½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 ½ teaspoons apple cider vinegar
¼ teaspoon celery seed

Salad

6 cups curly kale about 2 bunches; stems removed; leaves chopped or torn into small pieces. See notes below on the optional step of massaging kale.
2 apples diced; We used a sweet Ambrosia apple, but any type will work. See notes below to prevent browning.
2 cups carrots sliced or shredded

Instructions

Honey Mustard Dressing

Combine dressing ingredients in a bowl or a small jar with a lid. Shake to thoroughly combine.

Salad

Toss prepared kale, apples, carrots, and honey mustard dressing in a large serving bowl.

Video

Notes

See step-by-step pictures above.

Make ahead: Kale apple slaw can be made ahead of time. For the best results, prepare the dressing, and chop the kale, carrots, and apples in advance, then store them separately. Mix in the dressing right before serving.

Storage: Kale apple salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, if it is made with a hearty variety of kale, it will hold up pretty well until the next day. Store it in an airtight container.

Browning Apples: The best way to keep apples from turning brown in kale apple slaw is to coat them with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar used to make the dressing. It will not detract from the final dish. The acidity slows oxidation so the diced apple stays fresh, crisp, and bright.

Massaging Kale: Massaging the kale with a little olive oil or lemon juice helps soften the leaves and take away any bitterness. If you’re using baby kale, you can skip this step since it’s naturally more tender.

Nutrition