Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Beet & Kale Salad Recipe – Apple, Walnut & Chaat Masala Delight

Introduction

Okay, let’s be real – salads sometimes get a bad rap. They can feel…boring. But trust me on this one. This Beet & Kale Salad is anything but boring! It’s a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures – earthy beets, crisp kale, sweet apple, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy-spicy dressing that just ties everything together. I first made this when I was looking for a healthy yet satisfying lunch, and it’s become a regular in my kitchen ever since. It’s perfect for a light meal, a side dish, or even a potluck contribution. You’ll absolutely love it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with goodness. Beets are fantastic for you, kale is a superfood, and walnuts provide healthy fats. Plus, the chaat masala adds a unique Indian twist that you won’t find in your average salad. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and seriously addictive. Honestly, once you try it, you’ll be craving it all the time!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful salad:

• 1 bunch kale
• 4 small beetroots
• 1 apple
• 0.25 cup walnuts (about 30g)
• 3-4 tablespoons vanilla bean yogurt (about 60-80ml)
• 2 tablespoon fresh orange juice (about 30ml)
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (about 5ml)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil (about 5ml)
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 0.25 teaspoon chaat masala (about 1.25g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference:

Beetroot Varieties & Selection

Any beetroot will work, but I prefer golden beets for their milder flavor and beautiful color. Red beets are classic, though, and give a gorgeous vibrant hue. Look for beets that are firm and smooth, without any soft spots.

Kale Types – Choosing the Right One

Curly kale is the most common, but lacinato (dinosaur) kale is also fantastic. Lacinato kale is a bit more tender, so it requires less massaging (more on that later!).

The Flavor Profile of Chaat Masala

Chaat masala is a magical spice blend! It’s tangy, savory, and slightly spicy. It’s a staple in Indian street food and adds a wonderful complexity to the dressing. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores or online.

Walnut Options – Toasted vs. Raw

Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, keeping a close eye so they don’t burn. Raw walnuts are perfectly fine too, if you’re short on time!

Yogurt Choice – Vanilla Bean & Alternatives

I love using vanilla bean yogurt for a touch of sweetness and a lovely aroma. Plain yogurt works beautifully too, or even a Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, coconut yogurt is a great substitute.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Roast the Beets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the beetroots thoroughly and trim off the stems. Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until a knife easily slides into them. Let them cool slightly before slicing.
2. Prep the Kale: While the beets are roasting, wash and chop the kale. Remove the tough stems and massage the kale with a little olive oil and a pinch of salt for a minute or two. This helps break down the fibers and makes it more tender.
3. Combine the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale, roasted beet slices, diced apple, and walnuts.
4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, orange juice, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, pepper, and chaat masala.
5. Dress & Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture!

Expert Tips

A few little secrets to make this salad even better:

Roasting Beets to Perfection

Don’t skip the foil! It helps the beets steam and cook evenly. You can also check for doneness by piercing with a fork – it should slide in easily.

Massaging the Kale for Tenderness

Seriously, don’t skip this step! Massaging the kale makes a huge difference in texture. It transforms it from tough and bitter to soft and palatable.

Dressing Application – Timing is Key

Add the dressing right before serving to prevent the kale from getting soggy.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Beet & Kale Salad

Simply swap the yogurt for a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt or cashew cream.

Gluten-Free Considerations

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check the label on your chaat masala to ensure it doesn’t contain any hidden gluten.

Spice Level Adjustment – More or Less Chaat Masala

If you like a little extra heat, add a bit more chaat masala. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and taste as you go. My friend, Priya, loves to add a pinch of cayenne pepper too!

Festival Adaptations – Navratri or Diwali Inspired

During Navratri, you can omit the onion and garlic (if you follow the fasting rules). For Diwali, a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds adds a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It’s also a great addition to a buffet or potluck.

Storage Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed immediately. However, you can store the roasted beets and dressing separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the salad just before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

How do I know when the beets are perfectly roasted?

A knife should easily slide into the beets with little resistance. They should be tender but not mushy.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can roast the beets and make the dressing ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad right before serving to prevent the kale from getting soggy.

What can I substitute for walnuts?

Pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds would all be delicious substitutes.

Is chaat masala essential for this recipe?

Not essential, but it really adds a unique and delicious flavor. If you can’t find it, you can try a pinch of cumin, coriander, and chili powder.

Can I use a different type of yogurt?

Absolutely! Plain yogurt, Greek yogurt, or coconut yogurt all work well.