Kale Apple Walnut Salad With Creamy Walnut Dressing

Kale Apple Walnut Salad With Creamy Walnut Dressing

Kale Apple Walnut Salad with Creamy Walnut Dressing: A Perfect Kale Salad for The Cooler Months

This Kale Apple Walnut Salad is one of many great easy salad recipes. I pull it out as one of my fall salads or a healthy dose of green in the winter months. This hearty kale salad also makes a great addition to any Thanksgiving menu.

I love Massaged Kale Salads. They are easy, healthy, and a great way to eat more veggies.

Kale Apple Walnut Salads are not new to the internet. However, I love them because you can take that base salad concept and make it your own with additional ingredient add-ins and different salad dressings.

Image of Kale Apple Walnut Salad

The Ingredients in This Kale Salad Recipe

Massaged Kale: Massaging the kale leaves allows for a more palatable salad. Each bite is more manageable and chewable. Check out my article all about How to Create the Perfect Kale Salad. Lacinato kale works well in this salad but you could also use a curly kale or baby kale. 

Walnuts: I use freshly toasted crunchy walnuts in the salad dressing and as a salad topper. Walnuts, like many other nuts, are heart-healthy! I love the nutty and earthy flavor.

Fresh Apples: In this recipe, I use two different types of “all-purpose” apples. I use sweet Honeycrisp apples, Granny Smith, or Pink Lady. These tangy apples are crisp with sweet-tart harmonies and hints of berry flavors.

If you want to substitute the apple, I recommend pears. I recommend a crispier pear variety like a Bosc pear. You could also sub in celery for a crunchy addition or even fennel with a licorice-like flavor.

I prefer to cut the apples into thin matchsticks but diced apples work well too. 

Crispy Quinoa: This is a fun way to incorporate whole grains into your salad. You could use cooked quinoa that is not crispy to make this more of a grain bowl, but I love the crispy quinoa over-top the salad for a crispy, crunchy, and nutty finish. The little black specs in my photos are crispy quinoa. 

Image of ingredients in Kale Apple Walnut Salad

The Creamy Walnut Dressing 

I keep this dressing creamy yet mayo-free by using toasted walnuts. Blending nuts into a salad dressing is a delightful way to create a creamy dressing that is 100% plant-based.

Don’t have Walnuts or a blender to turn freshly roasted Walnuts into a creamy dressing? No problem, you can use tahini or creamy almond butter instead.

Don’t have walnut oil? Olive oil will also work in this recipe. 

For the full details on this recipe, check out my post on this Creamy Vegan Apple Walnut Dressing.

A light brown creamy dressing with a beige spoon dipped. The white bowl with dressing is surrounded by walnuts.

Step By Step Instructions

Make the Dressing:

  • In a blender or food processor, combine the walnut oil, toasted walnuts, apple juice, apple cider vinegar, water, maple syrup, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  • Blend until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, add more water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Prepare the Kale:

  • In a large salad bowl, add the chopped kale. ( I like to chop the kale into thin strips)
  • Add 1/4 cup of the salad dressing over the kale. Massage the dressing into the kale with your hands for a few minutes until it becomes tender.

Prepare the Salad:

  • Add the sliced crunchy apples and toasted walnuts to the large bowl. 

Assemble the Salad:

  • Pour more dressing (to your liking) over the salad and toss to combine.
  • Sprinkle the crispy quinoa on top just before serving for added crunch.
  • Serve immediately or let it sit for a bit to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container. 

This is Kale Apple Walnut Salad

Substitutions & Additions

Substitutions

  • Walnuts: Option to substitute the crunchy walnuts for other crunchy nuts or seeds such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or almonds. 
  • Apples: Option to substitute the apples with another fruit such as pomegranate seeds, dried cherries, or dried cranberries.

Additions

Do you want to bulk up this Kale Apple Walnut Salad? You can add roasted butternut squash, roasted chicken, or leftover Thanksgiving turkey. 

Feeling like you want some cheese? You can add some vegan feta or, if not trying to keep this a plant-based salad, feel free to incorporate some cheese! Feta cheese, blue cheese, or goat cheese would taste great in this recipe.

I love to encourage creativity in the kitchen. Let this recipe bring on the inspiration!

Vibrant green kale that has been chopped, gathered between two hands over a cutting board

Tips and Tricks

Washing Kale

Tip: Use a Salad Spinner

One of my favorite ways to wash lettuce and greens for salads is with a large bowl of cold water and a salad spinner. 

Washing lettuce and kale for salads is so much easier with a salad spinner. I like to submerge the kale leaves in a large bowl of clean cold water and swish them around. This will loosen any dirt or debris and it will sink to the bottom of the bowl. 

Then, rinse the kale with cool running water and add it to your salad spinner to remove excess water from formthe leaves

Dealing with Leftovers

​Dressing Tip: 

This dressing is simple, and a great recipe to make in bulk and in advance. You can freeze or save it for another recipe for later in the week, like Apple Walnut Marinated Tofu, tempeh, chicken, or salmon.

Salad Tip: If eating this salad for leftovers the next day (so good), don’t add all the crispy quinoa at once to the salad. Despite the name, crispy quinoa that is added to the salad and stored in the fridge will not retain its crispiness overnight. For best results, top each salad before serving. 

Enjoy This Recipe? Check Out These Delicious Salad Recipes

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Arugula Cottage Cheese Salad with Balsamic Dressing

Easy Italian Grinder Salad (Viral Tik Tok Recipe)

Easy Spinach Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad

Image of Kale Apple Walnut Salad

Kale Apple Walnut Salad

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This Kale Apple Walnut Salad has massaged kale, cut apples, toasted walnuts, and crispy quinoa. So healthy and so delicious.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 483 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Blender
  • 1 salad bowl
  • 1 spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 3 lbs kale about 3 bunches
  • 2 apple, sliced See recipe note.
  • 2 cup walnuts toasted
  • 1/2 cup crispy quinoa

Creamy Walnut Dressing

  • 1 cup walnuts toasted
  • 1/4 cup walnut oil
  • 1/3 cup apple cider or apple juice
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

Make the Dressing

  • In a blender or food processor, combine the walnut oil, toasted walnuts, apple cider, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
  • Blend until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, add more water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Prepare the Kale

  • In a large salad bowl, add the chopped kale. ( I like to chop the kale into thin strips).
  • Add 1/4 cup of the salad dressing over the kale. Massage the dressing into the kale with your hands for a few minutes until it becomes tender.

Prepare the Salad

  • Add the sliced crunchy apples and toasted walnuts to the large bowl.
  • Assemble the Salad
  • Pour more dressing (to your liking) over the salad and toss to combine.
  • Sprinkle the crispy quinoa on top just before serving for added crunch.
  • Serve immediately or let it sit for a bit to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container. 

Notes

If you halve this recipe, make the full amount of dressing and save it for future salads or marinades. I've used this slathered over salmon and as a chicken marinade and it is perfection. 
Apples: I like to cut the apple into thick matchstick like slices but but diced works too. I used one honey crispy apple and one Green Newtown Pippin apple.  

Nutrition

Calories: 483kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 13gFat: 39gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 27gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 168mgPotassium: 918mgFiber: 12gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 17065IUVitamin C: 162mgCalcium: 487mgIron: 5mg
Keyword appetizer, kale, salad
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Honey Old Bay Chicken Wings Recipe In The Air Fryer

Honey Old Bay Chicken Wings Recipe In The Air Fryer

Honey Old Bay Wings Recipe

This wing recipe is perfect for game day, family gathering, or your next weeknight dinner the whole family will love. 

 

Before I discovered the magic of air fryer chicken wings, I thought I could only get good wings at a restaurant, deep fried, slathered in sauce! During football season, these AIR FRYER wings are an easier and less expensive alternative to ordering out!

 

As a Maryland girl, Old Bay seasoning has a special place in my heart, reminiscent of crab feasts, the salty Atlantic beach air, and warm summers. This easy chicken wing recipe is perfectly paired with a honey Old Bay sauce, bringing a taste of Maryland to your table.

This article contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through these links.

Chicken Wings on a plate with sauces to the side

What You Will Need

  • Air Fryer
  • 2 Large Mixing Bowls
  • Meausing Spoons and Utensils
  • Tongs for flipping wings

Ingredients

Originally, I made this recipe with a honey Old Bay sauce made with honey, old bay, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and hot sauce.

I would first cook the wings, then coat them in the sauce. However, I’ve since changed my favorite Honey Old Bay Wings recipe because I prefer this as a dry rub recipe!

For the new method, you rub your seasonings on the wings before cooking. Then, once they are cooked, you finish the wings off with a drizzle of your favorite honey.

  • ​Chicken Wings
  • Avocado Oil
  • Old Bay
  • Salt and Black Pepper
  • Honey

 

Tossing Chicken wings in a large bowl

Step By Step How To Make Honey Old Bay Wings Recipe

Prep the Wings:

  • Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  • In a large bowl, add avocado oil, old bay, salt, and pepper and rub it into the chicken until evenly coated.

Cook the Wings in the Air Fryer:

  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes.
  • Place wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
  • Air fry the wings at 400°F  for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are crispy, golden brown, and cooked through.

Drizzle Honey Over Wings:

  • Once the wings are done, transfer them your serving platter and drizzle the honey over the wings.

Serve and Enjoy:

  • Serve these party wings with carrot or celery sticks, ranch, or blue cheese, and enjoy!

Serving Size and Time for This Crispy Chicken Wings Recipe

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.

Estimated Total Time:

  • Prep Time: 5 to 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 to 20 minutes
  • Glaze Preparation: 5 minutes (to be completed during the cook time)
  • Total Time: 23 to 30 minutes

Honey Old Bay Chicken Wings in an Air Fryer Basket over top a blue and white checkard napkin

My Favorite Sauces to Make From Scratch for Air-Fryer Wings

As convenient as store-bought sauces can be, it’s surprisingly easy (and fun) to make your sauces from scratch! Additionally, you can go beyond the classic buffalo and BBQ sauces.

Try out some of my favorite sauces with incredible flavors. 

Wet Sauces:

Dry Rubs:

Tips For Making The Best Air Fryer Wings

Tip #1: Preheat the air fryer.

You preheat an oven, same goes for the air fryer. 400°F for about 5 minutes should do the trick!

Tip #2: Arrange Wings in a SINGLE Layer.

For extra crispy air fryer wings, the wings need space to ensure even cooking. Overcrowing the basket can lead to unevenly cooked wings.

This means, if you are making a large amount of wings, you will need to cooking them in batches.

Tip #3: For extra crispy wings, serve sauce on the side.

This might be my personal preference, but eversince I started ordering my wings with sauce on the side, I’ve never gone back!

They stay super crispy and I can add as much sauce as I would like for dunking or drizzling!

Tip #4: For easy speedy cleanup use a liner.

For easy speedy clean up use an airfryer liner or tin foil. Be sure to clean the basket after each use, the liner might not get everything, but it will make cleanup easier.

You can purchase these on Amazon, Walmart, or Target.

 

 

Honey Old Bay Wings on a plate with carrots and cucumbers

Enjoy This Recipe? Check Out These Other Chicken Recipes!

Southwest Chicken Bowl: An Easy Weeknight Meal

The Ultimate Franks Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip

Homemade Coconut Lime Chicken Chowder: AIP-Compliant

Easy Homemade Apple Pecan Chicken Salad

Honey Old Bay Chicken Wings in an Air Fryer Basket over top a blue and white checkard napkin

Honey Old Bay Wings Recipe (Air Fryer Recipe)

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This Honey Old Bay Wings Recipe is crispy with less calories from fat! Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 342 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Air Fryer
  • 2 large bowls
  • 1 set of measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients
  

Chicken Wings

  • 2 lbs chicken wings
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ cup honey

Instructions
 

Prep the Wings

  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes.
  • Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  • In a large bowl, add avocado oil, old bay, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to rub the oil and seasonings into the wings until evenly coated.

Cook the Wings in the Air Fryer

  • Place wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
  • Air fry the wings at 400°F  for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are crispy, golden brown, and cooked through.

Drizzle Honey Over Wings

  • Once the wings are done, transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle the honey over the wings.

Serve

  • Serve these party wings with carrot or celery sticks, ranch, or blue cheese, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 342kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 23gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 94mgSodium: 712mgPotassium: 218mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 17gVitamin A: 210IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 29mgIron: 2mg
Keyword 30 minutes or less
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The Best 7-Ingredient Southwest Marinade For Chicken

The Best 7-Ingredient Southwest Marinade For Chicken

The Best Southwest Marinade For Chicken

This Southwest Marinade for chicken pairs bold flavors of typical of Southwest cuisine, with the acidity from the lime and apple cider vinegar to help tenderize the chicken, ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful. This marinade is perfect for grilling during the warmer months and baking when the weather is chilly.

Easy Southwest Marinade for chicken in a small bowl next to a bowl of quinoa salad.

Why You Need To Make This Southwest Chicken Marinade Recipe

This recipe is easy to whip together and makes a healthy delicious roast or grilled chicken. However, the fact that this recipe is super easy isn’t the only reason you need to make this recipe.

This recipe is also:

Versatile: Make this with roasted pork, grilled veggies, or grilled or baked tofu steaks.

Healthy: This recipe is a great addition to healthy flexitarian eating. A homemade marinade allows you to control the ingredients.

Cost-Effective: This recipe is economical to make and more cost-effective than buying pre-made marinades.

Totally Customizable: Making marinade from scratch allows you to adjust spices and ingredients to suit your taste preference and accommodate any dietary restrictions you may have.

Sliced Southwest Grilled Chicken on a cutting board next to a slice of lime.

Southwest Chicken Bowl – Sliced Chicken

Ingredients In Southwest Chicken Marinade

These simple marinade ingredients combined are perfect for your next southwest chicken dish.

  • Olive Oil
  • Apple Cider Vinegar
  • Limes – I use fresh lime juice and lime zest
  • Oregano
  • Chili Powder
  • Ground Cumin
  • Garlic Powder

Optional: onion powder (for more oniony flavors), smoked paprika (for a touch of smokiness), brown sugar (for a touch of sweetness), sea salt, and black pepper.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, oregano, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder, lime juice, and lime zest until well blended.

Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, if desired.

If using to marinate chicken…

Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.

Refrigerate: Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.

Cook: Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook as desired, whether grilling, roasting, or pan-frying.

Easy Southwest Marinade for chicken in a small bowl next to a bowl of quinoa salad.

Serving Suggestions

Let’s review some ideas for serving this marinade! I can guide you to creating a complete and healthy meal.

Use this marinade on skinless chicken breasts for delicious grilled southwest chicken breasts. Marinate the raw chicken pieces in airtight containers or ziplock bag overnight or for 24hrs. Then grill your chicken until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.

Serve the grilled chicken in a delicious meal, such as :

  • Plain along side some simple cooked and seasoned black beans and rice.
  • The protein topper for burrito bowls with grilled green bell peppers and red onions, and fresh corn salsa.
  • Served over a simple green salad with fresh herbs, such as fresh cilantro.

Try this recipe as meal prep for the week! Make enough for a week of lunches with burrito bowls, salads, and wraps.

Other Recipes to Try!

Quick Chopped Greek Salad: A Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Recipe

A bowl full with a grain salad with colorful veggies including peppers and greens topped with a creamy dressing

Black Bean Mango Salad Recipe: Ready In Minutes!

Black Bean Mango Salad in a wooden bowl with a wooden spoon and grey linen napkin

Easy Southwest Marinade for chicken in a small bowl next to a bowl of quinoa salad.

Southwest Marinade For Chicken

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This marinade pairs well with the bold flavors typical of Southwest cuisine, and the acidity from the lime and apple cider vinegar helps tenderize the chicken, ensuring it's juicy and flavorful.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Course Main Course, marinade
Cuisine American
Calories 1.021 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Bowl
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 Set measuring spoons

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 lime juiced and zested
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, oregano, cumin, and garlic powder until well blended.
  • Add salt and pepper to taste, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 1.021kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 2gFat: 109gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 12gMonounsaturated Fat: 79gSodium: 78mgPotassium: 288mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1.279IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 94mgIron: 4mg
Keyword easy
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Honey Almond Cottage Cheese Spread

Honey Almond Cottage Cheese Spread

Healthy Honey Almond Cream Cheese

Bagels can be a satisfying and delicious addition to your healthy lunches and breakfasts. 

 

I try to keep my bagel breakfast balanced with the addition of fruit, veggies, and protein.

 

Light cream cheese is great, but one of my favorite combinations is a bagel topped with my homemade Healthy Honey Almond Cream Cheese, which includes cottage cheese as a secret ingredient. It is terrific on English muffins, spooned over Croffles (one of my favorite Korean Recipes), or spread over top of a plain bagel from your local bagel shop. 

 

My favorite is this spread on a blueberry bagel, especially Dave’s Killer Bread cinnamon raisin Bagels. 

Healthy-Panera-Honey-Walnut-Cream-Cheese-Breakfast

Ingredients and Tips

Cottage Cheese – I prefer a full-fat cottage cheese for the most flavor.

Honey – In a pinch, you can swap for maple syrup.

Almonds – I prefer to use toasted almonds. It will give the spread more flavor. If you have food allergies to almonds, you can use sunflower seeds.

Vanilla Extract – You could swap for almond extract

Salt – I use flakey sea salt or kosher salt

Step-By-Step Instructions

  1. In a food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth.
  2. Add the chopped almonds, honey, vanilla, and salt to the food processor. Blend well.
  3. Taste the mixture and adjust the honey to your liking.
  4. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  5. Enjoy your homemade honey almond cream cheese spread on bagels, toast, or as a dip for fruit.

 

Healthy-Panera-Honey-Walnut-Cream-Cheese

Creating a Balanced Breakfast

You may have heard breakfast is “the most important meal of the day” for many, and this is true. Numerous studies have found eating a balanced breakfast regularly is associated with a range of health benefits including reducing the risk of obesity, type II diabetes, and better school performance in children and adolescents.

 A balanced breakfast includes a variety of nutrients in appropriate proportions to provide energy while promoting satiety.

I like to start my day with a balanced breakfast because it kickstarts my healthy eating for the rest of the day. You might be thinking, but Sarah, bagels are NOT healthy. Au contraire, my friend.

Bagels have carbohydrates, fiber, and protein. But most of all, I love the taste! I especially love bagels because I engage in regular exercise. Bagels are a convenient and tasty way to fuel my workouts. 

 

Tips On Creating a Balanced Breakfast

Here are some tips for creating a balanced breakfast.

  • Pick more Protein
  • Focus on Fiber
  • Choose Healthy Fats
  • Limit Added Sugar
  • Don’t forget those Vitamins and Minerals

 

Healthy-Panera-Honey-Walnut-Cream-Cheese-cinnamon-raisin

Ingredient Spotlight: Dave’s Killer Bread Organic Bagels

The Cinnamon Raisin Remix and Boomin’ Berry Bagels pair oh so well with this recipe. It’s important not to get too hung up on the numbers but here are a couple of reasons why I love to include Dave’s Killer Bread Organic Bagels in my diet.

  • With 11 to 12g of protein and 12 to 14g of whole grains, these bagels are baked to keep you fuller longer. Pair The Cinnamon Raisin Remix Bagel with a heaping 1/4 cup of my Honey Almond Cream Cheese and you are eating 18g of protein.
  • Pair that combo with a piece of fruit and you’ve got yourself a balanced breakfast or healthy lunch any dietitian would be proud of! Fruit adds additional fiber, vitamins, and minerals making it a smart addition to a balanced breakfast.

Healthy-Panera-Honey-Walnut-Cream-Cheese-Bagel-togo

More Healthy Recipes

Enjoy these other breakfast recipes that are vibrant, nutritious, and tasty.

Healthy-Panera-Honey-Walnut-Cream-Cheese-Breakfast

Healthy Honey Almond Cream Cheese

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This Honey Almond Cream Cheese is sweet, creamy, and delicious. Compared to Panera's Honey Walnut Cream Cheese, this recipe is a awesome alternative because it contains higher levels of protein and lower amounts of both fat and sugar. Enjoy your homemade "cream" cheese on bagels, toast, or as a dip for fruit.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 124 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Food Processor or blender
  • 1 set of measuring cups

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz cottage cheese I prefer 4% milk fat
  • 1/2 cup toasted and chopped almonds
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/8 tsp kosher salt

Instructions
 

  • In a food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth.
  • Add the chopped walnuts, honey, vanilla, and salt to the food processor. Blend well.
  • Taste the mixture and adjust the honey to your liking.
  • Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • Enjoy your homemade honey walnut "cream" cheese on bagels, toast, or as a dip for fruit.

Notes

Pair this with a Dave's Killer Bread Organic Bagel and a piece of fruit for a balanced breakfast!

Nutrition

Calories: 124kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 6gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 6mgSodium: 168mgPotassium: 87mgFiber: 1gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 55IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 41mgIron: 0.3mg
Keyword breakfast, cheese, vegetarian
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
The Best Habanero Peach Salsa Recipe

The Best Habanero Peach Salsa Recipe

Habanero Peach Salsa Recipe

I love to make Habanero Peach Salsa Recipes in the summertime when peaches are in season and the produce is abundant!

 

The spicy-sweet blend of ingredients is so delicious spooned over tacos or served alongside tortilla chips.

 

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you.

 

Peach Salsa Close Up with Chips in the Background

Ingredients for Habanero Peach Salsa Recipe

 

Below are the ingredients for this fruity salsa! 

  • Peach: For the ultimate peachy flavor, I believe nothing beats locally sourced, fresh peaches, if available in your area. You could also use canned peaches in this recipe! 

Peaches canned locally or store-bought are both fine, but I like using fresh! 

Keep the skin on, the colors are so beautiful!

  • Tomato –  I used tomatoes I grew in my backyard. If you see yellow tomatoes at the farmers market those would look beautiful in this dish.
  • Minced Habanero – For a spicier salsa, use more, for a milder salsa use less. 

I recommend starting with a small amount of minced habaneros and adding more from there based on your flavor preferences for the right amount of heat. 

A little goes a long way with habaneros bold spicy flavor. 

  • Fresh Cilantro – If you dislike cilantro, I recommend fresh Italian parsley. 
  • Fresh Lime Juice – In a pinch, lemon juice or white vinegar could also work.
  • Onion – I love to use white onion in this dish but red, sweet, or yellow onions work well too

Optional Ingredients for Habanero Peach Salsa Recipe

Lime Zest – You already got those limes, this adds more lime flavor!

Mintused orange mint in this recipe!

Red Bell Pepper – for bright red contrasting colors!

How to Make Habanero Peach Salsa Recipe (3 ways!)

There are several ways in which you can make peach salsa. Here are a few ways you can go about this salsa creation.

  1. Choose to do it the way I did and, roughly dice and/or mince the ingredients and add them to a food processor. I pulsed about 10 times and was careful not to over-pulse.
  2. Another method is dicing or mincing all by hand. Choose your desired size and keep each ingredient small and uniform. I prefer this method for chunky salsa. 
  3. The third option is to use a salsa-making gadget! I’ve seen these sold online at various stores. Some are crank food processors while others are hand chopping gizmos. 

Habanero Peach Salsa in a black bowl with tortilla chips to the right. Stacked on a wooden platter.

 Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

There are many reasons you will love this recipe. Some of these include:

Lots of Veggies

I love that this recipe involves so many different vegetables. It is fresh, nutritious, and delish!

In Season Produce

Indulge in this recipe when peach season hits its peak, and the local farmers’ market bursts with juicy peaches!

Summertime is the time when habanero peppers and sweet peaches are in season. Pick up some other yummy fresh flavors from your market, such as red onion, herbs (fresh cilantro!), and red bell peppers. These farm-fresh ingredients make the perfect combination for a farm-fresh salsa. 

Versatility

Adjust the ingredients or level of heat easily! You can use less habanero or omit the spicy flavors of habanero and include jalapenos for a milder version of this homemade salsa recipe. 

​Turn this into a mango salsa by swapping the peaches for mangos or make a Peach Mango Habanero Salsa by doing half mango half peach!

How To Use This Recipe in Cooking

This salsa recipe has so many applications in all sorts of dishes! Some of my favorite ways to use this homemade salsa include:

  • Chips and salsa – a classic. Get super fancy and make homemade tortilla chips or use my favorite –  Juanita’s Tortilla Chips.
  • Spooned over fish tacos
  • Served with some breakfast burritos. 
  • A topper for big summer salads
  • Mixed into a grain bowl

Tips for Cooking with Hot peppers for Your Habanero Peach Salsa Recipes

Below are a few tips for cooking with hot peppers.

Handle with Care: I highly recommend using disposable gloves when handling habanero peppersThe oils on peppers can irritate your skin and eyes. So also, avoid touching your eyes. 

Controlling and Adjusting Heat: For adjusting the heat in salsa, remove the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat. Additionally, start small and taste as you go. 

Balance: Hot peppers can overwhelm other flavors in a dish. Balance the heat by adding acidic and sweet flavors.

Habanero Peach Salsa in a black bowl with tortilla chips to the right. Stacked on a wooden platter.

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The Best Sweet Soy Glaze Recipe (Inspired by Kecap Manis)

Habanero Peach Salsa in a black bowl with tortilla chips to the right. Stacked on a wooden platter.

Habanero Peach Salsa

This Habanero Peach Salsa is sweet with a little heat!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 47 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 peaches, chopped
  • 2 large tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 habanero, minced seeds and ribs removed
  • ½ white onion, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced and zested
  • cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tbsp mint, chopped optional
  • ¼ tsp kosher salt or more to taste
  • tsp crushed black pepper or more to taste

Instructions
 

  • In a food processor, add all ingredients.
  • Pulse 5 times, then using a rubber spatula scrape down the sides, and pulse again 5 times.
  • Serve with chips, tacos, fajitas, over a salad, the possibilities are endless!

Notes

This recipe is vegan and  vegetarian as well as gluten, dairy, egg, and nut free!
 
Tomatoes, I recommend if you are using small tomatoes to add about 2 cups worth. 

Nutrition

Calories: 47kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 2gFat: 0.3gSaturated Fat: 0.04gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 342mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 443IUVitamin C: 22mgCalcium: 47mgIron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
The Best Sweet Soy Glaze Recipe (Inspired by Kecap Manis)

The Best Sweet Soy Glaze Recipe (Inspired by Kecap Manis)

Garlicy Sweet Soy Glaze (Inspired by Kecap Manis)

Discover the simplicity of this flavorful Sweet Soy Glaze, boasting a lovely fusion of garlic, ginger, and a balance of sweet and salty notes.

Inspired by Kecap Manis and Hello Fresh Sweet Soy Glaze, make this recipe at home and embrace the versatility with both vegan and non-vegan renditions. Choose between non-spicy and spicy variations to elevate your culinary creations with this delectable glaze.

Top down of Garlic Sweet Soy Glaze with a spoon and Chinese Garlic Leeks to the left side.

 

Why I Made This Recipe

The best part about this recipe is that it is super simple to make!

Moreover, sauces like this one hold the power to elevate the most underrated dishes into a masterpiece. I use this recipe over raw cucumbers, fluffy rice, and with a tasty chicken dinner. The savory flavors of this tasty sauce elevate many dishes.

This Sweet Soy Glaze is heavily inspired by a delicious Indonesian sauce, called Kecap Manis. Kecap Manis is a sweet, dark, and molasses-like sauce often used in Indonesian dishes like roasted chicken, grilled fish, and fried tofu.

Interested in more Indonesian recipes? I recommend exploring Marvella’s food blog What to Cook Today. This blog has an array of vegan, vegetarian, and flexitarian recipes. Marvellina previously worked as a Registered Dietitian and was born in Indonesia. She has many Indonesian recipes including a Easy Homemade Kecap Manis recipe!

 

image of sweet soy glaze with spoon and text overlay of the list of ingredients in the sauce

 

Ingredients for Garlic Sweet Soy Glaze

  • Soy sauce
  • Honey or maple syrup (vegan) – you could also use white sugar.
  • Garlic
  • Fresh Ginger
  • Rice vinegar, white wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar – for that tangy flavor
  • Optional: chili flakes, sesame seeds, or even a bit of sesame oil. For a thinner sauce use a tbsp water one at a time until desired consistency is reached.

How to Make This Recipe

In a small saucepan, on medium-high heat, combine all of the ingredients. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally to bring all the ingredients together. Continue to cook on medium heat for 4-6 minutes.

Once the sauce is thickened, it is time to remove from the saucepan from the heat. Then let the glaze cool.

Serve this recipe as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, drizzled over grilled proteins such as pork tenderloin, ground beef, baked tofu, vegetables such as blanched green beans, or with stir fried bell pepper, or simply spooned over buttery rice garnished with scallion greens.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about a week.

 

Perspective shot with glazed cucumbers in the background and a bowl of Garlic Sweet Soy Glaze as the focus.

 

How to Use This Recipe

This recipe and its rich flavors can be used for more than a flavorful glaze. Moreover, is a great finisher to any recipe alone or along side a spicy sriracha mayo.

  • Drizzled over sushi or cucumber boats
  • Glaze for a delicious chicken dish
  • Spooned over top fragrant jasmine rice
  • Drizzled over grain bowls garnished with a lime wedge
  • Sauces for various stir-fried dishes
  • A sticky sauce for sautéed or baked veggies
  • Dipping sauce for salmon nuggets, egg rolls, dumplings, or fried wontons
  • Sauce for chicken wings or fried chicken

 

Top down of sliced cucumbers with a Garlic Sweet Soy Glaze Topping on a speckled plate. Cucumbers to the right as a prop and Chinese Garlic Leeks to the left with white flowers.

 

FAQ (ask a dietitian!)

Is hoisin sauce the same as sweet soy sauce?

Hoisin sauce and sweet soy sauce are not the same. Hoisin, commonly used in Cantonese cuisine, is a combination of soybeans, garlic, chili peppers, sugar, and various spices including Chinese five-spice powder.

Sweet Soy Sauce, also known as Kecap Manis, is popular in Indonesian cuisine. Kecap Manis is made from soy sauce and sugar.

What makes glaze thick?

There are several ways in which you can make glaze thick. Below are my 3 favorite ways to thicken a glaze.

  1. Reduction: Reduction is a culinary technique used to thicken and intensify the flavors of a liquid by simmering or boiling it, causing some of the water content to evaporate. This technique thickens and intensifies the flavors of a mixture such as soup, sauce, or glaze.
  2. Cornstarch or flour: Adding cornstarch or flour to a glaze thickens it. The starches absorb liquid and created a thicker consistency when heat is involved.
  3. Sugar: Sugar can thicken a glaze, like this Garlicy Sweet Soy Glaze. The sugar becomes more viscous and sticks as it cooks. You can use brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey.

 

Top down of a small bowl with sushi rice and a garlic sweet soy glaze drizzle.

 

Does sweet soy sauce have gluten?

Usually, Sweet Soy Sauce has gluten. Sweet soy sauce is made with soy sauce and regular soy sauce’s primary ingredient is wheat. However, you can make sweet soy sauce or this Garlicy Sweet Soy Glaze with Tamari or Gluten-free soy sauce.

Is there a sweet soy sauce substitute?

Other than making it yourself with either Marvella’s recipe or my Garlicy Sweet Soy Glaze recipe, there are several possible substitutes you may use depending on the recipe or dish.

  • Hoisin Sauce – A thick fragrant sauce often used in Cantonese cuisine.
  • Oyster Sauce – A viscous dark condiment made from oyster extracts. Oyster sauce is commonly used in Chinese, Thai, Malay, and Vietnamese culinary traditions.
  • Tianmian Sauce – A sweet sauce made from wheat, beans, and sugar often used in Northern and Northeastern Chinese cooking.

 

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A glass of Cilantro Cashew Dressing with a bit of the dressing spilled off the side.

 

 

 

 

Dehydrated Cucumber Recipe [Cucumber Chips!]

A plate of dehydrate cucumbers (cucumber chips) surround with a linin napkin, a bowl of ranch, and some green edible prop to the side. The plate is sitting on top of a two toned board.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Top down of Garlic Sweet Soy Glaze with spoon to the right side of the bowl. The back of the spoon is coated with the thick deep brown glaze.

Garlic Sweet Soy Glaze

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This Garlicy Sweet Soy Glaze is thick with sweet and salty notes. Enjoy this glaze drizzled over grilled fish, baked tofu, or various vegetables.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 serving
Calories 58 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 small sauce pan

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup soy sauce
  • ¼ cup honey option to use maple syrup, brown sugar, or coconut sugar
  • 3 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp minced ginger
  • 1 tsp red chili flakes optional
  • 1 tsp cornstarch see recipe notes

Instructions
 

  • In a small saucepan, combine all of the ingredients. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally to bring all the ingredients together. Continue to cook on medium heat for 4-6 minutes. 
  • Once the sauce is thickened, it is time to remove from the saucepan from the heat. Then let the glaze cool.
  • Serve this recipe over grilled meat, baked tofu, or vegetables. 
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about a week. 

Notes

I use 1 tsp cornstarch to thicken this glaze. Option to continue to add cornstarch 1/2 tsp at a time and whisk until desired consistency is reached.
If glaze becomes too thick, add 1 tsp of water and whisk until desired consistency is reached. 

Nutrition

Calories: 58kcalCarbohydrates: 13gProtein: 2gFat: 0.1gSaturated Fat: 0.01gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.04gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.01gSodium: 1086mgPotassium: 62mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 99IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 9mgIron: 1mg
Keyword 5-ingredient, sauce
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!