This Fresh Summer Peach and Blueberry Kale Salad bursts with colors and flavors! Juicy peaches and sweet blueberries team up with crunchy kale for a tasty, healthy dish that’s perfect for warm days.
Just imagine enjoying this salad with a light dressing on a sunny afternoon. It’s not just good for you; it’s fun to munch on too! I like to add some nuts for crunch—what’s your favorite twist?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kale: Use fresh kale for the best texture and taste. If kale isn’t your favorite, try using spinach or mixed greens instead for a softer option. I often choose Lacinato kale for its milder flavor.
Peaches: Ripe peaches add sweetness to the salad, but feel free to swap them for nectarines if that’s what you have. I find that both fruits work beautifully with the other ingredients.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are ideal, but frozen works as well if you can’t find fresh. They might get a little mushy, yet still delicious when thawed. Raspberries could be a nice alternative for a different berry flavor.
Pecans: Pecans add crunch, but walnuts or almonds are perfect substitutes! I love using toasted nuts for an extra layer of flavor; just watch them closely to avoid burning.
Cheese: Goat cheese gives a tangy flavor, but feta is a great alternative if you prefer something a little firmer. I personally enjoy the creaminess of burrata for a different twist!
Dressing: The honey is a sweetener, but agave syrup or maple syrup are also good options. If you want a tangy kick without sweetness, try balsamic vinegar instead.
How Do You Massage the Kale for a Comfortable Bite?
Massaging kale is a crucial step to make it tender and enjoyable! This allows the kale to soak in flavors better and makes it easier to chew.
- After washing and chopping the kale, add olive oil to it in a large bowl.
- Using your hands, gently squeeze and rub the kale leaves for about 2-3 minutes.
- Keep going until the leaves turn bright green and feel softer. This change indicates that they are ready for the salad!
Don’t skip this step; it really transforms the texture of the salad!
Fresh Summer Peach and Blueberry Kale Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups kale, stems removed and leaves finely chopped
- 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup pecans (candied or toasted)
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes washing and chopping, then mixing up the dressing and assembling everything. Perfect for a quick summer meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kale:
Start by washing the kale leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt. Once clean, remove the tough stems by pulling the leaves away from the stems and discarding them. Chop the kale into fine pieces and place it in a large salad bowl.
2. Massage the Kale:
Drizzle olive oil over the chopped kale. Using your hands, gently massage the leaves for about 2-3 minutes. This step makes the kale tender and brings out its beautiful green color. Don’t skip this; it makes a big difference in taste and texture!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and pepper. This dressing is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the sliced peaches, fresh blueberries, and pecans to the bowl with the massaged kale. These ingredients will add a burst of flavor and color to your salad!
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together so that the dressing evenly coats all the ingredients. This will help blend all the fantastic flavors!
6. Add the Cheese:
Finally, sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese on top. This adds a lovely creaminess and complements the fruit beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Fresh Summer Peach and Blueberry Kale Salad immediately for the best flavor! Enjoy it as a light meal or a side dish at your next summer gathering!
Can I Use Other Greens Instead of Kale?
Absolutely! If kale isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with spinach, arugula, or mixed salad greens. Each option will give a slightly different flavor and texture to the salad, but they will all work wonderfully!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the kale may continue to soften, so it’s best to eat it fresh. You can enjoy it cold or quickly toss it in a pan for a warm salad!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the kale and dressing ahead of time! Just keep them separate until you’re ready to serve to keep the kale fresh and crisp. Mix everything together just before serving for the best taste.
What Can I Use Instead of Pecans?
If you don’t have pecans or prefer a different nut, walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds make great substitutes. Each will add its unique crunch and flavor, so feel free to use what you have on hand!
