This refreshing summer salad features juicy peaches, sweet blueberries, and crisp kale. It’s colorful, healthy, and perfect for those warm sunny days!
Honestly, who knew salad could taste so good? I love adding a drizzle of honey on top for a little extra sweetness. Your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kale: Kale is the base of this salad. I recommend using curly kale for its texture, but you can also swap it for Lacinato (dinosaur) kale if you prefer a milder flavor. If you’re not a fan of kale, spinach works too!
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches offer a sweet touch. Nectarines are a great substitute if you’re looking for something similar without the fuzz. Canned peaches can also work, just drain and rinse them well.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are my pick, but if you can’t find them, consider using raspberries or diced strawberries. Frozen berries can be a backup—they’ll thaw slightly as you prepare the salad!
Candied Pecans: Candied pecans add sweetness and crunch. You can replace them with honey-roasted almonds or walnuts if that’s what you have on hand. For a healthier option, try plain toasted nuts.
Goat Cheese: Goat cheese gives a tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan, feel free to use feta or even shaved Parmesan for a different taste.
How Do You Make Kale Less Bitter?
Massaging kale is a game-changer! When you drizzle olive oil over the kale and gently rub it between your fingers for a few minutes, it breaks down the tough fibers. This process softens the leaves and reduces the bitterness, making the salad much more enjoyable.
- Start with clean, chopped kale in a large bowl.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt.
- Massage the leaves for 2-3 minutes until they soften and darken in color.
This technique transforms the kale, allowing it to blend beautifully with the sweet fruits and creamy cheese in this salad!
Easy Summer Peach Blueberry Kale Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 cups kale, chopped and tough stems removed
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup candied pecans
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a busy summer day or a last-minute gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Kale:
Start by washing the kale thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Then, remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped kale in a large salad bowl, ready to be transformed!
2. Massaging the Kale:
To make the kale tender and flavorful, drizzle the olive oil over the leaves. Now it’s time for some hands-on work! Gently massage the kale with your fingers for about 2-3 minutes. This process softens the leaves, reduces bitterness, and makes them much more delicious!
3. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Taste your dressing and adjust the seasoning if you’d like it sweeter or tangier—it’s all about what you enjoy!
4. Adding the Fruits:
Next, add the sliced peaches and fresh blueberries to the kale in the salad bowl. These juicy fruits will bring a burst of sweetness to every bite! Toss everything gently to combine the ingredients.
5. Drizzling the Dressing:
Pour your homemade dressing over the salad, ensuring all the ingredients get a little love. Toss it again to evenly coat everything—this is where the real flavor magic happens!
6. Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the candied pecans and crumbled goat cheese on top. These will add a delicious crunch and a creamy element to your salad.
7. Serve or Chill:
Enjoy your salad immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for a little while to meld the flavors together. Either way, it’s bound to be a hit!
Enjoy this vibrant, healthy salad that blends the sweetness of peaches and blueberries with the earthy crunch of kale and pecans! Perfect for summer gatherings or a nutritious meal at home! 🌞
FAQ for Easy Summer Peach Blueberry Kale Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Greens?
Absolutely! While kale provides nice texture and health benefits, you can substitute it with spinach, arugula, or even mixed salad greens if you prefer a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that tender greens won’t require massaging!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, swap the goat cheese for a plant-based cheese or leave it out entirely. You can also replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a sweet dressing that fits a vegan diet.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the kale and dressing a day in advance. However, it’s best to add the peaches, blueberries, pecans, and cheese right before serving to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess.
What’s the Best Way to 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 soften further, but it will still taste great! Just give it a good toss before serving again.
