This bright and healthy salad features juicy peaches, sweet blueberries, and crunchy kale, making it perfect for hot summer days. It’s a refreshing and colorful dish that feels like a bowl of sunshine!
I love how easy this salad is to whip up. Just toss everything together and enjoy the burst of flavors. It’s also a great way to sneak in those greens without any fuss—simply delightful!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kale: Use curly or Lacinato kale for this salad. If you’re not a fan, spinach or arugula can also work well. Just remember, kale is heartier, so it holds up better with the dressing.
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are key for sweetness and juiciness. If they’re out of season, nectarines or even canned peaches in juice (not syrup) can be a good substitute.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add a burst of flavor. If you can’t find them, use frozen ones; just thaw and drain them before adding to the salad. Raspberries or blackberries can also be yummy alternatives.
Pecans: These add a nice crunch! Walnuts or almonds work too. If you prefer, you could skip nuts entirely for a nut-free option or use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
Cheese: I love goat cheese for its tangy flavor. Feta is a great substitute, or you could use a dairy-free cheese alternative if needed.
How Do You Massage Kale Properly?
Massaging the kale is essential to soften its texture. This makes it more enjoyable to eat and helps it absorb the dressing better. Here are some easy steps:
- After rinsing and drying the kale, remove the tough stems and tear the leaves into smaller pieces.
- Drizzle olive oil and a pinch of salt over the kale. Use your hands to scrunch and squeeze the leaves gently.
- Keep massaging for about 2-3 minutes until the kale becomes darker and softer—this process reduces bitterness and enhances flavor.
This simple technique really elevates the salad, making the kale delicious and tender!
Fresh Summer Peach and Blueberry Kale Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups kale, chopped and tough stems removed
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, 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 salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Once you’ve chopped and mixed everything, you can serve it immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for up to 2 hours. Perfect for those summer days when you want something fresh and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Kale:
Start off by washing and thoroughly drying the kale. Remove those thick stems; we just want the tender leaves. Now, chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
2. Massaging the Kale:
Place the chopped kale in a large salad bowl. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the kale and add a pinch of salt. This is where the magic happens! Massage the kale gently with your hands for about 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice that it wilts down and darkens in color, making it much softer and tastier.
3. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and a dash of salt and pepper. This dressing is simple but packs a punch!
4. Assembling the Salad:
Add the sliced peaches, fresh blueberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled goat cheese on top of the massaged kale. It’s like a colorful summer party in your bowl!
5. Combining Everything:
Now, pour the dressing over the salad and toss it gently. Be careful not to bruise those lovely peaches—just enough to mix everything together.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your salad is ready to serve! Enjoy it immediately while everything is fresh, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours if you want the flavors to meld a bit. This salad makes a great light lunch or a fantastic side dish for grilled chicken or fish!
Enjoy your vibrant and refreshing summer salad!
Can I Use Different Greens Instead of Kale?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of kale, you can substitute it with spinach, arugula, or mixed salad greens. Just keep in mind that softer greens won’t need massaging and may prefer a lighter dressing.
How Can I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, it’s best to store them in an airtight container in the fridge. However, keep in mind that the kale may become soggy if dressed. If possible, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to keep everything fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply replace the honey with maple syrup and omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. The salad will still be delicious and satisfying!
What Can I Substitute for Pecans?
If you’re looking for alternatives to pecans, walnuts or sliced almonds work great! You can also use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option that still adds a nice crunch.
