This bright and refreshing salad is perfect for hot days! With sweet peaches, juicy blueberries, and crunchy kale, it’s a colorful treat you can enjoy anytime.
I love how the fruit pairs with the kale—it’s like a summer party in a bowl! Toss on some nuts for a nice crunch. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 🥗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kale: Choose sturdy varieties like Lacinato or curly kale. If you’re not a fan of kale, spinach or arugula make great alternatives, adding a different but tasty flavor.
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches bring sweetness. If they’re out of season, try nectarines or even canned peaches (in juice, not syrup) for similar flavor.
Blueberries: Fresh is best, but if they’re not available, frozen blueberries work well. Just make sure they’re thawed and drained before adding.
Pecans: While pecans add a nice crunch, walnuts or almonds can be good substitutes. For a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are great alternatives.
Goat Cheese: If you’re not keen on goat cheese, try feta or a creamy avocado to keep that rich taste.
How Do I Make Kale Less Tough and Chewy?
Massaging the kale is key to making it tender and enjoyable! Here’s how to do it:
- After washing and chopping the kale, add your dressing directly to it.
- With clean hands, gently rub the kale leaves for 2-3 minutes. This helps break down the tough fibers.
- You’ll notice the kale will darken in color and become softer, making it much more palatable!
Take your time during this step—it’s worth the effort for a better salad experience!
Easy Summer Peach and Blueberry Kale Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Base:
- 4 cups kale, washed and chopped (remove stems)
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
Toppings:
- 1/2 cup pecans (preferably toasted or candied for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy choice for a summer meal. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at your next barbecue!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kale:
Start by washing the kale thoroughly under running water. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped kale in a large salad bowl. This is the base for your delicious salad!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This will create a sweet and tangy dressing that complements the fruits beautifully.
3. Massage the Kale:
Pour the dressing over the kale in the salad bowl. With clean hands, gently massage the kale leaves for about 2 to 3 minutes. This really helps to soften the kale and lets it absorb the delicious dressing!
4. Add the Fresh Fruits:
Next, add the sliced peaches and fresh blueberries right into the bowl. The sweetness of the fruit will mix beautifully with the savory kale.
5. Top It Off:
Sprinkle the toasted or candied pecans over the salad for a wonderful crunch. Then, add the crumbled goat cheese evenly on top to enhance the flavor.
6. Toss and Serve:
Just before serving, gently toss the salad to combine all of the ingredients. This ensures that every bite is full of flavor!
7. Enjoy Your Salad!
Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste. It’s not just easy; it’s also a colorful and healthy dish that everyone will love!
FAQ for Easy Summer Peach and Blueberry Kale Salad
Can I Use Other Greens Instead of Kale?
Absolutely! If kale isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with spinach, arugula, or even mixed salad greens. Just adjust the massage time as softer greens don’t require it.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the kale may soften slightly, but it will still taste great! You might want to keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Peaches or Blueberries?
No worries! You can use other seasonal fruits like nectarines, berries, or even sliced apples. Just make sure whatever you use is ripe and juicy to maintain the salad’s freshness!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can wash and chop the kale and prepare the dressing ahead of time. Just mix everything together right before serving to keep the salad crisp and fresh.
