Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

This Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. With fresh cherries and blueberries, this salad offers a refreshing taste for summer picnics, barbecues, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. Its vibrant colors and textures make it not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a quick option for busy days.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with kale, fruits, and healthy fats from pecans and olive oil, it’s as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, this salad suits various dietary preferences.
• Flavorful Dressing: The homemade balsamic vinaigrette adds a tangy kick that elevates the entire dish.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using seasonal produce ensures maximum flavor and freshness in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium sauté pan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients without the risk of spills.
• Medium sauté pan: Perfect for cooking Turkey turkey bacon to achieve that crispy texture.
• Whisk: Ensures the balsamic vinaigrette emulsifies properly for an even flavor throughout the salad.

Ingredients

For the Salad Base

• 6 cups kale leaves, massaged
• 6 strips Turkey turkey bacon, diced
• 1 cup cherries, halved (seeds removed)
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup diced granny smith apple
• 1/4 cup pecan pieces

For the Balsamic Vinaigrette

• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 1/2 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• Salt & pepper to season

How to Make Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Step 1: Prepare the Kale

Massage torn kale leaves with a bit of sea salt until they soften. This helps break down the fibers and makes the kale more palatable.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Heat a medium sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add diced Turkey turkey bacon and cook for about 5 minutes until crispy. Remove from heat and place on a paper towel to let grease drain.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine dijon mustard, honey, dried basil, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and emulsified.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, add massaged kale leaves, crispy Turkey turkey bacon, cherries, blueberries, crumbled feta cheese, diced granny smith apple, and pecan pieces. Toss gently to mix everything evenly.

Step 5: Serve

You can serve your dressing on the side or toss it into the salad just before serving for maximum freshness. Enjoy your flavorful Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette!

How to Serve Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

This Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a vibrant dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether it’s a light lunch or a side at your next gathering, consider these serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

As a Standalone Meal

• Fresh and filling – Serve the salad on its own for a nutritious meal packed with vitamins and flavors.
• Add protein – Include grilled chicken or turkey for an extra boost of protein.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Flavorful complement – Pair the salad with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a smoky flavor contrast.

Accompanying Sandwiches

• Perfect pairing – Serve alongside turkey or veggie sandwiches for a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for summer picnics.

On a Buffet Table

• Crowd-pleaser – This salad makes an excellent addition to any buffet spread, appealing to both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

With Fresh Bread

• Light and airy – Offer slices of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for a satisfying crunch.

How to Perfect Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

To make your Cherry Summer Kale Salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavors and texture of this delightful dish.

• Massage the kale – Gently massaging the kale leaves before serving helps to soften them, making them more palatable.
• Use fresh ingredients – Selecting ripe cherries and sweet blueberries will significantly enhance the overall flavor of the salad.
• Adjust dressing proportions – Feel free to tweak the balsamic vinaigrette ingredients based on your taste preferences; add more honey for sweetness or mustard for tanginess.
• Serve chilled – Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator before serving brings out all the flavors beautifully.
• Add seasonal fruits – Incorporate other seasonal fruits like peaches or strawberries for variety and added freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

This refreshing salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken skewers provide a juicy protein option that balances well with the salad’s freshness.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness creates a delightful contrast when served alongside the tangy salad.
3. Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa dish mixed with herbs adds texture and nutrition without overpowering the main flavors.
4. Veggie Spring Rolls – Fresh spring rolls filled with crisp vegetables offer a crunchy side that enhances your meal’s presentation.
5. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with olive oil brings a sweet smokiness that pairs beautifully with the salad.
6. Hummus and Pita Chips – Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips provides an easy, shareable snack that’s perfect for gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette can be easy if you steer clear of common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the kale preparation: Failing to massage the kale leaves can result in a tough and bitter texture. Always take a moment to massage the leaves with a bit of salt for better flavor and tenderness.

• Overcooking the turkey bacon: Cooking turkey bacon too long can make it overly crispy or burnt. Aim for a nice crispy texture but remove it from heat as soon as it turns golden brown.

• Not balancing flavors: Skipping on seasoning can leave your salad bland. Ensure you taste your dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust the salt, pepper, or acidity as needed.

• Using unripe fruit: Using cherries or apples that aren’t ripe can affect the overall taste. Choose fresh, ripe fruits for the best sweetness and flavor contrast in your salad.

• Dressing too early: Adding dressing too soon can make kale soggy. Instead, dress your salad just before serving or offer the dressing on the side for guests to add themselves.

• Neglecting storage tips: Not storing leftovers properly can lead to wilting. Keep any uneaten salad in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Freezing is not recommended because fresh ingredients may lose texture and flavor.
• If necessary, freeze components separately (like cooked turkey bacon).

Reheating Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between until just warmed.
• Stovetop: Use medium heat in a pan and stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette.

What makes Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette special?

This salad combines sweet cherries, blueberries, and crispy turkey bacon, creating a refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings.

Can I customize my Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different fruits or nuts based on your preference or availability. You could also swap feta cheese for goat cheese for a different flavor.

How should I store leftover Cherry Summer Kale Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep dressing separate until serving.

Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?

Yes! You can omit the turkey bacon and substitute it with roasted chickpeas or toasted seeds for added protein without meat.

Final Thoughts

The Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer. Its balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it versatile enough for backyard barbecues or light lunches. Experiment with different fruits or nuts based on what you have on hand, and enjoy this refreshing recipe!

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Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. Bursting with flavors from ripe cherries, blueberries, and crispy turkey bacon, this salad is not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients. It makes a wonderful addition to any summer picnic or barbecue, showcasing seasonal produce in an easy-to-make recipe. The homemade balsamic vinaigrette adds a tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the fruits, creating a delightful balance that your guests will love. Whether served as a light main course or a colorful side dish, this salad promises to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 cups kale leaves
• 1 cup cherries (halved)
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 6 strips turkey bacon (diced)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup pecan pieces
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 1/2 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• Salt & pepper to season

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Instructions

1. Massage the kale leaves with sea salt until softened.
2. In a medium sauté pan over medium-high heat, cook diced turkey bacon for about 5 minutes until crispy.
3. For the dressing, whisk together dijon mustard, honey, dried basil, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
4. In a large bowl, combine massaged kale leaves, crispy turkey bacon, cherries, blueberries, crumbled feta cheese, and pecans; toss gently to mix.
5. Serve immediately with dressing on the side or tossed in for freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 20mg