Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

The Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer. Packed with juicy cherries, sweet blueberries, crunchy pecans, and savory turkey bacon, this salad is perfect for any outdoor gathering or a light lunch. The tangy balsamic vinaigrette ties all the flavors together, making it a delightful addition to your summer menu.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad takes only 15 minutes to prepare, making it a great option for busy days.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh fruits and savory ingredients creates a deliciously unique taste.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for barbecues or as a main course for a light meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from kale and fruits, this salad is both healthy and satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• Medium sauté pan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl: This is crucial for tossing all your ingredients together without making a mess.
• Medium sauté pan: Needed to cook the turkey bacon to crispy perfection.
• Whisk: Helps emulsify the dressing so that all flavors blend beautifully.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping fruits and vegetables efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 6 cups kale leaves, massaged
• 6 strips 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 Dressing

• 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: Massage the Kale

Start by tearing the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, massage the torn kale with a bit of sea salt until it softens. This process enhances its flavor and texture.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a medium sauté pan over medium-high heat, add the diced turkey bacon. Cook for about 5 minutes or until crispy. Remove from heat and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, dried basil, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well emulsified.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In the large bowl with the massaged kale, add in the cooked turkey bacon, halved cherries, blueberries, crumbled feta cheese, diced apple, and pecan pieces. Toss gently to combine everything evenly.

Step 5: Serve

You can either serve the dressing on the side or toss it into the salad just before serving for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your vibrant Cherry Summer Kale Salad!

How to Serve Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your meal. Whether you are hosting a summer gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these serving suggestions will surely impress your guests.

As a Main Course

• A generous helping of this salad makes for a satisfying main dish. Pair it with grilled chicken or turkey for extra protein.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled meats or fish. The sweet and tangy flavors complement savory dishes beautifully.

In a Wrap

• Use the salad as a filling for wraps. Add some lettuce and your favorite protein for a delicious, portable meal.

On Toast

• Top whole-grain toast with the salad for a fresh, crunchy brunch option. This adds both texture and flavor to your toast.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare individual portions in mason jars. Layer the ingredients starting with the dressing on the bottom to keep everything fresh until you’re ready to eat.

How to Perfect Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Perfecting your Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette involves attention to detail and fresh ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your salad:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh kale and ripe cherries. Fresh produce enhances flavor and nutritional value.
• Massage Your Kale: Massaging kale helps break down its fibrous texture, making it more tender and enjoyable.
• Customize Your Fruit: Feel free to replace or add other fruits like strawberries or peaches depending on what’s in season.
• Make It Ahead: Prepare the salad in advance but keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with Nuts: Try different nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch and variety in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Pairing side dishes with your Cherry Summer Kale Salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that work well together:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Tender marinated chicken skewers provide protein that complements the freshness of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa pilaf adds grainy texture while remaining healthy and flavorful.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and depth, balancing the crispness of the salad.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or quinoa offer a hearty yet healthy side.
5. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn adds sweetness and a touch of charred flavor that pairs nicely.
6. Cucumber Feta Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad enhances the meal’s lightness while providing contrasting flavors.
7. Hummus Platter – Serve assorted hummus varieties with pita chips and veggies for a fun appetizer before enjoying the salad.
8. Sliced Avocado Toast – Creamy avocado toast brings richness that complements the tangy vinaigrette perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not massaging the kale: Skipping this step can result in tough leaves. Always massage the kale to make it tender and more enjoyable to eat.
• Using overripe cherries: Choosing cherries that are too ripe can make your salad soggy. Select firm, juicy cherries for the best texture.
• Skipping the dressing prep: A common mistake is not emulsifying the dressing properly. Whisk thoroughly to combine oil and vinegar for a balanced flavor.
• Adding too much salt: It’s easy to over-season. Start with a little salt, taste, and adjust as needed to avoid overpowering your salad.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Not adding nuts or seeds can make your salad lack crunch. Consider toppings like pecan pieces for added texture.
• Serving immediately after dressing: Tossing the salad too early can lead to wilting. Dress it just before serving for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2-3 days for maximum freshness.

Freezing Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in kale and fresh fruits.
• If you must freeze, keep the dressing separate and consume within a month.

Reheating Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread salad on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short increments (30 seconds) until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other greens instead of kale?

Yes! You can substitute arugula or spinach if you prefer a milder flavor.

What can I add for protein?

Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein in your Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette.

How long does this salad stay fresh?

This salad is best enjoyed within 2-3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other fruits like strawberries or different nuts based on your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad works great for meal prep as long as you store it properly and dress it just before eating.

Final Thoughts

The Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can customize it with different fruits or nuts to suit your taste. Perfect for summer gatherings, this salad will impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to try it out today!