Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

A Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings. Packed with vibrant flavors from fresh cherries and blueberries, this salad is not only visually appealing but also nutritious. Its combination of sweet and savory elements makes it a versatile option for picnics, backyard barbecues, or as a light meal. The addition of turkey bacon adds a satisfying crunch, while the creamy feta ties everything together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of cherries, blueberries, and turkey bacon creates a delightful taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from kale and fruits, this salad is good for your health.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: With a total time of just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy summer days.
• Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer or a side dish, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the salad in advance and toss it with dressing just before serving.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette, having the right tools can streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium sauté pan
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all your ingredients without making a mess.
• Medium sauté pan: Useful for cooking turkey bacon to achieve that crispy texture.
• Whisk: Essential for emulsifying the dressing so that all flavors blend well together.

Ingredients

For this delicious Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette, you will need the following 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: Prepare the Kale

Start by tearing the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces. Massage them gently with a bit of sea salt until they become tender and vibrant.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a medium sauté pan heated to medium-high, add the diced turkey bacon. Cook for about 5 minutes or until crispy. Once done, remove it from the pan and place it on paper towels to drain excess grease.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing

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

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the massaged kale leaves, crispy turkey bacon, halved cherries, blueberries, crumbled feta cheese, diced apples, and pecan pieces. Toss gently to mix everything evenly.

Step 5: Serve It Up

You can either serve the dressing on the side or toss it in at the last minute before serving to keep everything fresh. Enjoy your Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette!

How to Serve Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that can brighten up any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your salad experience.

As a Standalone Meal

• This salad is robust enough to serve as a main dish. The turkey bacon adds protein, making it satisfying for lunch or dinner.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken breast for an extra protein boost. The smoky flavor of the chicken complements the sweetness of the cherries perfectly.

On a Buffet Table

• Offer this vibrant salad on your summer buffet alongside other dishes. Its colorful presentation will attract guests and make it a hit at gatherings.

As a Side Dish

• Serve the salad alongside grilled vegetables or fish. The freshness of the kale and fruit balances beautifully with richer flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Accompany the salad with slices of crusty whole-grain bread. This adds texture and makes for a more filling meal option.

How to Perfect Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

For those looking to elevate their Cherry Summer Kale Salad, here are some essential tips.

• Massage the Kale: Gently massaging kale helps soften its leaves and enhances its flavor, making it more enjoyable to eat.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, seasonal cherries and blueberries for the best taste and nutritional value in your salad.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a perfectly seasoned dish.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator briefly before serving. This melds flavors together and gives it a refreshing feel.
• Customize Your Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds or walnuts for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Serve Immediately: For best texture, serve this salad right after tossing with dressing to avoid wilting of kale leaves.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Pairing side dishes with Cherry Summer Kale Salad can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers
   Colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and onions bring vibrant flavors that complement the sweet notes in your salad.

2. Quinoa Pilaf
   A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs offers a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the fruity elements of the salad.

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes works well against the tangy balsamic vinaigrette, creating a balanced plate.

4. Couscous Salad
   A fluffy couscous salad mixed with cherry tomatoes and herbs can provide an excellent textural contrast to your kale dish.

5. Caprese Skewers
   Fresh mozzarella balls, basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with olive oil make delightful bites that enhance any summer meal.

6. Hummus Platter
   A platter featuring various hummus flavors alongside pita chips and veggie sticks offers a healthy snacking option that pairs well.

7. Savory Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers stuffed with grains and vegetables add heartiness while maintaining freshness to balance out your meal.

8. Grilled Fish Tacos
   Lightly spiced grilled fish tacos served in corn tortillas offer a unique pairing that complements the freshness of your kale salad perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette even more delicious.

• Skipping the Kale Massage: Not massaging kale leaves can result in a tough texture. Take a moment to gently rub the leaves with salt to make them tender and flavorful.
• Overcooking the Turkey Bacon: Cooking Turkey Bacon too long can lead to a dry outcome. Aim for 5 minutes until crispy, then drain it properly on a paper towel.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or overripe fruits can affect the salad’s taste. Always select fresh cherries and blueberries for the best flavor and texture.
• Dressing Too Early: Adding dressing too soon can wilt the salad. Wait until just before serving to toss the salad with dressing for optimal freshness.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Skipping the seasoning adjustments may leave your salad bland. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed for balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture.

Freezing Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of kale and fruits after thawing.
• If necessary, consider freezing only the dressing separately.

Reheating Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short 30-second intervals to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Gently heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other fruits in Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette?

Yes, feel free to substitute seasonal fruits like peaches or strawberries for added variety.

How should I store leftover Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What can I use instead of Turkey Bacon?

You can replace Turkey Bacon with crumbled cooked chicken or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Cherry Summer Kale Salad?

Add nuts, seeds, or additional herbs to elevate flavor and texture. A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese also complements this dish well.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Summer Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is perfect for summer gatherings or as a healthy lunch option. Its combination of fresh fruits and crunchy nuts makes it both refreshing and satisfying. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the dressing to suit your taste!