summer kale salad recipe
The Best summer kale salad recipe
I love summer kale salad recipes because they’re a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the season. This recipe is a staple in my household, and my family and I just can’t get enough of it. The combination of tender kale, sweet cherries, and crunchy almonds is a match made in heaven. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and is easy to make ahead of time for a quick and healthy meal.
I’ve served this salad at countless family gatherings and potlucks, and it’s always been a hit. The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, so feel free to get creative and make it your own! I first discovered this recipe on a warm summer evening when I was searching for a light and refreshing side dish to serve alongside our barbecue.
The original recipe called for a mix of greens, but I knew I wanted to use kale as the base. I added some juicy cherries for natural sweetness and toasted almonds for crunch. The result was nothing short of magical – the tangy dressing brought out the flavors of the kale, while the cherries added a pop of color and flavor. It was love at first bite!
As I began experimenting with this recipe, I realized that it’s not just a side dish, but rather a complete meal in itself. With the addition of protein-rich chicken or tofu, this salad becomes a satisfying and filling option for any occasion. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep – simply assemble the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability.
Feel free to swap out the cherries for diced apples or substitute the almonds with pumpkin seeds. You can also add some crumbled feta or goat cheese for an extra burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Summer Kale Salad with Grilled Vegetables and Lemon Tahini Dressing
A refreshing summer salad featuring grilled vegetables, massaged kale, and a tangy lemon tahini dressing. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner and can be served chilled or at room temperature.
🥘Ingredients
For the Salad
For the Lemon Tahini Dressing
For Grilling
👨🍳Directions
Set aside.
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
This summer kale salad recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply need a quick lunch option. The best part?
It’s incredibly versatile – feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and make it your own! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for later use.
Reheat by tossing with your favorite dressing or serving chilled straight from the refrigerator.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Kale Salad with Grilled Vegetables and Lemon Tahini Dressing
Q: What type of kale should I use?
For this recipe, I recommend using curly-leaf kale or lacinato (also known as dinosaur kale). Both varieties have a slightly sweeter flavor than other types of kale.
Q: Can I use other types of greens instead of kale?
While you can substitute other greens like spinach or arugula, keep in mind that they may change the overall flavor profile of your salad.
Q: How do I toast almonds?
To toast almonds, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the almonds on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through until fragrant.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Simply assemble all the ingredients except for the dressing in advance, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh cherries? Can I use dried cherries instead?
You can definitely use dried cherries as a substitute – just be aware that they’ll add more sweetness to your salad.