This bright and fresh salad is a perfect summer side! With juicy peaches, sweet blueberries, and crunchy kale, it’s a burst of flavors in every bite.
Honestly, who knew healthy eating could taste this good? I love pairing it with grilled chicken for a filling meal—easy, colorful, and oh so tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kale: Kale is the base of this salad, providing a crunchy texture. I recommend using Lacinato kale for its milder flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute with spinach or arugula for a different twist.
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are key for sweetness. If they’re out of season, nectarines or plums work well too. Canned peaches can also be a quick alternative, just make sure to drain them well.
Blueberries: These juicy berries add a nice burst of sweetness. If blueberries are not available, consider using raspberries or blackberries for a change in flavor.
Pumpkin Seeds: These add crunch and nutty flavor. You can swap them for sunflower seeds or chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts if you have any allergies or preferences.
Honey or Maple Syrup: This sweetener helps bring the flavors together. If you’re vegan, maple syrup is a great option. Agave nectar is another alternative that works well.
How Do You Properly Massage Kale?
Massaging kale is an essential step that helps soften the leaves and makes them more enjoyable to eat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Place the chopped kale in a large bowl.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
- Using your hands, gently squeeze and rub the leaves for about 2-3 minutes.
- You’ll notice the kale will darken in color and soften—this is what you want!
Don’t rush this step; it makes a big difference in the final dish!
Easy Summer Peach and Blueberry Kale Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups kale leaves, washed, stems removed, chopped
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is super quick to make! You’ll need about 10 minutes of prep time. It’s perfect for a last-minute side dish or a light meal that showcases fresh summer flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kale:
Start by placing the chopped kale in a large salad bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Now, get in there and massage the kale with your hands for about 2-3 minutes. This softens the leaves and brings out their flavor. You’ll notice the color turning a deeper green as you go!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. This dressing is simple but delicious, bringing a zesty touch to the salad.
3. Mix in the Fruits and Seeds:
Once your kale is ready, it’s time to add in the fun stuff! Toss in the chopped peaches, fresh blueberries, and pumpkin seeds. These add sweetness and crunch, making every bite delightful.
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the salad, and gently toss everything together. This ensures that all those amazing flavors mix well. You want each piece of kale coated in that yummy dressing!
5. Let It Rest:
Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief wait allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Summer Peach and Blueberry Kale Salad is now ready to be served! It makes a refreshing side dish or a light meal, especially on warm summer days. Enjoy the vibrant colors and delicious flavors!
FAQ for Easy Summer Peach and Blueberry Kale Salad
Can I Use Other Greens Besides Kale?
Absolutely! While kale is packed with nutrients, you can substitute it with other greens like spinach, arugula, or mixed salad greens. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will change a bit, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the kale will continue to soften as it sits, but it should still taste great. If you want to keep the salad crisp, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving.
Can This Salad Be Made In Advance?
You can prepare the salad components (kale, peaches, blueberries, and pumpkin seeds) ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing closer to serving time. If you dress it too early, the kale might become soggy. Just give it a toss together right before you enjoy it!
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
This salad is versatile! Feel free to get creative with your fruit. Strawberries, raspberries, or even diced apples or pears would work well. Just make sure the fruits are fresh and in season for the best flavor!
