Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

This Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans is the perfect dish for warm days. Bursting with fresh flavors, it combines tender kale, juicy peaches, and crunchy candied pecans to create a delightful salad that’s great for picnics, barbecues, or light lunches. The creamy goat cheese adds a rich touch, making this salad not only refreshing but also satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with seasonal peaches and blueberries, this salad highlights the best summer produce.
• Health Boost: Kale is a nutrient powerhouse packed with vitamins and minerals, perfect for a healthy meal.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or add protein for a complete meal—it’s adaptable to your taste!
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sweet and savory will impress your guests at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will simplify your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Large bowl
• Fork
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures even heating while cooking the candied pecans without sticking.
• Large bowl: Necessary for mixing the dressing and tossing the kale thoroughly.
• Fork: Ideal for whisking together dressing ingredients effortlessly.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple juice vinegar or white balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon stone ground mustard
• Freshly ground black pepper

For the Salad

• 5 cups lightly packed torn kale leaves (center stems removed)
• 1 ripe peach, sliced
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 2 ounces cVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)bled chèvre

For the Candied Pecans

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3/4 cup pecan halves
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• 1/8 teaspoon bittersweet smoked paprika

How to Make Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Candied Pecans

1. Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the pecan halves, maple syrup, smoked paprika, and a couple of pinches of sea salt.
3. Cook while stirring constantly until pecans are coated in a sticky glaze; no liquid should remain in the pan (about 8 minutes).
4. Transfer pecans to a parchment-lined plate to cool in a single layer.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

1. In a large bowl, combine all dressing ingredients using a fork until well mixed.

Step 3: Massage the Kale

1. Add torn kale leaves to the bowl with dressing.
2. Toss to coat each leaf well.
3. Massage by hand until reduced in volume and darker green (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. Transfer the dressed kale to a platter or divide among individual plates.
2. Top with peach slices, blueberries, crumbled goat cheese, and cooled candied pecans.

Now you have an exquisite Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

This vibrant Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some creative ways to serve this refreshing salad.

As a Light Lunch

• Pair it with whole-grain bread or a light wrap for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for warm weather.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish to complement the smoky flavors of your main course.

At a Potluck

• Bring this salad to gatherings; it’s sure to impress guests with its colorful presentation and unique flavor profile.

For Meal Prep

• Create individual servings in jars for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. Just keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small portions in elegant bowls before dinner to kick off any gathering on a fresh note.

How to Perfect Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

Making this Summer Kale Salad even better is easy with a few simple tips. Here’s how you can elevate your dish.

• Massage the kale: Gently massaging the kale leaves helps break down tough fibers, making them tender and more enjoyable to eat.
• Use ripe peaches: The sweetness of ripe peaches enhances the salad’s flavor, so choose fruit that yields slightly when pressed.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter taste, feel free to add more maple syrup when making the candied pecans.
• Make it colorful: Add other seasonal fruits like strawberries or nectarines for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

This delicious Summer Kale Salad pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its fresh flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Seasoned chicken skewers bring protein and flavor, making them a hearty pairing for the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish mixed with herbs and vegetables complements the salad without overwhelming its flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and texture, balancing the crispness of the kale salad beautifully.
4. Cucumber Tomato Salad: A refreshing cucumber-tomato mix adds crunch and brightness, enhancing the overall meal experience.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers provide substance while keeping the meal vibrant and nutritious.
6. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges: These sweet, crispy wedges offer a comforting side that pairs well with the salad’s freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans to a new level of deliciousness. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the Kale Preparation: Failing to massage the kale can result in a tough texture. Take a few minutes to massage the leaves; it makes them tender and flavorful.
• Overcooking the Pecans: Cooking candied pecans too long can lead to burnt flavors. Stay attentive while cooking, stirring constantly until they are perfectly glazed.
• Skipping the Dressing Mixing: Not mixing the dressing ingredients thoroughly may lead to uneven flavors. Use a whisk or fork to ensure everything is well combined before adding it to the salad.
• Using Unripe Peaches: Choosing hard peaches will result in a less sweet salad. Opt for ripe, juicy peaches for optimal flavor and sweetness.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season your salad can make it bland. Don’t hesitate to add freshly ground black pepper or salt according to your taste preferences.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for maximum freshness.

Freezing Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to its fresh ingredients.
• It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the candied pecans separately for later use.

Reheating Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 30 seconds at a time until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently heat in a pan over low heat, tossing occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans:

Can I use other fruits in this Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans?

You can definitely swap peaches with other fruits like nectarines or strawberries for a different flavor profile.

How do I make the candied pecans healthier?

You can reduce sugar by using less maple syrup or experimenting with stevia as an alternative sweetener.

What type of kale is best for this salad?

Lacinato kale is often preferred due to its tender texture, but any variety will work well!

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all components separately and assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans is not only refreshing but also versatile! You can easily customize it by adding grilled chicken or swapping out fruits based on what’s in season. Try this vibrant dish today, and enjoy all its delightful flavors!