Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

This Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans is a delightful dish that blends fresh flavors and textures for a vibrant summer experience. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch, this salad shines with the sweetness of ripe peaches and the crunch of candied pecans. The creamy goat cheese adds a rich touch, making it a standout option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of kale, peaches, and blueberries packs your plate with nutrients and flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of total time, this salad comes together quickly for those busy summer days.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or main dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served alone.
• Flavor Explosion: The sweet candied pecans and zesty dressing complement the earthy kale, creating a delicious balance.
• Perfectly Seasonal: Using summer fruits means you’re enjoying peak flavor while supporting local produce.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing the Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Fork
• Parchment paper
• Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing ingredients together without spilling.
• Skillet: Essential for making the candied pecans evenly coated and crispy.
• Fork: Useful for mixing the dressing thoroughly before adding it to the salad.

Ingredients

This refreshing berry peachy kale salad is packed with summer superfoods and topped with creamy goat cheese and crunchy candied pecans.

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sherry 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 crumbled 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

Step 1: Make the Candied Pecans

To make the candied pecans, heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
1. Add the pecan halves to the skillet.
2. Pour in the maple syrup and sprinkle in smoked paprika along with sea salt.
3. Cook while stirring constantly until no liquid remains in the pan, about 8 minutes.
4. Transfer to a parchment-lined plate to cool in a single layer.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine all dressing ingredients using a fork until well mixed.

Step 3: Massage the Kale

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

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

Transfer your dressed kale to a serving platter or individual plates:
1. Top it with slices of peach, blueberries, crumbled goat cheese, and finally sprinkle on your cooled candied pecans.

Enjoy this vibrant Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans as part of your summer meals!

How to Serve Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

Serving your Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans can elevate its appeal and flavor. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your salad experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve small portions of the salad as a refreshing starter for dinner parties or gatherings. The vibrant colors make it visually appealing.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken breast for a protein-rich meal. The smoky flavor complements the sweetness of the peaches perfectly.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Place the salad on a bed of fluffy quinoa for added texture and nutrients. This makes for a hearty, satisfying dish.

With Whole Grain Bread

• Serve alongside slices of whole grain bread to balance out the meal. The nutty flavor of the bread enhances the overall taste.

As a Picnic Delight

• Pack individual servings in jars for an easy picnic option. Layering ingredients keeps it fresh and attractive on-the-go.

How to Perfect Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

To make your Summer Kale Salad even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe peaches: Select peaches that are slightly soft to ensure sweetness and juiciness in every bite.
• Massage kale leaves: This technique helps break down tough fibers, making the leaves tender and easier to digest.
• Experiment with dressings: Feel free to try different dressings, like citrus vinaigrette, to suit your taste preferences.
• Add extra toppings: Consider adding other fruits like strawberries or nuts like walnuts for varied textures and flavors.
• Store leftovers correctly: Refrigerate any leftover salad separately from dressing to maintain freshness.
• Adjust sweetness level: Modify the amount of maple syrup in the candied pecans to control how sweet you want your salad.

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

To complement your Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans, consider these delicious side dishes that pair well with its flavors.

1. Grilled Veggies: A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled until tender adds a smoky contrast to the salad.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn provides a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with fresh kale.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these provide a hearty addition alongside your salad.
5. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad seasoned with lemon juice complements the peach’s sweetness nicely.
6. Fruit Platter: A colorful selection of seasonal fruits enhances the fruity elements of your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans can be simple, but a few common mistakes can impact the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can lead to a soggy salad. Start with less and add more as needed, ensuring the kale is coated but not drenched.
• Choosing unripe peaches: Unripe peaches can be hard and lack flavor. Always opt for ripe, juicy peaches for the best taste and texture in your salad.
• Skipping the massage: Neglecting to massage the kale makes it tougher and less enjoyable to eat. Take time to massage the leaves until they are tender and vibrant.
• Ignoring pecan cooling time: Not allowing the candied pecans to cool properly can result in a sticky mess. Spread them out on parchment paper and let them sit until firm before using.
• Using stale nuts: Stale or old pecans can ruin your salad’s flavor. Always check the freshness of your nuts before adding them to ensure a delightful crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• Keep dressing separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to its fresh ingredients.
• If necessary, you could freeze only the candied pecans for up to 1 month.
• Thaw the pecans at room temperature before using them again.

Reheating Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread kale on a baking sheet and warm for about 5 minutes. This may wilt it slightly but will help combine flavors.
• Microwave: Place kale in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Be cautious not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Quickly sauté kale in a non-stick skillet over low heat just until warmed. This method helps retain some freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare kale for my Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans?

To prepare kale, remove the tough stems and tear it into bite-sized pieces. Washing thoroughly is also essential before using it in your salad.

Can I use other fruits in this Summer Kale Salad?

Absolutely! While peaches are lovely, feel free to substitute with other seasonal fruits like strawberries or nectarines that pair well with kale.

What type of vinegar works best for this recipe?

Sherry vinegar or white balsamic vinegar provides a nice balance of acidity without overpowering the flavors of your Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans.

How can I make this salad vegan-friendly?

To make this salad vegan, omit the goat cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The candied pecans add enough richness without dairy.

Final Thoughts

This Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans is not only refreshing but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adding different fruits, nuts, or even proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas. Give it a try, and enjoy a burst of summer flavors in every bite!