Imagine biting into a vibrant Cherry, Goat Cheese & Toasted Pecan Kale Salad, where sweet cherries dance with creamy goat cheese and crunchy pecans. homemade cherry pie filling The kale, slightly bitter yet tender, ties this delightful medley together, making your taste buds sing in perfect harmony.
This salad isn’t just a dish; it’s a masterpiece that brightens any table and lifts spirits. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a refreshing lunch, this salad will steal the show and become your new favorite go-to. For more inspiration, check out this Strawberry and Spinach Salad recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cherry, Goat Cheese & Toasted Pecan Kale Salad comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor explosion of sweet and savory ingredients creates a satisfying meal
- Its colorful presentation makes it an eye-catching addition to any gathering
- Plus, you can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand
I remember the first time I made this salad for a picnic with friends. apple cider stew recipe They devoured it in minutes and begged me for the recipe!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Kale: Choose dark green leaves for optimal flavor and nutrients; wash thoroughly to remove any grit.
- Sweet Cherries: Look for plump, juicy cherries; fresh or frozen work beautifully in this salad.
- Creamy Goat Cheese: Opt for soft goat cheese for that irresistible creaminess that complements the other flavors.
For more inspiration, check out this Asparagus and Goat Cheese Tart recipe.
- Toasted Pecans: Toasting brings out their rich flavor; keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it adds depth to the dressing.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic balances sweetness with tanginess; use aged for extra richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Kale: Start by washing and thoroughly drying your kale leaves. Remove tough stems and tear them into bite-sized pieces. Massage the kale gently with olive oil until it becomes tender.
Toast the Pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toss your pecans until they turn golden brown and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Keep stirring to prevent them from burning.
Add Cherries and Goat Cheese: Slice your cherries in half and add them to the kale along with crumbled goat cheese. These ingredients add sweetness and creaminess to balance the salad.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar until combined. Drizzle over the salad right before serving for maximum freshness.
Toss It All Together: Gently toss all ingredients until well-combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary — sometimes a pinch of salt is all you need!
Enjoy this Cherry, Goat Cheese & Toasted Pecan Kale Salad as a refreshing side or as a main dish packed with nutrients! pumpkin scones for brunch. hearty pumpkin chili.
You Must Know
- This vibrant Cherry, Goat Cheese & Toasted Pecan Kale Salad is a delightful explosion of flavors
- The balance of tart cherries and creamy goat cheese creates a perfect harmony
- You can easily prepare this salad ahead of time, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To maximize flavor, toast the pecans first, then combine with kale, cherries, and goat cheese for an irresistible salad.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out kale for spinach or arugula; add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein and texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid reheating to maintain freshness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; wilted kale can ruin your salad
- Toast pecans gently to enhance their nutty aroma
- Balancing sweet and savory elements is key to a delicious salad
The first time I made this salad, my friends devoured it in minutes—asking for the recipe like it was a family secret!
FAQ
How can I make this salad vegan?
Simply omit goat cheese and use maple syrup as a sweetener instead of honey.
What type of kale works best?
Lacinato kale is a favorite for its tender texture and rich flavor in salads.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the ingredients separately and mix just before serving to keep it fresh.
Cherry, Goat Cheese & Toasted Pecan Kale Salad
Cherry, Goat Cheese & Toasted Pecan Kale Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances sweet cherries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy pecans over tender kale. This delightful salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a flavor explosion that makes it an ideal choice for summer barbecues or quick lunches. With easy preparation and customizable ingredients, it will quickly become your go-to recipe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh kale, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup sweet cherries, halved (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup creamy goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/3 cup toasted pecans
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Wash and dry the kale leaves. Remove the stems and tear into pieces.
- Massage the kale with olive oil until tender.
- Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Add cherries and goat cheese to the kale.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar; drizzle over the salad just before serving.
- Toss all ingredients gently and adjust seasoning as needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
