Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

This Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans is the perfect dish for warm weather gatherings. The salad combines vibrant summer produce with crunchy pecans and creamy goat cheese, making it both refreshing and satisfying. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch, this salad highlights the delightful flavors of summer. Enjoy the balance of sweet peaches, tangy blueberries, and a hint of smokiness from the candied pecans!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad takes only 20 minutes to make from start to finish, making it great for busy days.
• Nutrient-Packed: Full of superfoods like kale and peaches, this recipe offers vitamins and minerals to nourish your body.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh fruit with creamy goat cheese creates a deliciously unique flavor profile.
• Versatile Option: Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, this salad adapts well to any occasion.
• Colorful Presentation: The bright colors of the ingredients make this dish visually appealing on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans, having the right tools will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Fork
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: This allows you to easily combine ingredients without spilling.
• Skillet: Essential for making perfectly candied pecans with an even glaze.

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 prepare your candied pecans:
1. Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the pecan halves along with maple syrup, smoked paprika, and sea salt.
3. Stir constantly until the pecans are coated in a sticky glaze; this should take about 8 minutes.
4. Once done, transfer them to a parchment-lined plate to cool in a single layer.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing and Kale

Next, mix the dressing:
1. In a large bowl, combine all dressing ingredients using a fork.
2. Add in the torn kale leaves.
3. Toss everything together to coat the kale thoroughly.
4. Massage the kale by hand for 2-3 minutes until it becomes darker green and tender.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Finally, bring it all together:
1. Transfer the massaged kale onto a platter or divide it into serving plates.
2. Top each serving generously with peach slices, blueberries, crumbled goat cheese, and cooled candied pecans.

Enjoy your vibrant Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans!

How to Serve Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

Serving your Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans can elevate any meal. This salad is not only a colorful addition to the table but also offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

As a Light Lunch

• Pair it with whole grain bread for a wholesome meal.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled meats like steak or chicken—its freshness complements the rich flavors.
• Perfect with barbecued dishes, providing a refreshing contrast.

At a Picnic

• Pack it in an airtight container—great for outdoor gatherings.
• Combine with fresh fruit skewers for a seasonal treat.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare multiple servings at once; store in mason jars to keep ingredients fresh.
• Layer kale at the bottom to prevent sogginess from dressing.

How to Perfect Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

To perfect your Summer Kale Salad, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh peaches and blueberries will make your salad vibrant and flavorful.
• Massage the kale: Massaging the leaves helps soften them, making them more palatable.
• Experiment with dressings: Try adding citrus juice or different vinegars for variety in flavor.
• Toast the nuts: Toasting pecans enhances their nuttiness, adding depth to your salad.
• Add more fruits: Incorporate seasonal fruits like strawberries or nectarines for added sweetness.
• Serve immediately: For optimal freshness, serve right after preparation to enjoy crisp greens.

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

This Summer Kale Salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some ideas that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Juicy pieces of marinated chicken are perfect to balance the salad’s sweetness.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa dish adds protein and fiber, making your meal more filling.
3. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brings out summer flavors; grill it for extra smoky taste.
4. Caprese Salad – The freshness of mozzarella and tomatoes complements the kale salad beautifully.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Caramelized veggies add richness that pairs well with the sweet elements of the salad.
6. Fruit Platter – A selection of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your salad turns out perfectly.

• Using stale nuts: Freshness matters! Always use fresh pecans for candied pecans. Stale nuts can ruin the flavor and texture of your salad.
• Overdressing the kale: It’s important to coat the kale leaves well but avoid drowning them in dressing. Too much dressing can make the salad soggy rather than refreshing.
• Skipping the massaging step: Don’t skip massaging the kale! This step softens the leaves, making them tender and enjoyable to eat while enhancing their vibrant color.
• Not balancing flavors: Be mindful of flavor balance. Ensure that the sweetness from peaches and candied pecans is complemented by the acidity from the dressing. Adjust vinegar as needed for taste.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: High-quality ingredients make a big difference. Choose ripe peaches and good-quality olive oil for the best flavor in your salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Container type: Use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids to maintain freshness.
• Separation tip: Keep candied pecans separate until serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Freezing Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

• Not recommended: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as fresh ingredients like peaches and kale do not maintain their texture when thawed.

Reheating Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm gently for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally to warm evenly without cooking further.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have more questions about making this delicious salad, here are some common queries answered.

Can I substitute ingredients in Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans?

Yes! You can replace peaches with other seasonal fruits like nectarines or strawberries. You could also use walnuts if pecans aren’t available.

How do I keep my Summer Kale Salad fresh longer?

Store it without dressing, adding it just before serving. This keeps the kale crisp and prevents sogginess.

What can I pair with Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great side dish for summer barbecues or picnics.

Is Summer Kale Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is packed with nutrients from kale, fruits, and healthy fats from nuts, offering a balanced meal option.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can easily customize it by swapping fruits or nuts based on your preferences. This vibrant dish is perfect for summer gatherings or a light lunch at home. Enjoy creating your own version!