This refreshing summer salad mixes juicy peaches, sweet blueberries, and crisp kale for a light and tasty treat. It’s colorful, healthy, and perfect for hot days!
I love to add a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of nuts on top. It makes every bite feel like a summer picnic! You can whip it up in no time, and it’s great for sharing too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kale: This salad shines with sturdy kale, which holds up well to dressing. If kale isn’t available, feel free to use spinach or arugula for a different flavor. I usually mix in some Swiss chard as well!
Peaches: Ripe peaches add sweetness and juiciness. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines work well too! You can even use canned peaches in a pinch—just make sure they’re packed in juice, not syrup.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are ideal for their natural sweetness. If you can’t find them, try frozen blueberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
Pumpkin seeds (pepitas): These add a nice crunch! If you want a different texture, sunflower seeds or sliced almonds are great alternatives. Nuts like walnuts also complement the dish well!
Honey or Maple Syrup: I love using honey for its sweetness. If you prefer a vegan option, maple syrup is an excellent substitute. Adjust according to your taste preference!
How to Massage Kale Properly?
Massaging kale is the key trick to making it tender and delicious. This technique breaks down the tough fibers and makes it easier to eat. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start with clean, chopped kale in a large bowl.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
- With clean hands, gently scrunch and rub the kale for 2-3 minutes.
Keep working it until it looks darker and feels softer. This method brings out the best flavor!
Easy Summer Peach and Blueberry Kale Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and diced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes of preparation time. It’s quick to make and perfect for a light summer meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Massaging the Kale:
Start by placing the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt over the kale. Using your hands, gently massage the kale for about 2-3 minutes until the leaves soften and turn a darker shade. This helps to make it more tender and flavorful!
2. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. This simple honey-lemon vinaigrette will brighten up the salad and enhance the flavors.
3. Adding the Fresh Ingredients:
Add the diced peaches and blueberries to the bowl with the massaged kale. Their natural sweetness will complement the salad beautifully.
4. Combining It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the mixture of kale, peaches, and blueberries. Toss everything gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
5. Adding Crunch:
Sprinkle the pumpkin seeds (pepitas) over the top of the salad for a satisfying crunch and added nutrition!
6. Serving:
Enjoy your salad right away or let it chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Either way, it’s a delicious and colorful addition to any summer meal!
This bright and vibrant salad perfectly combines the sweetness of fresh summer fruit with hearty kale and crunchy seeds, all topped with a light honey-lemon vinaigrette. It’s an easy-to-make dish you’ll love to share!
FAQ for Easy Summer Peach and Blueberry Kale Salad
Can I Use Other Greens Instead of Kale?
Absolutely! While kale provides great texture and nutrition, you can substitute it with spinach, arugula, or Swiss chard for a different flavor and style. Just keep in mind each green’s texture and flavor will slightly change the salad!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from wilting. Just add the dressing when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
What Can I Substitute for Pumpkin Seeds?
If pumpkin seeds aren’t available, try sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, or even chopped walnuts for a crunchy texture. Each will add its own unique flavor to the salad!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep most of the salad ingredients (kale, peaches, blueberries) in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing and pumpkin seeds right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp!
