Summer Peach Blueberry Kale

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Author: Lora
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Introduction to Summer Peach Blueberry Kale

Summer is a season ripe with flavor and joy, and there’s nothing quite like a refreshing salad to celebrate it. Summer Peach Blueberry Kale brings the sweetness of juicy peaches and plump blueberries together in a vibrant dish that’s as easy to whip up as it is delicious. Whether you’re juggling a busy schedule or looking to impress family with a dazzling meal, this salad is the perfect solution. With its bright colors and enticing tastes, it’s bound to become a favorite at your table, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!

Why You’ll Love This Summer Peach Blueberry Kale

This salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a breeze to make! With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll be savoring flavors in no time. The combination of sweet peaches and tangy blueberries brings an explosion of taste, while the kale adds a crunchy texture. It’s a healthy option packed with nutrients, perfect for busy moms or anyone looking to enjoy summer’s bounty without breaking a sweat.

Ingredients for Summer Peach Blueberry Kale

Creating a delightful Summer Peach Blueberry Kale salad hinges on fresh, vibrant ingredients. Let’s explore what you’ll need to bring this dish to life.

  • Green Kale: The star of the show! This leafy green is loaded with nutrients and adds a satisfying crunch to your salad.
  • Fresh Peaches: Sweet and juicy, ripe peaches elevate the flavor profile. Look for peaches that give slightly when pressed for the best taste.
  • Blueberries: Bursting with antioxidants, these little gems provide sweetness and a pop of color. Opt for firm, plump berries for the freshest flavor.
  • Pepitas (Pumpkin Seeds): A great source of healthy fats and crunch. You can also use sunflower seeds or slivered almonds if that’s what you have on hand.
  • Lemon Juice: This brightens up the salad and complements the sweetness of the fruits. Freshly squeezed is always the best choice!
  • Olive Oil: A key player in both massaging kale and creating the vinaigrette, it offers healthy fats and a rich flavor.
  • Honey: To balance the tartness of the dressing, honey adds a hint of sweetness. Feel free to swap it with maple syrup for a vegan option.
  • Cracked Black Pepper: A simple touch that enhances the overall flavor. Adjust to your taste preference!

Ready to get cooking? For precise measurements and a printable version of the recipe, check the bottom of the article!

How to Make Summer Peach Blueberry Kale

Making your Summer Peach Blueberry Kale salad is straightforward and fun! Let’s break it down step by step so you can create this delightful dish without stress.

Toast the Pepitas

Start by preheating your oven to 190°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Next, spread the pepitas evenly on the tray. Pop them into the oven for about 5 to 6 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as they should turn golden and fragrant—just like sunshine in your kitchen! Once toasted, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely.

Prepare the Vinaigrette

While the pepitas cool, let’s whip up the vinaigrette. In a small bowl or jar, combine the juice of four lemons, honey, olive oil, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. Whisk it all together until everything is well mixed and emulsified. This dressing is the magic touch that brings the whole salad together! Refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble.

Massage the Kale

Now, let’s give some love to our kale. Place the chopped kale leaves in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle a splash of olive oil and the juice of one lemon over the top. Now, it’s time to get hands-on! Massage the kale with your hands for about five minutes. You’ll notice the leaves soften and reduce in volume, making them much more enjoyable in your salad.

Prepare the Fruits

Rinse your peaches and blueberries gently. For the peaches, slice them in half, remove the pit, and dice into bite-sized pieces. Be sure to enjoy those juicy rewards as you work! Pat the blueberries dry with a paper towel; this keeps your salad from getting soggy and messy.

Combine the Ingredients

Once everything is prepped, it’s time for the best part! Add the diced peaches and blueberries to the massaged kale. Drizzle your vinaigrette over the salad, adjusting the amount to your taste. Toss everything gently to coat the fruits and greens evenly, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

Serve and Enjoy

Now for the final touch! Distribute the salad into individual bowls and top each serving with those delicious, crunchy toasted pepitas. Serve immediately for the best experience, and watch your loved ones delight in this vibrant dish. Enjoy your refreshing Summer Peach Blueberry Kale, and don’t forget to share the joy!

Tips for Success

  • Always choose ripe peaches for the best sweetness and flavor.
  • Massage the kale long enough to ensure it softens; this step is crucial.
  • Make the vinaigrette in advance to let flavors meld together.
  • Keep your pepitas separate until serving to maintain crunchiness.
  • Feel free to experiment with other fruits to mix up the flavors!

Equipment Needed

  • Baking Tray: For toasting pepitas; a cookie sheet works well too.
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy cleanup; foil can be a substitute.
  • Mixing Bowl: Use a large bowl for massaging the kale; any deep bowl will do.
  • Whisk: To blend your vinaigrette; a fork is a handy alternative.
  • Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for prepping your fruits.

Variations of Summer Peach Blueberry Kale

  • Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a hearty meal.
  • Different Greens: Swap kale for spinach or arugula for a milder flavor.
  • Cheese Options: Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy contrast to the sweetness.
  • Dress it Up: Experiment with flavored oils, like cherry or walnut, for added depth.
  • Spices and Herbs: Fresh mint or basil can elevate the salad’s flavor profile.
  • Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon peel into the salad for an extra zing of citrus.

Serving Suggestions for Summer Peach Blueberry Kale

  • Pair with Grilled Fish: This salad beautifully complements salmon or tilapia for a complete meal.
  • Delightful Drink: Serve with a chilled glass of iced green tea or a light white wine.
  • Presentation Tips: Use clear glass bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of your salad.
  • Perfect for Picnics: Pack it in a mason jar layered for easy transport and serving.
  • Add a Side: Accompany with crusty bread for a satisfying lunch option.

FAQs about Summer Peach Blueberry Kale

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the kale and vinaigrette up to a day ahead. Just wait to add the pepitas until you’re ready to serve. This keeps them crunchy and fresh.

What can I substitute for kale? If kale isn’t your favorite, no worries! You can easily swap it for baby spinach or arugula. Both options will provide a softer texture while still pairing wonderfully with the peaches and blueberries.

Is this salad vegan? Yes, it is! The Summer Peach Blueberry Kale salad is naturally vegan due to its ingredients. Just make sure any substitutions, like honey, are vegan-friendly if that’s a concern.

How do I store leftovers? To keep your salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. However, I recommend eating it within a day or two for the best taste and texture before the fruits start to wilt.

Can I add other fruits? Certainly! Feel free to mix in your favorite seasonal fruits like strawberries or cherries. The beauty of this salad is that it’s versatile and can adapt to whatever you have on hand!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Summer Peach Blueberry Kale salad has been a delightful journey for me, one that celebrates the beauty of summer’s bounty. There’s something magical about combining fresh ingredients that not only nourish our bodies but also warm our hearts. Every bite of sweet peaches, juicy blueberries, and hearty kale takes me back to sun-soaked afternoons spent outdoors. This salad is more than a meal; it’s a sharing of love and flavor with my family and friends. I hope you relish this experience too, savoring each moment spent crafting and enjoying this vibrant dish together!

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Summer Peach Blueberry Kale


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  • Author: Lora
  • Total Time: 21 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A refreshing salad combining sweet peaches, blueberries, and kale, perfect for summer.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 bunches green kale, stems removed and leaves chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 to 4 fresh peaches, pitted and diced
  • 250 grams blueberries
  • 60 millilitres pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
  • 1 lemon, juiced (for massaging kale)
  • Olive oil, for massaging kale
  • 4 lemons, juiced (for vinaigrette)
  • 40 millilitres honey
  • 60 millilitres olive oil (for vinaigrette)
  • Cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Evenly spread pepitas on the tray and toast for 5–6 minutes until aromatic and lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
  2. Combine lemon juice, honey, olive oil and cracked black pepper in a small bowl or jar. Whisk thoroughly until emulsified. Refrigerate until ready to use.
  3. Place chopped kale leaves into a large mixing bowl. Add a splash of olive oil and the juice of 1 lemon. Using your hands, massage the kale firmly for approximately 5 minutes until leaves soften and reduce in volume.
  4. Rinse peaches and blueberries. Dice the peaches into bite-sized pieces and pat the blueberries dry.
  5. Add diced peaches and blueberries to the massaged kale. Drizzle with desired amount of vinaigrette. Toss gently to ensure an even coating.
  6. Distribute salad into individual bowls and top each serving with toasted pepitas immediately before serving.

Notes

  • Choose ripe peaches for the best flavor.
  • This salad can be made ahead of time, just add the pepitas right before serving to keep them crunchy.
  • Experiment with different nuts or seeds if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing, Toasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 230
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 5mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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Lora Carter

Welcome to At Recipes Inspired, we believe food speaks a universal language—one of comfort, curiosity, creativity, and connection. Founded by Lora, a devoted home cook and cultural food enthusiast, this blog is your passport to exploring the heart of global cuisine from the warmth of your own kitchen.

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