Looking for a vibrant, refreshing salad that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your meals? Look no further than this Strawberry Balsamic Kale Salad! Bursting with the sweetness of fresh strawberries and the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar, this salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a delightful dish that serves four, making it perfect for a quick lunch, a side at dinner, or even a picnic treat. Ready to impress your friends and family? Dive into our simple recipe and discover how easy it is to create this deliciously healthy salad!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Kale, chopped
- Strawberries, sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Balsamic vinegar
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Wash the kale thoroughly and pat dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Remove the tough stems from the kale leaves and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform in size for even dressing distribution.
- In a large mixing bowl, massage the chopped kale with a small amount of olive oil using your hands. Gently massage for 2-3 minutes to help soften the leaves and reduce their toughness.
- Rinse fresh strawberries and pat them dry. Slice the strawberries into thin, even slices, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Create the balsamic vinaigrette by whisking together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
- Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the massaged kale and toss gently to ensure even coating.
- Add sliced strawberries to the dressed kale and gently fold them into the salad.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad, distributing it evenly.
- Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light meal.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, select ripe strawberries and fresh, vibrant kale. Look for kale that is deep green and free of blemishes.
- Massage the Kale: Don’t skip the massaging step! This process helps to break down the tough fibers in the kale, making it more tender and enjoyable to eat.
- Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the balsamic vinaigrette to your taste. Add a touch of honey for sweetness or a dash of mustard for an extra kick.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes after tossing helps the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Add Crunch: For added texture, consider tossing in some nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or pumpkin seeds, before serving.
- Serve Chilled: This salad is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it an excellent make-ahead option for gatherings.
- Experiment with Cheese: While feta adds a delightful creaminess, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative to suit your dietary preferences.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
