Discover the vibrant flavors of summer with our Kale Cherry Avocado Salad, drizzled with a zesty lemon poppy seed dressing that will make your taste buds dance! This refreshing dish combines the earthy crunch of kale, the sweetness of cherries, and the creamy richness of avocado, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delightful salad that not only looks stunning on your plate but also packs a nutritious punch. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a side dish for your next gathering, or a healthy snack, this salad is sure to impress. Get ready to elevate your salad game and enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite!
Ingredients
- Kale, chopped
- Cherries, pitted and halved
- Avocado, diced
- Lemon juice
- Poppy seeds
- Olive oil
- Honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the kale leaves under cold running water, then pat dry completely using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner.
- Remove the tough stems from the kale and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size for even dressing distribution.
- In a large mixing bowl, massage the chopped kale with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Gently massage the leaves for 2-3 minutes to help break down the tough fibers and make the kale more tender.
- Pit and halve the fresh cherries, removing any stems or blemishes. Set aside.
- Dice the ripe avocado into small, uniform cubes, being careful to remove the skin and pit completely.
- For the dressing, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), poppy seeds, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl until well combined and emulsified.
- Add the halved cherries and diced avocado to the massaged kale in the large bowl.
- Drizzle the prepared lemon poppy seed dressing over the salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing and nutritious salad.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, select ripe avocados and fresh cherries. The quality of your ingredients will significantly enhance the overall taste of the salad.
- Massage the Kale: Don’t skip the massaging step! This technique breaks down the tough fibers in the kale, making it more tender and enjoyable to eat.
- Customize the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more honey or maple syrup according to your preference. A little extra lemon juice can also brighten the flavors!
- Add Crunch: For an added crunch, consider tossing in some nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or sunflower seeds, to give your salad an extra layer of texture.
- Make Ahead: If you're prepping this salad for a gathering, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Just mix everything together right before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.
- Serve It Cold: This salad is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you have time, let it sit in the refrigerator for a bit after tossing to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
