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Cherry, Goat Cheese & Toasted Pecan Kale Salad

Name: Cherry, Goat Cheese & Toasted Pecan Kale Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups kale, chopped; 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved; 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled; 1/3 cup toasted pecans; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar; 1 tsp honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on August 5, 2025

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Imagine a vibrant bowl of Cherry, Goat Cheese & Toasted Pecan Kale Salad, brimming with colors that could make a rainbow jealous. The sweet tang of cherries dances with the creamy goat cheese, while toasted pecans add a crunch that will have you reaching for seconds—if not thirds! Each bite bursts with flavor, and the earthy undertones of kale make it feel like you’re doing something good for your body while simultaneously treating your taste buds. decadent chocolate cherry brownies.

This salad isn’t just food; it’s an experience. I remember the first time I made this dish at a family gathering—my Uncle Bob, who usually only eats meat and potatoes, couldn’t get enough! We laughed as he declared himself a “kale convert,” proving that even the staunchest skeptics can be won over by the right combination of ingredients. homemade chia seed jam This Cherry, Goat Cheese & Toasted Pecan Kale Salad is perfect for summer barbecues, cozy dinners, or even just because you deserve something delicious any day of the week!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful salad is simple to prepare and will impress your guests with its sophisticated flavors
The vibrant colors create an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal
Enjoy it as a light lunch or as a stunning side dish at dinner parties
You can easily adapt the ingredients based on seasonal availability or personal preferences

A few weeks ago, my friends devoured this salad so quickly; I barely had time to snap a photo before it vanished!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Kale: Go for fresh, dark green leaves; they should be crisp and hearty for that satisfying crunch.
Cherries: Opt for ripe, juicy cherries; they add sweetness and a pop of color that’s irresistible.
Goat Cheese: Choose creamy goat cheese to create a rich contrast against the crunchy kale and sweet cherries.
Toasted Pecans: Toasting enhances their nuttiness; don’t skip this step for maximum flavor!
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling—it elevates all the flavors beautifully.
Balsamic Vinegar: A splash adds tangy depth; be sure to select aged balsamic for a sweeter note.
Honey: Just a hint balances out the tartness from the vinegar and brings everything together perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

The key to mastering this Cherry, Goat Cheese & Toasted Pecan Kale Salad lies in layering flavors and textures in each step. savory cheese and olive bread.

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing your kale thoroughly under cool water. Remove tough stems and tear leaves into bite-sized pieces. This makes them easier to chew and more enjoyable.

Toast Those Pecans!: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans until golden brown and fragrant—about 5 minutes will do. Keep an eye on them; they can burn quickly!

Mix Your Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—it should be tangy yet slightly sweet.

Toss It All Together!: In a large bowl, combine kale, cherries, toasted pecans, and crumbled goat cheese. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat every leaf without bruising them.

Serve & Enjoy!: Plate your salad in bowls or on individual plates. Garnish with additional pecans or cheese for an extra touch of elegance!

Enjoy this Cherry, Goat Cheese & Toasted Pecan Kale Salad fresh—its vibrant flavors are best when served immediately! For more inspiration, check out this Fresh Herbed Tuna Salad recipe.

You Must Know

The Cherry, Goat Cheese & Toasted Pecan Kale Salad is not just vibrant; it’s a flavor explosion
Using fresh ingredients will elevate the taste
Don’t skip toasting the pecans; their crunch adds the perfect texture contrast that will leave everyone asking for seconds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by washing and tearing your kale into bite-sized pieces. Then, toast the pecans in a dry skillet for about five minutes while prepping other ingredients to save time.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix in some grilled chicken or swap pecans for walnuts! Experimenting with different cheeses like feta can also spice up this delicious salad. For more inspiration, check out this Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat if desired, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve that perfect balance of flavors, always choose ripe cherries and creamy goat cheese
Don’t forget to massage your kale lightly to enhance its tenderness
The toasted pecans add a delightful crunch that makes each bite unforgettable

Memories of my friends devouring this salad at my picnic last summer still make me smile. Their compliments were as plentiful as the cherry juice stains on my favorite shirt!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen cherries in this salad?

Frozen cherries work well but may alter the salad’s texture and freshness.

Is kale necessary for this recipe?

While kale is recommended, you can substitute with spinach or mixed greens for a lighter option. hearty pumpkin spinach lasagna.

How can I make this salad vegan-friendly?

Simply replace goat cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and ensure no honey dressing is used.