Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

July 9, 2025

Updated:

July 9, 2025

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This Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for warm days. Bursting with juicy peaches, fresh blueberries, and the crunch of candied pecans, this salad is not only refreshing but also nutritious. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, enjoying a family dinner, or looking for a light lunch, this salad is versatile enough for any occasion. The creamy goat cheese adds an extra layer of richness that ties everything together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh and Flavorful: Packed with seasonal produce, this salad highlights the best flavors of summer.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants from kale, peaches, and blueberries.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in season.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors make it a stunning dish for any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans, gather these essential tools to streamline your preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Skillet
Parchment paper
Fork

Importance of Each Tool

Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing ingredients without spilling.
Skillet: Ideal for making the candied pecans evenly without burning them.

Ingredients

This refreshing berry peachy kale salad is packed with summer superfoods and topped with creamy goat cheese and crunchy candied pecans.

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon sherry vinegar or white balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon stone ground mustard
Freshly ground black pepper

For the Salad

5 cups lightly packed torn kale leaves (center stems removed)
1 ripe peach, sliced
1/2 cup blueberries
2 ounces crumbled chèvre

For the Candied Pecans

1 tablespoon butter
3/4 cup pecan halves
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon maple syrup
1/8 teaspoon bittersweet smoked paprika

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

Step 1: Make the Candied Pecans

Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the pecan halves, maple syrup, smoked paprika, and a couple of pinches of sea salt.
Cook while stirring constantly until the pecans are coated in a sticky glaze and no liquid remains in the pan, about 8 minutes.
Transfer the pecans to a parchment-lined plate and spread them out in a single layer to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a large bowl, mix all dressing ingredients using a fork until well combined.

Step 3: Massage the Kale

Add the torn kale leaves to the dressing.
Toss to coat them thoroughly and massage by hand until they reduce in volume, appear darker green, and become tender (about 2 to 3 minutes).

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Transfer the dressed kale to a platter or divide it between individual serving plates.
Top with sliced peach, blueberries, crumbled goat cheese, and candied pecans.

Enjoy your vibrant Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans!

How to Serve Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

This vibrant Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans is not just a dish; it’s an experience. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or even a refreshing lunch. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your salad experience.

Pair with Grilled Proteins

Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken complements the sweet peaches and adds protein.
Salmon Fillet: The richness of salmon pairs beautifully with the tangy salad.
Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned shrimp bring a hint of ocean flavor to the meal.

Enjoy as a Standalone Dish

Light Lunch: Serve the salad on its own for a nourishing, quick lunch option.
Brunch Delight: This salad makes for a stunning addition to any brunch spread.

Add Complementary Beverages

Iced Tea: A refreshing iced tea balances the flavors without overpowering them.
Sparkling Water: Infused sparkling water adds a bubbly touch to your meal.

How to Perfect Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

To truly enjoy this summer kale salad, consider these helpful tips that can enhance your dish’s flavor and presentation.

Bold Ingredients: Use ripe, in-season peaches for maximum sweetness and juiciness.
Texture Matters: Opt for fresh, crunchy kale leaves for a better texture contrast.
Massage the Kale: Gently massaging the kale will soften it and enhance its flavor absorption.
Customize Your Nuts: Experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds if you prefer different flavors.
Dressing Variations: Try adding herbs like basil or mint to your dressing for an additional flavor dimension.
Make Ahead Option: Prepare the candied pecans in advance to save time on busy days.

Best Side Dishes for Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

This refreshing salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and sweetness alongside the salad.
Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf offers a hearty side that balances the lightness of the salad.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring an earthy flavor that enhances any meal.
Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers provide freshness and color.
Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with herbs can be a great pairing.
Herbed Flatbread: Serve warm herbed flatbread on the side for dipping into any leftover dressing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your salad turns out perfectly.

Overdressing the salad: Using too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a smaller amount and add more if needed after tossing.
Neglecting to massage the kale: Not massaging the kale leaves can lead to a tough texture. Take 2-3 minutes to gently massage them until they soften and darken in color.
Skipping the candied pecans: The candied pecans add crucial flavor and crunch. Don’t skip this step; they are essential for balance in the dish.
Using unripe peaches: Unripe peaches lack sweetness and flavor. Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best taste in your salad.
Ignoring seasonality: Using out-of-season ingredients can diminish flavor. Always opt for seasonal produce for freshness and taste.

Refrigerator Storage

Store your Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans in an airtight container.
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain kale texture.

Freezing Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of both kale and peaches.
If necessary, you can freeze candied pecans separately for longer storage.

Reheating Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes without letting it get soggy.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until warmed through; avoid overheating to keep textures intact.
Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans healthy?

This salad combines nutrient-rich kale, sweet peaches, and healthy fats from pecans, making it a balanced option packed with vitamins and minerals.

Can I customize my Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans?

Absolutely! You can add other fruits like strawberries or nuts such as walnuts. Feel free to adjust dressings according to your taste preferences.

How do I store leftover Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep dressing separate when possible to maintain freshness.

Is there a vegan version of this Summer Kale Salad?

Yes! Simply replace goat cheese with a plant-based cheese or omit it altogether. The remaining ingredients still provide great flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Kale Salad with Peaches and Candied Pecans is not only refreshing but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its combination of sweet peaches, crunchy candied pecans, and creamy goat cheese creates a delightful explosion of flavors. Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry—this recipe is sure to impress!