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This kale salad with quinoa and blueberries brings summer to your table with every bite The mix of hearty greens whole grains juicy berries and crunchy vegetables makes it an ideal light meal or vibrant side Perfect for picnics lunches and meal prep days the flavors only deepen as it rests in the fridge
I first made this for a potluck with friends and everyone demanded the recipe The leftovers become more delicious by the next day
Ingredients
- Kale: I like lacinato or Tuscan for its tender texture and mild flavor Choose crisp dark leaves for the best result
- Quinoa: pre cooked and cooled it adds protein and makes the salad more substantial Pick white or tri color quinoa and rinse before cooking
- Blueberries: these bring a pop of sweetness and antioxidants Select firm deep blue berries with no wrinkles
- English cucumber: slice it thin for a crisp bite and mild flavor Look for one with smooth unblemished skin
- Avocado: adds creaminess and healthy fat it also balances the tangy dressing Choose a ripe just soft avocado
- Beets: spiralized for earthy crunch and vibrant color Raw beets should be heavy for their size and free from spots
Basil Balsamic Dressing
- Olive oil: forms the base rich and flavorful Extra virgin is worth the splurge here
- Lemon juice: brightens the dressing with a punch of acidity Use freshly squeezed for best taste
- Balsamic vinegar: adds sweetness and depth to the salad Look for a syrupy aged balsamic if available
- Fresh basil: brings an herbal lift and pairs wonderfully with the berries Pick leaves that are green and fragrant
- Sea salt and ground black pepper: enhance all the other flavors Use flaky or kosher salt and grind your pepper fresh
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Dressing:
- Combine olive oil lemon juice balsamic vinegar fresh basil sea salt and ground black pepper in a blender Blend until the basil is finely chopped and the mixture is smooth This step builds the herbal backbone of the salad
- Prep the Kale:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the kale Remove tough stems and chop the leaves into bite sized pieces Place the kale in a large bowl This helps create a tender ready to eat base
- Massage the Kale:
- Pour the basil balsamic dressing over chopped kale Using clean hands massage the dressing into the leaves for two to three minutes The kale will darken and soften as it absorbs flavor Refrigerate covered for at least one hour for best texture or even several hours if planning ahead
- Build the Salad:
- Just before serving add the quinoa blueberries sliced cucumber avocado cubes and spiralized beets to the bowl Mix gently to combine so the avocado stays intact Serve chilled or at room temperature
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Blueberries are my favorite ingredient here Their sweet burst in every bite makes each forkful exciting My niece who claimed not to like salad changed her mind after trying this one on a family camping trip
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge It stays fresh and crunchy for up to three days For best color and flavor add avocado to individual servings rather than the whole bowl
Ingredient Substitutions
Try cherries strawberries or raspberries in place of blueberries Use red or golden beets or grated carrots instead of spiralized beets To make it grain free use cooked cooled cauliflower rice instead of quinoa
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Serving Suggestions
This salad stands alone for lunch or dinner but is also great with grilled chicken salmon or marinated tofu It also pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a grain bowl
Cultural Context
Kale salads gained popularity in the early two thousands as people discovered how well massaging it tames its bitterness The combo of berries quinoa and beets reflects a modern American focus on colorful superfoods
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can swap quinoa with farro, bulgur, or even cauliflower rice for a grain-free version. Adjust cooking times as needed.
- → How long will this salad stay fresh?
It stays fresh in an airtight container for up to three days. For best texture, add avocado just before serving.
- → Can I substitute the blueberries?
Certainly. Cherries, strawberries, or raspberries work well, offering a similar sweet and tangy balance.
- → Is it necessary to massage the kale?
Massaging kale with dressing softens its texture and helps the flavors absorb better, making the greens more palatable.
- → What protein can I add to make it more filling?
Grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas are excellent options for adding protein and creating a heartier meal.
- → Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the basil balsamic dressing can be prepared in advance and stored refrigerated for up to a week.