When the sun begins to warm the air and fresh greens start to beckon from the market stalls, I find myself craving something light yet satisfying. Enter my delightful Kalettes Salad recipe, a perfect blend of health and flavor that’s always on my radar. The first time I tried kalettes—those charming little leaves that are a hybrid of kale and Brussels sprouts—I was blown away by their tender texture and unique taste.
Paired with creamy goat cheese and drizzled with a zesty balsamic vinaigrette, this salad transforms any meal into something special. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or an elegant side dish for dinner, it effortlessly fits the bill. Each bite is a vibrant journey of flavors, making this dish a fantastic way to break free from the mundane routine of takeout. Let’s dive into this nutritious, gluten-free delight that’s sure to please even the pickiest of palates!
Why is this Kalettes Salad recipe a must-try?
Freshness at Its Finest: This salad showcases the vibrant taste of kalettes, ensuring every bite is packed with nutrition.
Creamy Goodness: The rich goat cheese adds a delightful creaminess that perfectly balances the crispy greens.
Quick & Convenient: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time, making it a fabulous option for busy days.
Versatile Dish: Whether served as a main or a side, this salad pairs well with anything from grilled meats to picnic spreads.
Nutritious Delight: Low in calories and high in vitamins, it’s a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy any day of the week!
For even more delicious ideas, check out my guide on healthy quick recipes!
Kalettes Salad Recipe Ingredients
For the Salad
- Kalettes™ – Unique blend of kale and Brussels sprouts that provides a nutritious base for the salad. Substitute with baby kale if unavailable.
- Goat Cheese – Adds creaminess and tang; feel free to use feta cheese as an alternative for a different flavor profile.
For the Dressing
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and richness; consider using avocado oil for a higher smoke point if needed.
- Balsamic Vinegar – Contributes acidity and sweetness; white balsamic can be used for a milder flavor.
This Kalettes Salad recipe is designed to tantalize your taste buds and brighten up your meals!
How to Make Kalettes Salad
Prepare the Greens: Rinse the kalettes™ thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel, then tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces to create the perfect salad base.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar until the mixture is well combined and emulsified. The dressing should have a glossy appearance.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the prepared kalettes with your freshly made dressing, ensuring every piece is nicely coated. Lastly, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Optional: Garnish with sliced almonds for an extra crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Kalettes Salad Recipe?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this vibrant salad with complementary flavors and textures that create a harmony of taste.
Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavors of grilled chicken pair perfectly with the zesty salad, adding protein and richness to your meal.
Pan-Seared Salmon: A succulent piece of salmon offers a buttery contrast, enhancing the freshness of the kalettes while providing omega-3 goodness.
Quinoa: Light and fluffy, quinoa not only adds a nutty flavor but also boosts the salad’s nutritional profile, making for a wholesome meal.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the tangy goat cheese, creating an appealing contrast in flavors that’s absolutely delightful.
Crunchy Almonds: Toss in some sliced almonds for an irresistible crunch. They’ll enhance the textural layers and give each bite a satisfying bite.
Chilled White Wine: Opt for a crisp, acidic white wine to echo the salad’s bright notes, making each sip as refreshing as your meal.
Lemon Sorbet: Finish off the meal with a light lemon sorbet, cleansing the palate and leaving a refreshing zing after your delicious salad.
Herbed Couscous: Pair with herbed couscous for an aromatic twist. It complements the robust flavors of the goat cheese beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Kalettes Salad recipe ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes in your busy schedule! You can wash and tear the kalettes up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ensuring they remain crisp and fresh. Additionally, you can whip up the tangy balsamic dressing and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days. Just remember to give the dressing a good shake before using it to re-emulsify. When you’re ready to enjoy the salad, simply combine the prepped kalettes with the dressing and sprinkle in the goat cheese right before serving to maintain its creamy texture. This way, you’ll have a delightful, nutritious meal ready to go without any last-minute fuss!
How to Store and Freeze Kalettes Salad
- Fridge: Store any leftover kalettes salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: This salad is best enjoyed fresh and isn’t recommended for freezing due to the textures. However, you can freeze the dressing separately for up to a month.
- Reheating: Since this is a salad, it’s meant to be served cold. If you opt to heat the dressing (for a warm salad), whisk in a bit of water and gently heat until warm, then drizzle over the salad.
- Room Temperature: If serving at a picnic or gathering, ensure the kalettes salad doesn’t sit out for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety.
Expert Tips for Kalettes Salad Recipe
Dry Greens Well: Make sure the kalettes are thoroughly dried after washing to prevent any excess moisture that could wilt the salad.
Whisk Vigorously: Use a whisk to emulsify the dressing fully, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the kalettes salad recipe.
Balance Flavors: Adjust the balsamic vinegar and olive oil according to your taste preferences; a bit more vinegar can enhance the tanginess if you like it zesty.
Storage Know-How: If preparing in advance, store the dressing separately from the salad to maintain freshness, and keep it in an airtight container for up to a week.
Experiment with Cheese: Don’t hesitate to try different cheeses, like feta or cottage cheese, for a twist on the flavor profile while maintaining the salad’s health benefits.
Kalettes Salad Variations
Feel free to make this salad your own with these delightful twists and substitutions.
Nutty Crunch: Add toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for a satisfying, crunchy texture that complements the creaminess of goat cheese.
Consider sprinkling the nuts on just before serving to keep them crisp, bringing an extra layer to every bite.Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs such as basil, dill, or parsley for a burst of fresh flavor.
Chopped herbs can elevate the salad, introducing aromatic notes that will dance on your palate.Fruit Fusion: Toss in sliced apples or pears for a sweet contrast to the tangy dressing.
Their natural sweetness and juicy crunch can bring an unexpected layer of delight in every bite.Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.
The spices can invigorate the dish, making it a unique experience for those who seek bold flavors.Creamy Alternative: Substitute goat cheese with avocado for a rich and creamy dairy-free option.
This swap still delivers on creaminess while keeping your meal light and nutritious.Roasted Veggies: Incorporate roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or butternut squash for a hearty, savory addition.
These will infuse their caramelized sweetness into the salad, giving it a warm and comforting feel.Grain Boost: Mix in cooked quinoa or farro for added substance and chewiness.
These grains can transform your salad into a filling meal while amplifying its nutritional profile.Citrus Zest: Squeeze some fresh lemon or orange juice over the salad for a refreshing citrus element.
The bright acidity will enhance the overall taste, making it lively and invigorating for your taste buds.
Kalettes Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right kalettes?
Absolutely! When selecting kalettes, look for leaves that are bright green and crisp. Avoid any that display dark spots all over or feel wilted to the touch. Fresh kalettes should have a slightly firm texture, similar to baby kale.
How should I store leftover kalettes salad?
To keep your kalettes salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Always keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, as this will help maintain the salad’s crispness.
Can I freeze kalettes salad?
This salad isn’t ideal for freezing due to the delicate nature of its components. However, you can freeze the balsamic vinaigrette separately for up to 1 month. To do this, pour the dressing into an airtight container or freezer bag, remove excess air, and seal tightly. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before drizzling over your fresh salad.
What if my dressing isn’t emulsifying?
Very! If your dressing isn’t coming together, it may simply need more vigorous whisking. Start by adding the oil slowly while whisking continuously; this helps blend the ingredients better. If the dressing still separates, try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, which acts as an emulsifier and holds everything together beautifully.
Are kalettes safe for pets or certain allergies?
Yes, kalettes are generally safe for pets, but it’s always wise to check with your veterinarian if new foods are introduced. As for allergies, kalettes are vegetables with no major allergens, but be cautious with goat cheese if you or anyone eating has a dairy allergy; consider using a dairy-free cheese or avocado as an alternative.
How can I customize the kalettes salad recipe?
For an even more flavorful experience, consider adding sliced almonds for crunch or roasted vegetables for depth. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, avocado is a fantastic substitute for goat cheese. Simply slice it and place it on top of the salad when serving for a creamy texture!
Delicious Kalettes Salad Recipe with Creamy Goat Cheese
Equipment
- - Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- small bowl
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 4 cups Kalettes™ Substitute with baby kale if unavailable.
- 4 oz Goat Cheese Feel free to use feta cheese as an alternative.
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Consider using avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
- 2 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar White balsamic can be used for a milder flavor.
Instructions
How to Make Kalettes Salad
- Rinse the kalettes™ thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel, then tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces to create the perfect salad base.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar until the mixture is well combined and emulsified. The dressing should have a glossy appearance.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the prepared kalettes with your freshly made dressing, ensuring every piece is nicely coated. Lastly, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.