There’s nothing quite like the burst of juicy, dark sweet cherries mingling with the earthy goodness of kale in my Cherry Kale Salad with Farro, Avocado, Feta, and Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette. This vibrant dish takes dull greens and transforms them into a celebration of textures and flavors that even the most devoted fast-food fans will find irresistible.
One sunny afternoon, while wandering through the local farmer’s market, I stumbled upon the ripest cherries, and an idea sparked. I had kale in the fridge and some leftover farro waiting for inspiration. Little did I know, this would turn into a salad that would impress friends and family alike at our summer gatherings.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. It’s hearty enough to stand alone as a meal or bright enough to complement any main dish. The creamy avocado and crumbled feta add richness, while the homemade cherry balsamic dressing ties everything together with an irresistible sweetness that keeps you coming back for more. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds!
Why is this Cherry Kale Salad irresistible?
Bursting with flavor, the Cherry Kale Salad with Farro, Avocado, Feta, and Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Nutritious and filling, this salad makes for an easy meal that satisfies without the guilt. Quick to prepare, you can whip it up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or for impressing guests. Versatile enough to pair with grilled chicken or serve as a main event, it’s a crowd-pleaser with its vibrant colors and bold taste. Don’t miss out on this perfect blend of textures! Whether you’re a home cook or a culinary enthusiast, give this recipe a try today!
Cherry Kale Salad Ingredients
• Dive into the fresh flavors with Cherry Kale Salad!
For the Salad
- Curly kale – de-stemmed and shredded; this leafy green provides a hearty base full of nutrients.
- Cooked farro – 2 cups; this ancient grain adds a chewy texture and is a great source of protein.
- Dark sweet cherries – pitted and halved; their juicy sweetness elevates the salad to a new level.
- Walnuts – toasted and chopped; these add a delightful crunch and healthy fats.
- Crumbled feta – for that creamy, tangy finish; a must-have for enhancing overall flavor.
- Fresh basil – chopped; it brings a hint of aromatic freshness that complements the other ingredients.
- Avocado – sliced; its creamy texture makes each bite rich and fulfilling.
For the Dressing
- Extra virgin olive oil – 1/3 cup; this healthy fat helps blend all the flavors together beautifully.
- Balsamic vinegar – 1/4 cup; it provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cherries.
- Sour cherry jam – 1 tablespoon; an unexpected touch that packs a sweet punch for the dressing.
- Garlic – chopped; this adds an aromatic kick to the vinaigrette.
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon and pepper – 1/4 teaspoon; to season the dressing and enhance the flavors.
Embrace the joy of making this appealing Cherry Kale Salad with Farro, Avocado, Feta, and Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette!
How to Make Cherry Kale Salad with Farro
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Massage the kale by placing it in a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Using your hands, massage the kale for about one to two minutes until it softens and reduces in volume. This creates a tender base for your salad.
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Blend the dressing by combining garlic, sour cherry jam, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender. Pulse until completely smooth and emulsified, creating a luscious cherry balsamic vinaigrette.
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Combine the ingredients by adding cooked farro, halved cherries, walnuts, feta, and ¼ cup of the dressing to the massaged kale. Gently stir to ensure everything is well mixed and coated with that delightful dressing.
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Top the salad with sliced avocado, arranging it creatively for both beauty and flavor. Serve it alongside any extra dressing, chopped basil, and crumbled feta for an additional dash of garnish!
Optional: Sprinkle extra walnuts on top for added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Planning your meals has never been easier with the Cherry Kale Salad with Farro, Avocado, Feta, and Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette! You can prepare the salad’s base—massaged kale, cooked farro, cherries, walnuts, and feta—up to 3 days in advance. Simply store these components in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just toss in the fresh basil, avocado, and cherry balsamic dressing, then mix thoroughly. For the dressing, it can be blended ahead and stored in a jar for up to 1 week. This way, you’ll have a delicious, vibrant salad that’s just as delightful, saving you time during your busy week!
Cherry Kale Salad Variations
Feel free to explore and customize this Cherry Kale Salad to suit your palate and dietary needs!
- Grain-Free: Substitute farro with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a gluten-free option that still provides amazing texture.
- Nuts Alternative: Swap walnuts for slivered almonds or sunflower seeds, offering a different crunch and nutty flavor profile.
- Vegan Delight: Replace feta with vegan cheese or leave it out entirely for a delicious, plant-based twist without losing flavor.
- Add Protein: Throw in grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein, making this salad both heartier and satisfying for a main meal.
- Fruit Fusion: Experiment with diced apples or sliced strawberries in place of cherries for a refreshing change that brightens up the palette.
- Spicy Kick: Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that elevates the flavor experience even more.
- Herb Variations: Swap fresh basil for mint or cilantro, each bringing its own unique flavor and freshness to the salad.
- Creamy Dressing: For a richer dressing, mix in some Greek yogurt with the vinaigrette; it adds creaminess without too much guilt!
Go ahead and let your creativity shine in the kitchen. Each variation will indeed bring a fresh spin to this already delightful dish!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Kale Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover Cherry Kale Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the avocado separate to prevent browning.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze the salad due to the creamy avocado and fresh ingredients. However, you can freeze the dressing for up to 1 month, just shake well before using.
Reheating: If you prefer warm farro, reheat it separately in the microwave or on the stove before combining with the salad, but avoid reheating the entire salad to maintain its freshness.
Wrap: If storing the entire salad, wrap any exposed surfaces with plastic wrap to minimize air contact and maintain freshness for enjoyably longer.
What to Serve with Cherry Kale Salad with Farro, Avocado, Feta, and Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette?
Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that enhance the flavors and textures of this vibrant salad.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, it complements the salad with a perfect protein boost without overpowering the freshness.
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Quinoa Cakes: Lightly crispy and savory, they add a delightful crunch while fitting seamlessly into a wholesome meal.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness echoes the cherries and deepens the vegetable experience, bringing warmth to your dining table.
The combination of the caramelized notes from these sweet potatoes with the salad’s tartness creates a delicious contrast that’s sure to please.
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Herbed Couscous: Fluffy and fragrant with fresh herbs, this side brings a lovely texture that contrasts beautifully with the kale.
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Toasted Pita Chips: Crunchy and ideal for dipping, they provide a playful snack option that adds fun to your meal.
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Peach Iced Tea: Refreshingly sweet and slightly tangy, this drink adds a fruity layer that complements both the salad’s flavors and the dining experience.
Savor each bite and sip as you enjoy this complete meal that dances on the palate!
Expert Tips for Cherry Kale Salad
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Kale Prep: Always massage the kale well with olive oil and salt; this makes it tender and reduces its bitterness, creating a more enjoyable base for your Cherry Kale Salad.
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Cherry Selection: Choose dark sweet cherries that are ripe for the best flavor; there’s nothing like their juice to elevate the dish.
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Farro Cooking: Ensure your farro is cooked al dente for a pleasant chewy texture, which balances beautifully with the other ingredients in your salad.
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Dressing Tips: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sour cherry jam to your dressing; taste as you go to find your perfect balance in the Cherry Kale Salad.
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Serving Fresh: For the best flavor and crunch, serve the salad right after assembling. This keeps the kale crisp and the avocado from browning!
Cherry Kale Salad with Farro, Avocado, Feta, and Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs
What type of kale should I use for the Cherry Kale Salad?
I recommend using curly kale for its texture and ability to hold up beautifully in a salad. It’s best when fresh and vibrant green. Look for leaves that are free of dark spots or wilting.
How long can I store leftover Cherry Kale Salad in the fridge?
You can store any leftover Cherry Kale Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, I advise keeping the avocado separate until you’re ready to eat, as it can brown quickly and affect the salad’s appearance.
Can I freeze the Cherry Kale Salad?
It’s best to avoid freezing the entire salad. The avocado and fresh ingredients do not thaw well. However, you can freeze the Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette for up to 1 month. To do this, pour the dressing into an ice cube tray and freeze. When ready to use, simply thaw a few cubes in the fridge overnight or at room temperature.
What should I do if my salad dressing separates?
If your dressing separates, don’t worry! Just give it a good whisk or blend it again until it’s emulsified. For a smoother consistency, you can also add a little bit of water or more olive oil to achieve your desired thickness.
Are there any dietary considerations for this Cherry Kale Salad?
Absolutely! The Cherry Kale Salad is vegetarian-friendly, but if you’re looking for a vegan option, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative. Additionally, be cautious with the walnuts if you have nut allergies, and pumpkin seeds can be a great alternative for that crunch!
How can I prevent the avocado from browning in my salad?
To keep your avocado from browning, you can sprinkle it with a little lemon juice right after cutting. This helps slow down the oxidation process. If preparing the salad ahead, add the avocado just before serving for the freshest flavor and appearance.
Savor This Cherry Kale Salad with Farro and Avocado Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Massage the kale by placing it in a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Using your hands, massage the kale for about one to two minutes until it softens.
- Blend the dressing by combining garlic, sour cherry jam, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender. Pulse until completely smooth.
- Combine the ingredients by adding cooked farro, halved cherries, walnuts, feta, and ¼ cup of the dressing to the massaged kale. Gently stir to combine.
- Top the salad with sliced avocado and serve it alongside any extra dressing, chopped basil, and crumbled feta.