As warm summer days beckon, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a vibrant salad bursting with seasonal flavors. Picture this: the moment you bite into a luscious cherry, the tangy sweetness dances on your palate, perfectly complemented by the sturdy, nutrient-rich kale that provides the foundation of this Cherry Kale Salad with Farro, Avocado, Feta, and Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette. I discovered this gem during a weekend pantry clean-out, inspired by the colorful array of ingredients screaming “make me!”
This salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it skillfully merges textures and flavors that delight the senses—from the chewiness of hearty farro and the creaminess of ripe avocado to the sharp bite of tangy feta. It’s a wholesome vegetarian option that transforms a simple meal into something special, perfect for lunch gatherings or hearty dinners. Whether you’re trying to break free from the sameness of fast food or simply looking to embrace clean eating, this salad is your quintessential summer dish. Let’s dive into the recipe and celebrate the flavors of the season!
Why is Cherry Kale Salad with Farro irresistible?
Freshness and Flavor: Each bite bursts with juicy cherries, balanced by the earthy taste of kale and farro.
Quick and Easy: Whip it up in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Nutrient Powerhouse: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats, this salad makes for a satisfying, guilt-free meal.
Versatile Gourmet Experience: Perfect as a main dish or a vibrant side, it’s sure to impress at any summer event.
A Wholesome Swap: Say goodbye to fast food and embrace a nourishing option that checks all your clean eating boxes! For added inspiration on translating seasonal flavors, explore my tips on delicious salad variations!
Cherry Kale Salad with Farro Ingredients
For the Salad
• Curly Kale – A nutrient-rich base that’s shredded for easy eating.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Enhances flavor; choose a high-quality oil for the best taste.
• Sea Salt – Just a pinch brightens the salad’s flavors perfectly.
• Cooked Farro (Quick Cooking 365 brand) – Provides chewiness; quinoa or bulgur can be used instead for gluten-free.
• Dark Sweet Cherries – Freshness and sweetness; pitted and halved for even distribution.
• Walnuts – Crunchy and packed with healthy fats; toasting brings out their flavor.
• Feta – Adds creaminess and a salty bite; goat cheese is a delightful alternative.
• Fresh Basil – Adds a fragrant, aromatic note; feel free to swap for mint or parsley.
• Avocado – Sliced for creaminess and healthy fats; add just before serving.
For the Cherry Balsamic Dressing
• Garlic – Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor; go for the real deal!
• Sour Cherry Jam – Infuses sweetness and reinforces the cherry theme; any fruit jam is a suitable alternative.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Offers tangy depth; opt for a good-quality balsamic for a richer taste.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Combines the dressing ingredients while enriching the flavors.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the dressing.
This Cherry Kale Salad with Farro is a celebration of summer flavors, making it an irresistible addition to your meal rotation!
How to Make Cherry Kale Salad with Farro
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Massage the Kale: Take the curly kale and place it in a large bowl. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Massage the leaves for about 1-2 minutes until they soften noticeably. This breaks down the fibers and makes the kale tender and delicious!
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Blend the Dressing: In a blender, combine garlic, sour cherry jam, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend everything together until the dressing is smooth and well combined. The aroma of fresh garlic will lift your spirits as you create this flavorful dressing!
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Combine Ingredients: In the bowl with the massaged kale, add the cooked farro, halved cherries, toasted walnuts, crumbled feta, and fresh basil. Gently toss everything together, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly distributed for maximum flavor in every bite.
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Add Avocado and Serve: Just before serving, slice the avocado and arrange it on top of the salad. Drizzle some of the cherry balsamic dressing over the top and garnish with extra basil and feta. This final touch not only enhances the presentation but also elevates the taste.
Optional: For added sweetness, toss in a handful of extra cherries right before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
This Cherry Kale Salad with Farro is perfect for meal prep! You can massage the kale and prepare the cherry balsamic dressing up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The cooked farro and other salad ingredients, like cherries and walnuts, can also be prepped ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, wait to add the avocado until just before serving, to keep it fresh and vibrant. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply combine everything, toss with the dressing, and you’ll have a delicious, hassle-free meal that saves you valuable time on busy weeknights!
Cherry Kale Salad Variations
Feel free to bring your own twist to this scrumptious salad and make it uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute farro with quinoa or rice for a gluten-free alternative without compromising texture.
- Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch minus the nuts.
- Feta-Free: Omit feta for a dairy-free version or switch it out for creamy avocado to retain the richness.
- Herb Swap: Use fresh mint or parsley in place of basil for a newfound flavor profile that refreshes the dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper to the dressing for a bit of heat.
- Fruit Boost: Toss in additional seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches to enhance sweetness and color.
- Roasted Veggies: For a heartier salad, add roasted sweet potatoes or beets for depth of flavor and a warming effect.
- Extra Crunch: Fold in some crispy fried shallots or pita chips right before serving for an enjoyable texture contrast.
Feel inspired to try out these variations and create a Cherry Kale Salad that truly reflects your taste buds!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Kale Salad
Room Temperature: Enjoy this vibrant salad fresh; it’s best consumed immediately after making it for optimal taste and texture.
Fridge: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. Keep the avocado separate until ready to serve to prevent browning.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended, as the kale will lose its texture and the dressing ingredients may separate.
Reheating: If you have leftover farro, it can be reheated and served with the kale and dressing; the salad, however, is best enjoyed cold.
What to Serve with Cherry Kale Salad with Farro?
Elevate your meal with these delightful companions, perfect for enhancing the flavors of your salad!
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky chicken balances the salad’s fresh ingredients, making it a hearty entrée that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
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Quinoa Stuffed Peppers: These colorful stuffed peppers offer a satisfying, veggie-packed side and complement the cherry flavors beautifully, creating a wholesome experience.
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Garlic Herb Bread: Warm, crispy bread served with a side of herb-infused olive oil is ideal for soaking up the cherry balsamic dressing and adds a delightful contrast in texture.
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Crispy Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy, flavorful chickpeas sprinkle a delightful twist, contributing protein and texture that enhances every bite of your salad.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, refreshing white wine pairs wonderfully with the salad, enhancing its bright flavors with every sip while keeping your meal light and breezy.
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Berry Sorbet: Finish with a refreshing dessert to cleanse the palate; the light sweetness of a mixed berry sorbet perfectly echoes the salad’s cherry notes.
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Smoky Roasted Eggplant: The rich, savory flavors of roasted eggplant contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cherries, making for an intriguing duo.
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Peach Iced Tea: This fragrant, fruity drink will not only quench your thirst but also provide a radiant flavor profile that complements your meal.
Expert Tips for Cherry Kale Salad
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Kale Massaging: Ensure you massage the curly kale thoroughly with olive oil and salt for 1-2 minutes to break down fibers, creating a tender texture.
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Flavor Fusion: Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving to let all the ingredients meld together, enhancing the flavor of your Cherry Kale Salad with Farro.
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Fresh Avocado: Add sliced avocado just before serving to maintain its creamy texture and prevent browning, ensuring a fresh taste in every bite.
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Dressing Balance: Taste the cherry balsamic dressing before adding it all to the salad; adjust the seasoning as needed for a perfect flavor balance.
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Mix & Match: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or what’s in season, keeping the recipe versatile and exciting.
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Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 1-2 days, and enjoy the salad cold for an easy, refreshing meal later on.
Cherry Kale Salad with Farro, Avocado, Feta, and Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe cherries?
Absolutely! When choosing cherries, look for those that are plump, shiny, and deep in color. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as they may indicate overripeness. A little squeeze can help, too; they should feel firm yet yield slightly to pressure.
How should I store leftovers?
Very good question! Store any leftover Cherry Kale Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 1-2 days. To keep the avocado fresh and prevent browning, store it separately and mix in just before serving.
Can I freeze Cherry Kale Salad?
No, it’s not recommended to freeze this salad. The kale will lose its crisp texture, and the dressing might separate when thawed. Instead, you can freeze any leftover farro for up to 3 months, and then reheat it to enjoy alongside fresh salad ingredients later.
What should I do if my salad is too salty?
If your salad ends up a bit too salty, don’t worry! You can balance it out by adding more fresh ingredients—like additional kale and avocado—or even a splash of extra balsamic vinegar. Mixing in a little more cooked farro can also absorb some saltiness.
Is there a gluten-free option for this salad?
Certainly! While farro is delicious, it isn’t gluten-free. You can substitute it with quinoa or bulgur for a gluten-free version. Both options provide a wonderful texture and wholesome goodness, making your Cherry Kale Salad every bit as delightful!
Cherry Kale Salad with Farro: A Fresh Delight with Feta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Massage the Kale: Take the curly kale and place it in a large bowl. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Massage the leaves for about 1-2 minutes until they soften noticeably.
- Blend the Dressing: In a blender, combine garlic, sour cherry jam, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend everything together until the dressing is smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In the bowl with the massaged kale, add the cooked farro, halved cherries, toasted walnuts, crumbled feta, and fresh basil. Gently toss everything together.
- Add Avocado and Serve: Just before serving, slice the avocado and arrange it on top of the salad. Drizzle some of the cherry balsamic dressing over it.