Name: Kale Orange Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 bunch curly kale; ⅔ cup almonds; ⅓ cup Green Onions; 3 oz goat cheese; 1 blood orange; 2 mandarin oranges; For Vinaigrette Dressing:; 3 tbsp white balsamic vinegar; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp fresh orange juice; ½ tsp sea salt; 1½ tsp dijon mustard; 1 tsp honey

This kale orange salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, combining the crispness of kale with the sweetness of citrus and creaminess of goat cheese. It's a perfect side dish or light meal that's both nutritious and satisfying.

Photos of Kale Orange Salad Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be common in every household. For instance, blood oranges can be seasonal and might not always be available. If needed, they can be replaced with regular oranges. Also, white balsamic vinegar is not as commonly used as other types of vinegar, but it adds a unique flavor to the dressing. Make sure to grab fresh mandarin oranges and goat cheese when you make your trip to the supermarket.

Ingredients For Kale Orange Salad

Curly kale: A sturdy green that holds up well to dressings and provides a hearty base for the salad.

Almonds: Adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor to the salad.

Green onions: Brings a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Goat cheese: Provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet oranges.

Blood orange: Offers a unique, slightly tart citrus flavor and vibrant color.

Mandarin oranges: Adds sweetness and juiciness to the salad.

White balsamic vinegar: Gives a sweet and tangy flavor to the vinaigrette.

Extra virgin olive oil: A rich oil that binds the vinaigrette and adds depth to the dressing.

Fresh orange juice: Enhances the citrus flavor in the vinaigrette.

Sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the salad.

Dijon mustard: Adds a slight tang and depth to the vinaigrette.

Honey: Balances the acidity of the vinegar with a touch of sweetness.

One reader, Dee Frost says:

This kale orange salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The tangy vinaigrette perfectly complements the sweet oranges and creamy goat cheese. It's a refreshing and healthy dish that's easy to make and sure to impress!

Dee Frost

Key Techniques for Crafting a Kale Orange Salad

How to prepare kale: Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. How to toast almonds: Place almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden brown and fragrant. How to segment oranges: Cut off the top and bottom of the oranges, then slice away the peel and pith. Use a knife to cut between the membranes to release the segments. How to make vinaigrette: Whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, orange juice, sea salt, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.

How To Make Kale Orange Salad

A wonderful dish with bright notes that you’ll love come wintertime! This kale orange salad is the perfect fruit and veggie salad you’ve been craving for.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1 bunchcurly kale(about 9 oz) thick ribs removed, remaining thinly sliced
⅔cupalmondssliced, toasted
⅓cupgreen onionssliced
3ozgoat cheesecrumbled
1blood orangepeeled and sliced into rounds then halved
2mandarin orangespeeled and segmented

For Vinaigrette Dressing:

3tbspwhite balsamic vinegar
3tbspextra virgin olive oil
2tbspfresh orange juice
½tspsea salt
1½tspdijon mustard
1tsphoney

Instructions

Salad:

Add kale, half of the almonds, half of the green onions and the mandarin oranges to a salad bowl.
Pour over vinaigrette dressing then toss salad. Top with remaining almonds and green onions, add blood oranges and goat cheese and serve.

Vinaigrette:

In a mixing bowl whisk together all ingredients. Chill until ready to serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 428.22kcal
Fat: 28.55g
Saturated Fat: 5.61g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 16.10g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.83g
Carbohydrates: 33.48g
Fiber: 11.57g
Sugar: 14.24g
Protein: 18.34g
Cholesterol: 9.78mg
Sodium: 434.81mg
Calcium: 425.34mg
Potassium: 1305.76mg
Iron: 4.62mg
Vitamin A: 1079.68µg
Vitamin C: 267.86mg

Expert Advice for Mastering Kale Salad Preparation

To soften the kale and make it more palatable, massage the leaves with a bit of olive oil and a pinch of sea salt for a few minutes before adding the other ingredients. This will help break down the tough fibers and enhance the flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing kale orange salad recipe

Prep ingredients in advance: Wash and chop the kale, slice the green onions, and segment the oranges the night before.

Use pre-sliced almonds: Save time by purchasing pre-sliced almonds instead of slicing them yourself.

Make vinaigrette ahead: Whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients and store it in the fridge until ready to use.

Buy crumbled goat cheese: Opt for pre-crumbled goat cheese to avoid the extra step of crumbling it yourself.

Use a salad spinner: Quickly dry the kale after washing with a salad spinner to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Kale Orange Salad Recipe

curly kale - Substitute with spinach: Spinach has a milder flavor and softer texture, making it a good alternative for those who find kale too tough or bitter.
almonds - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor, and they are also rich in healthy fats.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
goat cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese has a similar tangy flavor and crumbly texture, making it a suitable replacement.
blood orange - Substitute with navel orange: Navel oranges are more commonly available and provide a similar citrusy sweetness.
mandarin oranges - Substitute with clementines: Clementines are easy to peel and have a similar sweet and juicy profile.
white balsamic vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a mild acidity and a slightly fruity flavor, making it a good alternative.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a mild flavor that works well in dressings.
fresh orange juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor, though it is slightly more tart.
sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar texture and flavor, making it an easy swap.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard has a similar tangy flavor with a bit more texture.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and can be used in the same quantity.

How to Beautifully Present a Kale and Orange Salad

Prepare the kale: Thoroughly wash and dry the curly kale. Remove the tough stems and finely chop the leaves to ensure a delicate texture.
Toast the almonds: Lightly toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant. This enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
Segment the oranges: Carefully peel and segment the blood orange and mandarin oranges. Remove any seeds and pith to ensure a clean, vibrant presentation.
Prepare the vinaigrette: In a mixing bowl, whisk together white balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, fresh orange juice, sea salt, dijon mustard, and honey. Chill until ready to serve.
Assemble the salad base: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped kale, half of the toasted almonds, half of the sliced green onions, and the segmented mandarin oranges.
Dress the salad: Pour the prepared vinaigrette dressing over the salad base. Gently toss to ensure even coating of the dressing on all ingredients.
Plate the salad: Artfully arrange the dressed salad on individual plates or a large serving platter. Ensure an even distribution of colors and textures.
Add finishing touches: Top the salad with the remaining toasted almonds, sliced green onions, segmented blood oranges, and crumbled goat cheese. This adds visual appeal and enhances the flavor profile.
Garnish and serve: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with a few whole almonds and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Serve immediately to maintain the freshness and vibrancy of the salad.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Delicious Salad

Salad bowl: A large bowl to combine and toss all the salad ingredients together.
Mixing bowl: A medium-sized bowl to whisk together the vinaigrette dressing ingredients.
Whisk: A utensil to mix the vinaigrette ingredients until well combined.
Chef's knife: A sharp knife to chop the kale, green onions, and slice the oranges.
Cutting board: A surface to safely chop and prepare the salad ingredients.
Measuring cups: Tools to measure out the almonds, green onions, and goat cheese.
Measuring spoons: Tools to measure the ingredients for the vinaigrette dressing accurately.
Citrus juicer: A tool to extract fresh orange juice for the vinaigrette.
Refrigerator: An appliance to chill the vinaigrette until ready to serve.
Serving utensils: Tools like salad tongs or large spoons to serve the salad.

Proper Storage and Freezing Methods for Kale Salad

To store leftover kale orange salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The vinaigrette dressing can be stored separately in a sealed jar or container in the fridge.
If you want to prepare the salad ahead of time, you can wash and chop the kale and store it in a sealed bag or container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Prepare the vinaigrette dressing and store it separately in the fridge.
When ready to serve, toss the kale with the vinaigrette dressing and add the remaining ingredients, such as almonds, green onions, oranges, and goat cheese.
It's not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the kale and other ingredients may change significantly upon thawing, resulting in a soggy and unappetizing salad.
If you have leftover mandarin oranges or blood oranges, you can store them separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use them in other salads, desserts, or as a snack.

Surprising Trivia About Kale and Oranges

A random fact about this kale orange salad recipe is that kale is a nutrient-dense leafy green rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while oranges provide a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants, making this salad not only delicious but also highly nutritious.

Budget-Friendly: Making Kale Orange Salad at Home

This kale orange salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like kale, mandarin oranges, and green onions are generally affordable. Specialty items like goat cheese and white balsamic vinegar might be a bit pricier, but they are used in small quantities. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Salad Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This kale orange salad recipe is a nutritious and well-balanced dish that offers a variety of health benefits. The combination of kale, almonds, goat cheese, and citrus fruits provides a good mix of vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and fiber. Kale is a superfood packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and calcium, while almonds offer heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and vitamin E. The citrus fruits add a boost of vitamin C and natural sweetness, and the goat cheese provides a source of protein and calcium. The homemade vinaigrette dressing uses wholesome ingredients like olive oil, orange juice, and honey, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought dressings.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this salad, consider the following suggestions:

Add a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to make it a more complete meal
Swap out the goat cheese for a plant-based alternative, such as avocado or tofu, to reduce saturated fat content
Include additional colorful vegetables, like shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers, to increase the variety of vitamins and minerals
Experiment with different types of kale, such as lacinato or red kale, to explore new flavors and textures
Toast the almonds lightly to bring out their natural oils and enhance their flavor
Use freshly squeezed orange juice in the vinaigrette for optimal flavor and nutrient content

An Editor's Take on This Vibrant Salad Creation

This kale orange salad recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The curly kale provides a robust base, while the almonds add a satisfying crunch. The combination of green onions and citrus from the blood and mandarin oranges introduces a refreshing zest. The creamy goat cheese adds a touch of richness, perfectly balanced by the tangy and slightly sweet vinaigrette. The use of white balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard in the dressing elevates the overall taste. This salad is both visually appealing and nutritionally dense, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

Enhance Your Kale Orange Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine the creamy, velvety texture of butternut squash soup, perfectly seasoned with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. This warm and comforting dish pairs beautifully with the fresh and zesty notes of your kale orange salad.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Picture succulent chicken breasts marinated in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, then grilled to perfection. The smoky, citrusy flavors will complement the vibrant oranges and creamy goat cheese in your salad.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Envision crispy potato wedges tossed in olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, roasted until golden brown. These savory bites will add a delightful crunch and a touch of indulgence to your kale orange salad experience.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Honey Glazed Carrots: Think of tender carrots glazed with a sweet and sticky honey and butter mixture, then roasted until caramelized. The natural sweetness of the carrots will harmonize with the tangy vinaigrette dressing of your salad.

Cranberry Walnut Quinoa: Cranberry Walnut Quinoa: Visualize fluffy quinoa mixed with tart dried cranberries and crunchy walnuts, all tossed in a light citrus dressing. This nutrient-packed side dish will enhance the flavors and textures of your kale orange salad.

Delicious Salad Recipes Similar to This Kale Orange Combo

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Dive into a vibrant mix of roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts. This salad is dressed with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette that perfectly complements the earthy flavors of the beets.

Quinoa and Citrus Salad: A refreshing blend of fluffy quinoa, juicy citrus fruits, and crisp cucumbers. Tossed with a zesty lime vinaigrette, this salad is a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Spinach and Strawberry Salad: Experience the delightful combination of fresh spinach, sweet strawberries, and crunchy pecans. Drizzle with a poppy seed dressing for a sweet and tangy finish.

Arugula and Pear Salad: Peppery arugula pairs beautifully with sweet pears, creamy blue cheese, and toasted hazelnuts. A light honey mustard vinaigrette ties all the flavors together in this elegant salad.

Why trust this Kale Orange Salad Recipe:

This kale orange salad recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. The curly kale provides a hearty base, while the mandarin oranges and blood orange add a refreshing citrus twist. Goat cheese brings a creamy richness, and almonds offer a satisfying crunch. The vinaigrette dressing ties everything together with its balanced mix of white balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, and a hint of honey. Trust this recipe for a nutritious and delicious salad that will impress your guests.

Share your thoughts on the Kale Orange Salad Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this dish even better!

FAQ:

How do I prepare the kale for the salad?

I like to remove the tough stems and chop the kale into bite-sized pieces. Then, I massage the kale with a little bit of olive oil for a few minutes to make it more tender.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of goat cheese?

Absolutely! Feta or blue cheese would work well in this salad if you prefer a different flavor.

How can I toast the almonds for extra flavor?

I usually spread the almonds on a baking sheet and toast them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.

Can I make the vinaigrette dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the vinaigrette a day or two in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container and give it a good shake before using.

What can I use if I don’t have white balsamic vinegar?

If you don’t have white balsamic vinegar, you can use regular balsamic vinegar or even apple cider vinegar as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.