Refreshing Fresh Kale and Citrus Salad Recipe Delight
This Refreshing Fresh Kale and Citrus Salad is the perfect way to brighten up your meal with crisp kale leaves and juicy bursts of citrus. The combination of tangy oranges…
Tip: save now, cook later.This Refreshing Fresh Kale and Citrus Salad is the perfect way to brighten up your meal with crisp kale leaves and juicy bursts of citrus. The combination of tangy oranges and grapefruits with the slightly bitter kale makes every bite feel light and lively. It’s a salad that feels fresh and healthy, with a nice balance of flavors and textures that keep you coming back for more.
I love making this salad when I want something quick but special. The trick I use is to massage the kale a bit with a little olive oil and salt before adding the citrus—it softens the leaves and makes them easier to enjoy. Adding a sprinkle of nuts or seeds gives it an extra crunch that I find really satisfying.
This salad goes great as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish, but I often enjoy it all on its own for a simple lunch. It’s one of those dishes that feels fresh and bright no matter the season, and every time I make it, it reminds me of sunny days and good company around the table. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kale: Curly kale is great here because it holds up well and has a nice texture. If you prefer milder greens, try baby kale or spinach. Just remember, without massaging, kale can be tough to eat raw.
Citrus: Navel and blood oranges add sweetness and color. If you can’t find blood oranges, substitute with regular oranges or even grapefruit for a tangy twist. Fresh citrus segments make the salad juicy and bright.
Avocado: Adds creaminess and balances the citrus acidity nicely. If you need a substitute, ripe mango chunks or cucumber can offer fresh texture without the fat.
Nuts & Seeds: Sliced almonds give a satisfying crunch. Feel free to swap with toasted walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds depending on your taste or what you have on hand.
How Do You Soften Kale to Make It Less Bitter and Tough?
Kale can be chewy and strong-tasting, but massaging helps soften it and release flavors. Here’s how to do it:
- Place chopped kale in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil and a pinch of salt.
- Use your hands to rub and squeeze the leaves for 2-3 minutes until they become darker and softer.
- This breaks down fibers and makes the kale easier to eat raw.
Massaged kale blends beautifully with citrus and avocado, creating a smooth, fresh salad that’s easy to enjoy every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for tossing kale and citrus without spilling.
- Sharp chef’s knife – makes slicing citrus and chopping kale quick and easy.
- Citrus peeler or paring knife – helps remove citrus peel cleanly for nice segments.
- Small whisk or fork – for mixing the dressing ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring spoons – to get your olive oil, lemon juice, and zest just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy, creamy touch that pairs well with citrus.
- Include toasted pecans or walnuts for a richer nutty flavor instead of almonds.
- Try adding cooked quinoa or farro to make it a more filling meal with extra texture.
- Mix in pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries for a sweet pop and color contrast.
Refreshing Fresh Kale and Citrus Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad:
- 6 cups fresh kale, washed and chopped (curly kale preferred)
- 1 large navel orange, peeled and segmented
- 1 blood orange, peeled and segmented
- 1/2 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds (or other nuts/seeds for crunch)
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh kale and citrus salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Massaging the kale softens it quickly, and assembling the salad goes fast. You can serve right away or chill it for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors blend nicely.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Massage the Kale:
Put the chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt. Use your hands to massage the kale leaves for 2-3 minutes until they soften and turn a darker green. This makes the kale easier to eat and tastier.
2. Add Citrus and Avocado:
Add the peeled, segmented navel and blood orange pieces to the kale. Gently fold in the diced avocado and thinly sliced red onion so they mix without breaking apart.
3. Make and Add the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, lemon juice, orange zest (if using), and some salt and pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss lightly so everything is evenly coated.
4. Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the salad for a crunchy finish. Serve right away or chill for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavors come together. Enjoy your bright and healthy kale and citrus salad!
Can I Use Frozen Kale for This Salad?
It’s best to use fresh kale for this salad, as frozen kale can be too soft and watery once thawed. If you only have frozen kale, thaw it completely, drain any excess water, and gently press out moisture before massaging and adding to the salad.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
This salad is freshest when eaten the same day, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The kale will continue to soften, and the avocado may brown, so consider adding avocado just before serving if possible.
Can I Substitute Other Citrus Fruits?
Absolutely! You can substitute blood oranges and navel oranges with grapefruit, tangerines, or a mix of your favorite citrus fruits. Just peel and segment them similarly for the best texture and flavor.
Is There a Vegan Option for the Salad?
This recipe is naturally vegan! Just ensure any nuts or seeds you add as toppings are unsalted and uncoated for a perfect vegan-friendly salad.
