There’s something wonderfully satisfying about a dish that comes together in mere minutes yet delivers big on flavor. Imagine your favorite greens—crisp, vibrant Kalettes™—sizzling in a pan, releasing their unique aroma while you toss in luscious goat cheese that melts ever so slightly. This quick and easy Kalettes salad recipe transforms a simple ingredient list into a delightful culinary experience that not only keeps you healthy but also impresses your family and friends.
Whether you’re looking for a nutritious side for grilled meats or a standout dish to brighten up your weeknight dinners, this salad is your answer. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll enjoy a colorful, gluten-free dish that balances the earthy flavors of sautéed greens with the creamy tang of goat cheese, all finished with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for that perfect zing. Ready to bring a burst of freshness to your table? Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe!
Why is this Kalettes Salad recipe so amazing?
Simplicity at Its Finest: This quick and easy dish comes together in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Vibrant Colors: The striking green of Kalettes™ shines when sautéed, making your plate visually appealing.
Creamy Indulgence: Melted goat cheese adds a luscious texture, elevating the salad’s flavor profile.
Healthy Delight: Packed with vitamins A and C, this gluten-free gem supports your health while satisfying cravings.
Versatile Serving: Serve as a standout side for grilled meats or toss with nuts and cranberries for a delightful twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Impress friends and family with this unique blend of earthy greens and tangy cheese!
Kalettes Salad Recipe Ingredients
For the Salad
- Kalettes™ – The star ingredient provides a delightful crunch and can be switched with kale or Brussels sprouts for a similar taste.
- Goat Cheese – This creamy cheese adds a burst of tanginess; if you prefer a different flavor, feta makes a nice substitute.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Perfect for cooking and enhancing flavors; avocado oil is a great alternative for a higher smoke point.
- Balsamic Vinegar – It adds the perfect acidity to balance the dish; try white balsamic for a milder taste.
Optional Add-ins
- Nuts (Almonds or Walnuts) – Add these for extra crunch and a nutty flavor that takes the salad up a notch.
- Dried Cranberries or Pomegranate Seeds – Toss these in for a pop of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of the salad.
How to Make Kalettes Salad Recipe
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Prep Kalettes: Rinse the Kalettes™ under cool water to remove any dirt. Trim the ends as needed, ensuring they are fresh and vibrant, perfect for sautéing.
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Heat Oil: In a large skillet, warm the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. This ensures the oil is hot enough to sauté the Kalettes™ effectively.
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Sauté Kalettes: Add the Kalettes™ to the pan. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn bright green and become tender yet still crisp.
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Add Cheese: Stir in the crumbled goat cheese and drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the sautéed Kalettes™. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt slightly for extra creaminess.
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Serve Warm: Once the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your Kalettes salad warm, garnished as desired.
Optional: Sprinkling some toasted almonds on top adds a delightful crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Kalettes Salad recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this delightful salad with these fun twists that can elevate the flavor or cater to dietary needs!
- Nutty Crunch: Add roasted almonds or walnuts for an irresistible crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the creamy cheese.
- Fruit Sweetness: Toss in some dried cranberries or fresh pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory notes.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy touch to invigorate the palate.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic lift and vibrant freshness that brightens every bite.
- Cheesy Variation: Swap goat cheese with feta or even a sharp cheddar for a unique flavor twist that brings a different personality to the salad.
- Grain Boost: Add cooked quinoa or farro for a hearty texture and an extra dose of nutrition, making this salad even more satisfying.
- Zesty Lemon: Drizzle fresh lemon juice on top just before serving for a zesty punch that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Avocado Creaminess: Slice ripe avocado into the salad for added creaminess and healthy fats that enrich the dish beautifully.
Storage Tips for Kalettes Salad Recipe
Fridge: Store any leftover Kalettes salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the sautéed Kalettes™ without cheese for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Reheating: For the best taste and texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, avoiding the microwave to prevent sogginess.
Enjoy Fresh: This Kalettes salad recipe is at its best when fresh, so try to prepare only what you’ll eat in a sitting!
Make Ahead Options
These Kalettes salad recipe preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can wash and trim the Kalettes™ up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can crumble the goat cheese and store it separately for the best quality. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped Kalettes™ as directed and mix in the goat cheese and balsamic vinegar. This method not only saves precious time on busy weeknights but also ensures you enjoy that delightful crunch and creamy texture just as if you made it fresh!
Expert Tips for Kalettes Salad Recipe
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Don’t Overcook: Ensure Kalettes™ are tender yet crisp; overcooking can dull their vibrant color and crunchy texture.
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Choose the Right Pan: Use a non-stick skillet for even cooking and to prevent the Kalettes™ from sticking, ensuring a flawless sauté.
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Taste Before Salting: Goat cheese can be salty on its own, so taste the dish before adding any extra salt to enhance flavors without overpowering.
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Swap Ingredients: If Kalettes™ aren’t available, kale or Brussels sprouts make excellent substitutes in this Kalettes salad recipe.
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Add Texture: Incorporate nuts like almonds or walnuts for a delightful crunch, and consider adding dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness.
What to Serve with Kalettes Salad Recipe?
Elevate your dining experience by discovering delightful pairings that enhance the vibrant flavors of this quick and easy salad.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, grilled chicken creates a protein-packed meal while complementing the fresh textures of Kalettes™.
- Lemon Garlic Quinoa: The bright citrus notes and lightness of quinoa make for a healthy, filling base underneath the salad, merging flavors beautifully.
- Roasted Salmon: The rich, buttery flavor of salmon pairs perfectly with the tangy goat cheese, offering a satisfying contrast to the greens.
- Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts: Their sweet and savory notes echo the balsamic in the salad, bringing harmony and an enticing sweetness.
- Crusty Artisan Bread: A warm slice adds a delightful crunch and serves as the perfect vessel for scooping up those creamy Kalettes and goat cheese.
- Chardonnay: A crisp, chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the dish’s fresh, earthy flavors while adding a touch of elegance to your meal.
- Fresh Berry Tart: End your meal with a light and fruity dessert; the sweetness of berries against the creamy cheese echoes the dish’s flavors.
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple side salad with a zesty vinaigrette can provide an extra layer of freshness, balancing the richness of the goat cheese.
- Stuffed Peppers: Hearty stuffed peppers bring a comforting element to the table while presenting an artful contrast to the lightness of your Kalettes.
- Sparkling Water with Mint: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate, making every bite of the salad feel fresh and engaging.
Kalettes Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe and fresh Kalettes™?
Absolutely! When choosing Kalettes™, look for vibrant green heads without any dark spots or wilting. Fresh Kalettes™ should feel firm to the touch. If you’re substituting, opt for kale or Brussels sprouts that are equally crisp and bright.
What’s the best way to store leftover Kalettes salad?
Very! If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to let them cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation that can make the salad soggy. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to restore that delightful texture.
Can I freeze Kalettes salad, and how?
Of course! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the sautéed Kalettes™ without cheese for up to 1 month. First, allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet for a quick, tasty meal.
What should I do if my Kalettes™ are too soft after cooking?
Don’t worry—this can happen! If your Kalettes™ turn out too soft, they were likely overcooked. Next time, watch the cooking time closely, aiming for 5-7 minutes to keep them tender yet crisp. If you still want to salvage them, toss the overcooked Kalettes™ in a salad or alongside grains to add a pleasant texture contrast.
Is this Kalettes salad recipe safe for those with allergies?
Absolutely! This dish is gluten-free, making it a great option for gluten-sensitive diets. However, keep in mind that goat cheese is a dairy product, so those with dairy allergies might want to substitute it with a plant-based cheese option or simply omit it. Always check label ingredients for allergen information.
Kalettes Salad Recipe with Creamy Goat Cheese Delight
Equipment
- - Large skillet
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 8 oz Kalettes™ Can substitute with kale or Brussels sprouts.
- 4 oz Goat Cheese Feta makes a nice substitute.
- 2 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Avocado oil is a great alternative.
- 2 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar White balsamic is a milder option.
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup Nuts (Almonds or Walnuts) Add for extra crunch.
- 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries or Pomegranate Seeds For a pop of sweetness.
Instructions
How to Make Kalettes Salad Recipe
- Rinse the Kalettes™ under cool water to remove any dirt and trim the ends.
- In a large skillet, warm the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the Kalettes™ to the pan and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until bright green and tender.
- Stir in crumbled goat cheese and drizzle balsamic vinegar over the sautéed Kalettes™, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Serve your Kalettes salad warm, garnished as desired.