There’s something truly delightful about discovering a fresh twist on a salad that never fails to impress. When I first encountered Kalettes™—a delightful cross between kale and Brussels sprouts—I knew I had stumbled upon a versatile ingredient that could elevate my salads to new heights. Bright, crunchy, and simply bursting with flavor, these little gems are the star of today’s dish: a Quick & Easy Gluten-Free Kalettes™ Salad with Goat Cheese.
Imagine a vibrant bowl of verdant greens, tossed with the creamy tang of goat cheese and a zingy balsamic vinaigrette that dances on your taste buds. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a refreshing side at your next gathering, this salad combines health and flavor in an effortlessly chic manner. Whether you’re in need of a light lunch or a colorful accompaniment to your dinner, this Kalettes™ salad is here to become your new favorite. Let’s dive into this healthy and satisfying recipe that guarantees a crisp crunch in every bite!
Why will you love this Kalettes Salad recipe?
Vibrant, Delicious: This salad bursts with color and flavor, making it an eye-catching addition to any meal.
Nutritious Benefits: Packed with vitamins A and C, it’s not just tasty; it’s a guilt-free nutrition bomb!
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Base: You can easily customize it with nuts or swap in your favorite cheese for endless variations.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The creamy goat cheese paired with tangy balsamic dressing makes for a combination everyone loves.
Elevate your meals with this healthy indulgence that’s sure to impress. If you’re curious about more salad ideas, check out my delicious salad recipes for inspiration!
Kalettes Salad Recipe Ingredients
For the Salad
• Kalettes™ – A unique blend of kale and Brussels sprouts, best when fresh; can substitute with kale or Brussels sprouts.
• Goat Cheese – Adds a creamy, tangy flavor that elevates the dish; feta cheese can also work well.
For the Dressing
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and richness; opt for a high-quality oil for the best taste.
• Balsamic Vinegar – Provides acidity and depth; can substitute with red wine vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Ready to indulge in this delightful Kalettes salad recipe? Let’s get started cooking!
How to Make Kalettes Salad Recipe
Prepare the Kalettes™: Rinse and dry the Kalettes™ thoroughly, then chop them coarsely. You’ll want them bite-sized for that perfect mix of crunch and tenderness.
Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar until they emulsify. This should only take about 30 seconds to achieve a smooth, velvety dressing.
Combine Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, toss the chopped Kalettes™ with the dressing, ensuring every leaf is coated. Gently mix in the crumbled goat cheese for a creamy touch that compliments the greens beautifully.
Optional: Garnish with toasted nuts for an extra crunch and delightful flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Kalettes Salad Variations
Get creative and make this salad your own with these delicious twists!
Nuts & Seeds: Toss in sliced almonds or sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch and extra nutrients that brightens every bite. The addition of nuts not only enhances texture but also brings in delightful flavor contrasts.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap goat cheese for creamy avocado to create a rich, dairy-free alternative that’s just as luscious and satisfying, perfect for those avoiding dairy.
Herbal Twist: Add a handful of fresh herbs like basil or dill for an aromatic boost that elevates the freshness of the salad, bringing bright new notes to your dish.
Fruit Fusion: Mix in diced apples or sliced strawberries for a touch of sweetness that complements the tangy dressing beautifully, turning every forkful into a delightful experience.
Roasted Veggies: Incorporate roasted beets or carrots for a warm, earthy flavor and a bit of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the crisp Kalettes™, giving the dish a delightful contrast.
Citrus Zing: Drizzle some fresh lemon or orange juice over the salad for an extra pop of acidity that will brighten all the flavors and lend a refreshing twist.
Protein Boost: Top the salad with grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal that transforms this salad into a fulfilling entrée, great for lunch or dinner.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a spicy version that will tantalize your taste buds and add an exciting kick to the creamy goat cheese.
With these variations, your possibilities are endless! Feel free to mix and match to perfectly tailor this Kalettes salad recipe to your taste.
Make Ahead Options
This Gluten-Free Kalettes™ Salad with Goat Cheese is a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time during busy weekdays! You can prepare the Kalettes™ by rinsing, drying, and chopping them up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The balsamic vinaigrette can also be mixed and kept in a separate jar for up to 3 days—just shake well before using. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply toss the prepped Kalettes™ with the dressing and gently fold in the goat cheese for a salad that tastes freshly made, with all its vibrant flavors intact and ready to impress!
What to Serve with Gluten-Free Kalettes™ Salad with Goat Cheese?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that balance and enhance this vibrant salad’s flavors.
Grilled Lemon Chicken: The zesty, charred notes of grilled chicken perfectly complement the tangy goat cheese in the salad, creating a harmonious plate.
Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain adds a hearty texture while remaining gluten-free, rounding out the meal with wholesome goodness.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the salad’s tanginess, offering a comforting and nutritious carb option.
Crusty Whole-Grain Bread: Enjoying a slice of freshly baked bread provides a nice crunch and is perfect for mopping up salad dressing.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the fresh flavors, making every bite and sip refreshingly delightful.
Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a mix of seasonal fruits adds a sweet touch, balancing the savory elements of the salad.
Herb-Infused Water: Elevate hydration with a refreshing blend of mint and cucumber in your water, offering a vibrant pairing that complements the salad’s freshness.
Each pairing adds a unique flair, ensuring that your meal is flavorful and memorable!
How to Store and Freeze Kalettes Salad Recipe
Fridge: Store any leftover Kalettes™ salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days to maintain flavor and texture.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the salad at room temperature, as it can wilt quickly. If serving outdoors, keep it chilled until ready to serve.
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold. If refrigerating has made it a bit soggy, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh greens and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for Kalettes™ salad, as fresh textures will be lost. Instead, prepare it fresh when you’re ready to eat!
Expert Tips for Kalettes Salad Recipe
- Freshness Matters: Use fresh Kalettes™ for the best texture and flavor. Whenever possible, choose vibrant, crisp greens to enhance the salad’s appeal.
- Room Temperature Cheese: Crumble goat cheese at room temperature to make mixing easier. This way, it blends beautifully into the salad without clumping.
- Dress Gradually: Avoid dressing the salad all at once; add the vinaigrette incrementally to prevent sogginess and ensure every bite is perfectly flavored.
- Add Crunch: Experiment with nuts like sliced almonds or walnuts for added texture. They not only enhance flavor but also provide a satisfying crunch in your Kalettes salad recipe.
- Chill Before Serving: If time allows, let the salad chill for a bit before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making every dish memorable.
Kalettes Salad Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting Kalettes™?
Absolutely! When choosing Kalettes™, look for vibrant green leaves that are crispy and firm. Avoid any with yellowing or dark spots, as these indicate age. Fresh Kalettes™ should have a slight sweetness and a pleasant earthy aroma, ensuring you’re getting the best flavor for your salad.
How long will leftovers from the Kalettes salad keep?
You can store any leftover Kalettes™ salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. I recommend consuming it within this time frame to ensure the greens stay crisp and the flavor remains fresh. Just give it a gentle toss before serving again!
Can I freeze Kalettes salad?
Freezing is not recommended for the Kalettes™ salad. The delicate texture of the greens will become mushy once thawed. Instead, it’s best to prepare it fresh when you’re ready to enjoy it, maximizing both flavor and texture.
What should I do if my salad dressing is too thick?
Very! If you find that your dressing has become too thick, simply whisk in a tablespoon of water or additional balsamic vinegar until you achieve your desired consistency. This will keep the dressing pourable and allow it to coat your Kalettes™ beautifully without being overpowering.
Are Kalettes™ safe for pets?
Yes! Kalettes™ are generally safe for pets, particularly in small amounts. However, always consult your veterinarian to ensure new foods are suitable for your specific furry friend. Keep in mind that some animals may react differently to certain vegetables, so moderation is key.
Is there a dairy-free option for the Kalettes salad?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute the goat cheese with avocado for a creamy texture that’s dairy-free. Simply slice or cube ripe avocado and gently fold it into your salad right before serving, adding both rich flavor and healthy fats.
Delicious Kalettes Salad Recipe with Creamy Goat Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse and dry the Kalettes™ thoroughly, then chop them coarsely.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar until emulsified.
- In a large salad bowl, toss the chopped Kalettes™ with the dressing, and mix in the crumbled goat cheese.
- Optional: Garnish with toasted nuts for extra crunch.