• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Kalefornia Kravings

  • Home
  • About Me
    • About Me
    • Press
  • Blog
    • Recipe Round Ups
  • Recipes
    • Appetizer
    • Main Dish
      • Beef
      • Chicken/Turkey
      • Seafood
      • Meatless
      • Breakfast
    • Pasta
    • Salad
    • Side Dish
    • Dessert
    • Snack
    • Spice Mixes, Sauces, Marinades & Dips
  • Shop My Favorites
  • Work with Me
  • Navigation Menu: Social Icons

    • Email
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest

Mixed Berry Kale Salad with Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing

March 31, 2021 by Caitlin Monson Leave a Comment

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Sweet, creamy, crunchy and so refreshing too! This delicious kale salad is loaded with fresh fruit and topped with the best maple candied pecans!

Tender kale is tossed with strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and goat cheese to make this delicious spring salad!

How do you feel about fruit on salads? Honestly, I used to think it was so weird. That was until I tried my first kale salad (which was loaded with fruit) and my life was changed forever! Nw I can’t even imagine NOT adding fruit to a salad… or at least a kale salad anyways. 😉 That’s why this mixed berry kale salad with lemon poppy seed dressing is definitely becoming one of my favorites and I can see it being on repeat all spring and summer long! It’s sweet, refreshing and can even be made a head of time too! (Which makes it perfect or all those potlucks and bbq’s we’ve got coming up too!)

Ingredients

  • Kale: I love using green kale for this salad becasue it has great flavor and looks so pretty with your berries too! (Look for kale that has sturdy “stiffer” leaves that aren’t wilted.)
  • Strawberries, blackberries & blueberries: Adds so much sweetness and color to your salad! (Look for berries that are slightly firm to the touch for the best results.)
  • Goat cheese: Adds a creamy element to your salad that balances out the sweetness from your fruit and pecans. (You can also repace it with feta too!)
  • Candied pecans: Gives your a nice little crunch while also providing a ton of sweetness too! (See below for my homemade candied pecan recipe or you can use your favorite store bought brand.)
  • Lemon poppy seed dressing: It’s sweet and tangy which helps to tie your salad together perfectly!
A simple spring and summer salad made with fresh seasonal fruit, goat cheese and the best homemade candied pecans!

Massaging your kale for this salad

This is the most important step for making your salad! Not only does it help to soften your kale leaves so they’re easier to eat, but it also brings out it’s mild flavor and turns it a bright pretty green color too!🤗

  1. Cut your kale leaves off the stem and chop them into bite sized pieces.
  2. Then drizzle 1 tsp of olive oil and the juice from 1/2 a lemon over the chopped leaves. (Sometimes I’ll use an oil spray if I have that instead. You just need to use a few squirts.)
  3. Then rub the kale leaves together with your hands to fully incorporate the oil and lemon juice throughout. Do this for 5 minutes. (The kale should begin to soften and turn a bright vibrant green color. You’ll also notice that the amount of kale you have will start to “shrink” too.)
  4. At this point, the kale can be stored in the fridge until your ready to use it. It should last for up to 1 week.
This mixed berry kale salad is perfect to serve for any outdoor party, potluck or bbq this year! It's sweet, creamy and so refreshing too!

How to make the best maple candied pecans

All I can say is if you haven’t made these maple candied pecans yet, then you 100% NEED to loves! They’re soo good and so easy you’ll never go back to store bought again!

  • 1 cup pecans
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  1. Mix your pecans, maple syrup and salt together in a pot and bring it to a boil over medium heat.
  2. Once the syrup starts to boil, turn the burner down to medium-low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. (Make sure to stir them occasionally so they don’t burn. The pecans and syrup will go through 3 phases before they’re done: 1) The maple syrup will be very “liquidy”. 2) A much thicker syrup starts to form. 3) The syrup will start to evaporate and crystalized onto your pecans.)
  3. Once the syrup starts to crystalize, pour your pecans onto a tray that’s been lined with parchment paper and spread them out to cool completely. Once they’re completely cool you can store them in a plastic container for up to 1 week.
This fruity kale salad is the best side dish for spring! You can easily make it ahead of time and itis always a crowd favorite too!

How to make a mixed berry and kale salad

  1. Add your massaged kale to a large bowl.
  2. Then add your berries and goat and toss with your desired amount of dressing.
  3. Top with your candied pecans right before serving!

It doesn’t get any easier than that right?!

How to store your kale salad

One of my favorite things about kale salads is that they can be easily prepped in advance and are so perfect for leftovers too. That’s because the longer the kale sits after being massaged, the more tender and flavorful it becomes. (Sometimes I’ll purposely make up the salad the night before I’m planning to eat so it has all night to soften and become even more delicious. 😉 ) All I do is mix my massaged kale and berries together in a bowl, seal it and keep it stored in the fridge. Then I have my goat cheese already crumbled, dressing made up and pecans cooked and cooled. (I’ve found it best to keep these items separate so the salad doesn’t become too soggy.) Then just toss everything together when you’re ready to eat! Simple as that! 🙂

I hope you all enjoy this mixed berry kale salad just as much as we do!

More recipes you might like:
  • Citrus & Pomegranate Kale Salad
  • Summer Peach & Blueberry Kale Salad
  • Winter Fruit Salad with Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
  • Easy Avocado, Tomato & Mozzarella Salad
  • Pizza Pasta Salad

[Made one of my recipes? Make sure to tag my social media @kalefornia_kravings – I love seeing what you create!]

Tender kale is tossed with strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and goat cheese to make this delicious spring salad!
Print Recipe Pin It!

Mixed Berry Kale Salad with Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing

Fresh seasonal berries, tender kale and creamy goat cheese are all tossed in a light and tangy dressing and topped with the best candied pecans! It's so refreshing and the perfect dish to serve for a crowd!
Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Total Time30 mins
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American, Gluten free
Keyword: blackberries, blueberries, candied pecans, dressing, kale, lemon, mixed berry, poppy seed, salad, strawberries
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Caitlin Monson

Ingredients

For the candied pecans:

  • 1 cup raw pecans
  • ¼ cup pure maple syrup
  • ¼ tsp salt

For the lemon poppy seed dressing:

  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 Tbsp honey
  • 2 tsp olive oil (I like using extra light)
  • 1 tsp poppy seeds

For the kale salad:

  • 1 bunch of kale, leaves cut off the stem & chopped
  • 1 cup strawberries, halved or quartered
  • 1 cup blackberries
  • ½ cup blueberries
  • ¼ cup plain goat cheese, crumbled

Instructions

To make the candied pecans:

  • Mix your pecans, maple syrup and salt together in a pot and bring it to a boil over medium heat.
  • Once the syrup starts to boil, turn the burner down to medium-low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. (Make sure to stir them occasionally so they don't burn. The pecans and syrup will go through 3 phases before they're done: 1) The maple syrup will be very "liquidy". 2) A much thicker syrup starts to form. 3) The syrup will start to evaporate and crystalized onto your pecans.)
  • Once the syrup starts to crystalize, pour your pecans onto a tray that's been lined with parchment paper and spread them out to cool completely. Once they're completely cool you can store them in a plastic container for up to 1 week.

To make the lemon poppy seed dressing:

  • Whisk all of your ingredients together in a bowl or jar and store it in the fridge until you're ready to eat.

To make the kale salad:

  • Place your kale leaves in a large bowl and drizzle 1 tsp of olive oil and ½ of a lemon over the top. Massage the kale with your hands for at least 5 minutes or until it begins to soften. (Your kale will also turn a bright green color and the amount will slightly shrink down when it's ready.)
  • Once massaged, add your berries and goat cheese to kale and toss the salad with your desired amount of dressing. Top it with your candied pecans right before serving.

  • Share
  • Tweet

Filed Under: Salad, Side Dish Tagged With: blackberries, blueberries, candied pecans, gluten free, goat cheese, kale salad, lemon poppy seed dressing, mixed berry, spring, strawberries

Previous Post: « Cookies & Cream Oreo Blondies (Gluten free)
Next Post: Black Bean, Mango & Avocado Salad »

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Meet Caitlin

Hey there!

I’m Caitlin and I’m here to simplify California cuisine! I’m just your every day Cali girl with a huge passion for cooking and sharing simple healthy eats with a few sweet treats.

Welcome to my kitchen!

Recent Posts

  • The Best Potluck Salad Recipes
  • Black Bean, Mango & Avocado Salad
  • Mixed Berry Kale Salad with Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing
  • Cookies & Cream Oreo Blondies (Gluten free)
  • Tropical Dragon Fruit Smoothie

Let’s get social!

CILANTRO LIME PASTA SALAD! Save it, make it & than CILANTRO LIME PASTA SALAD! Save it, make it & thank me later!🤗
.
I can’t quite put my finger on it, but there’s just something so nostalgic about pasta salad for me. And this one always reminds me of summers spent with my family.🥰 It’s quick & easy, tangy, creamy & has just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting!🕺🏼 (Plus the colors just pop in this bowl too & we all know how much I love my colorful meals!😉)
.
Hope you’re all having a great Tuesday loves!😊💕
.
Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad🥑
8 oz. bow tie pasta, cooked & cooked (use gluten free if needed)
1 1/2 cups corn, cut off the cob (can be fresh or frozen)
1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, sliced
1/2 of a red onion, chopped
2 Tbsp cilantro, chopped
1-2 small avocados, diced
.
Cilantro Lime Dressing: Blend together 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt + 1/4 cup lime juice + 1/4 cup cilantro + 2 garlic cloves + 1/2 tsp sat + 1/8-1/4 tsp cayenne
.
1. Add all of your salad ingredients to a bowl & toss it with your desired amount of dressing. Keep it chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to eat! (It’s also amazing with a little cotija on top too!😉)
.
.
.
#kaleforniakravings #pastasalad #healthydinner #dinnerideas #easydinner #lunchideas #easylunch #mealprep #mealprepideas #healthyeats #healthyfood #wholefoods #glutenfreerecipes #dairyfree #huffposttaste #thekitchn #foodblogger #feedfeed #easyrecipes #f52grams #healthyrecipes #easymeals #realfood #quickmeals #healthyfoodshare #simplemeals #simplefood #goodmoodfood #healthyfoodporn @thefeedfeed @thekitchn
Sweet & spicy JERK CHICKEN KABOBS! Because I’m c Sweet & spicy JERK CHICKEN KABOBS! Because I’m craving all those good summery eats!🤗
.
I feel like we’ve been grilling up a storm over here lately & these kabobs are always one of our favorites! They’re only 5 ingredients, are so easy to make & taste just like summer on a stick!😎 (Plus they’re the one thing I actually feel comfortable grilling too so that’s a huge win in my book!😉)
.
Hope you’re all having a great Friday loves!😊💕
(Full recipe & tips are on my website. Link in bio⬆️)
.
Jerk Chicken Kabobs🍍
1 1/2 lbs. chicken breast, cut into 1 inch cubes
3 Tbsp @mccormickspice jerk seasoning
Pineapple, cut into cubes
2 red bell peppers, cut into cubes
1 red onion, cut into cubes
.
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat & spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Add your chicken pieces & seasoning to a plastic bag & shake it until the chicken is fully coated. Then prepare your skewers.
3. Once the grill is hot, place your kabobs on the grill & cook for 15-20 minutes, turning once half way through. Serve immediately!
.
.
.
#kaleforniakravings #chickenskewers #kabobs #healthydinner #dinnerideas #easydinner #easymeals #easyrecipes #glutenfreerecipes #healthyeats #cleaneats #wholefoods #chickenrecipes #chickendinner #healthyfood #feedfeed #foodblogger #healthyfoodrecipes #familydinner #f52grams #healthyrecipes #glutenfreefood #realfood #quickdinner #healthyfoodshare #huffposttaste #thekitchn #goodmoodfood #healthyfoodporn @thefeedfeed
You know what your Wednesday needs? Some BBQ CHICK You know what your Wednesday needs? Some BBQ CHICKEN TORTILLA PIZZAS!🤗
.
These are always a favorite of mine whenever I’m in the mood for a quick & easy lunch that’s super tasty too!😍 They’re soo good, cook up in minutes & you can mix & match any toppings you want! (Plus they’re easily made gluten free & dairy free too!) 
Now who’s ready to dig in?!🙋🏼‍♀️🙋🏼‍♀️
.
Hope you’re all having the best Wednesday loves!😊💕
(Full recipe & tips are on my website. Link in bio⬆️)
.
BBQ Chicken Tortilla Pizzas🍕
Flour tortillas (I used @sietefoods almond flour tortillas)
Bbq sauce
Rotisserie chicken, shredded
Shredded mozzarella (use dairy free cheese if needed)
Red onion, sliced thin
Cilantro, chopped
.
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees & place a cookie sheet in the oven while it heats up. Once it’s ready, place your tortillas on the hot sheet & bake them for 4-5 minutes. 
2. Then mix some bbq sauce with your shredded chicken & set it aside. When your tortillas are crispy, spread some bbq sauce over the top of each tortilla & layer them with cheese, bbq chicken & red onion. Bake for 7-10 minutes are until the cheese has melted.
3. Sprinkle some cilantro over the top, cut & serve!
.
.
.
#kaleforniakravings #bbqchicken #tortillapizza #healthypizza #healthydinner #dinnerideas #easyrecipes #easymeals #healthylunch #healthyeats #lunchideas #wholefoods #glutenfreerecipes #glutenfreefood #huffposttaste #eatrealfood #foodblogger #thekitchn #quickmeals #healthyfood #healthyrecipes #weeknightdinner #feedfeed #quickdinner #healthyfoodshare #thenewhealthy #todayfood #goodmoodfood #healthyfoodporn @thefeedfeed @thekitchn @huffposttaste
Raise your hand if you love mangos!🙋🏼‍♀️ Then you’re going to absolutely love this tasty BLACK BEAN, MANGO & AVOCADO SALAD!😍 [sponsored]
.
I feel like I’ve been on a “lettuce free” salad kick lately & this baby here just might be a new favorite! It’s so refreshing, easy to make & full of so many different flavors & textures too! (Plus it doubles as a dip if you serve it with chips!😉) But what’s even better?! The fact that it’s made with all organic ingredients that I picked up from my local @sprouts - which also makes it the perfect dish for this year’s upcoming Earth Day too!🤗
(One of the easiest ways we can help take care of our Earth is to use fresh & organic ingredients which is why @sprouts is always my go-to store!)
.
I hope you’re having a great Monday loves!😊💕
(Full recipe & tips are on my website. Link in bio⬆️)
.
Black Bean, Mango & Avocado Salad🥭
1 15oz can black beans, drained & rinsed
1-2 mangos, diced
2 avocados, diced
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen & thawed)
1/2 of a red onion, chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
3-4 limes, juiced
1/2 tsp chili powder
Salt & pepper, to taste
.
1. Add all of your ingredients to a bowl & toss in your lime juice. Season with salt & pepper to taste & chill for 1 hour before serving. 
(If meal prepping, omit the avocado & add it right before you’re ready to eat!)
.
.
.
#kaleforniakravings #lovesprouts #sproutspartner #blackbeansalad #healthysalad #easyrecipes #lunchideas #healthydinner #dinnerideas #healthyeats #healthyfood #dinnerrecipes #glutenfreerecipes #glutenfreefood #dairyfree #todayfood #foodblogger #feedfeed #saladbowl #mealprep #healthyrecipes #saladlover #realfood #easymeals #healthyfoodshare #easydinner #huffposttaste #goodmoodfood #healthyfoodporn
Show More! Follow Me!

 

Archives

  • April 2021
  • March 2021
  • February 2021
  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • July 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018

Copyright © 2021 Kalefornia Kravings on the Foodie Pro Theme