This strawberry kale salad recipe combines tender kale, sweet strawberries, toasted pecans, creamy goat cheese, and a tangy homemade balsamic vinaigrette. It's a fresh, colorful, and satisfying salad perfect for lunch, dinner, meal prep, or summer gatherings.
Remove the tough stems from the kale and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
Place the kale in a large bowl, drizzle with a small amount of olive oil, and massage the leaves for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Add the strawberries, goat cheese, toasted pecans, and red onion to the bowl with the kale.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and crisp texture.
Notes
Massage the kale before assembling to soften the leaves and improve texture. For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup and omit the goat cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Store dressing separately and toss just before serving for best results.