Looking for a salad that’s bursting with flavor and unexpected twists? Dive into our Berry and Bacon Kale Salad with Blackberry Jam Vinaigrette! This vibrant dish combines the earthy goodness of kale with the sweet juiciness of mixed berries and the savory crunch of crispy bacon, all drizzled with a luscious blackberry jam dressing that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a light lunch or a stunning side dish at your next gathering, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also a delightful way to elevate your salad game. Trust us, once you try this unique combination, you’ll be hooked!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 1/2 cup mixed berries (blackberries, blueberries)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup blackberry jam
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the ingredients. Wash the kale thoroughly under cold water, then chop it into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl.
- Next, rinse the mixed berries (blackberries and blueberries) under cold water and set them aside to drain.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it is crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- In the same skillet, you can quickly sauté the sliced red onion in the remaining bacon fat for about 2-3 minutes until they become slightly softened. This step is optional but adds a nice flavor to the salad.
- In a small bowl, prepare the blackberry jam vinaigrette. Combine the 1/4 cup of blackberry jam with 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Whisk together until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a teaspoon of water to help thin it out.
- Now, it's time to assemble the salad. In the bowl with the chopped kale, add the mixed berries, crumbled bacon, and sautéed red onion.
- Drizzle the blackberry jam vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the kale is well-coated with the dressing.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Mix again to incorporate the seasoning.
- Serve the salad immediately, garnishing with a few extra berries or bacon on top if desired. Enjoy your Berry and Bacon Kale Salad!
Tips
- Kale Prep: Make sure to massage the kale leaves after chopping to help soften them and enhance their flavor. This step makes a significant difference in texture and taste.
- Bacon Alternatives: If you prefer a healthier option, consider using turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative, which can still provide that satisfying crunch.
- Berry Variations: Feel free to mix and match your berries! Strawberries, raspberries, or even sliced peaches can add a delightful twist to this salad.
- Dressing Consistency: If your blackberry jam is particularly thick, adding a teaspoon of water can help achieve the perfect vinaigrette consistency for easy drizzling.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the salad components in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just combine everything and add the dressing right before serving to keep the kale fresh and crisp.
- Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch, garnish your salad with whole berries or additional crumbled bacon on top before serving. It adds a beautiful visual appeal!
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
