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Salad • American

Kale Citrus Salad with Grilled Lemon Basil Dressing Recipe

Get ready for fresh flavors in this Kale Citrus Salad! Juicy grapefruit and blood oranges, lemon dressing massaged into chopped kale with creamy goat cheese, savory shallots, and sweet honey drizzle.

4.8 from 170 votes
35 mins
Total Time
4
servings
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Kale Citrus Salad with Grilled Lemon Basil Dressing

How to Make the Best Kale Citrus Salad with Grilled Lemon Basil Dressing

This Kale Citrus Salad with Grilled Lemon Basil Dressing is a stunning celebration of fresh, bright flavors that practically sing on your plate. The combination of tender massaged kale, juicy citrus, and a zesty homemade dressing creates the perfect balance of health and indulgence. This is the kind of salad that feels elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a weeknight lunch.

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the grilled lemon dressing—charring the meyer lemons creates a subtle caramelized sweetness that perfectly complements the peppery kale and tart citrus. Meanwhile, the caramelized shallots add a sophisticated depth, while the creamy goat cheese and buttery avocado make every bite feel a little bit luxurious. The fresh basil and honey drizzle bring everything together in perfect harmony.

Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian main course or an impressive side dish, this salad delivers on both taste and nutrition. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the kale and citrus, while the olive oil and avocado provide healthy fats that help your body absorb all those good nutrients. Serve it fresh and watch your guests come back for more!

Kale Citrus Salad with Grilled Lemon Basil Dressing

Kale Citrus Salad with Grilled Lemon Basil Dressing

Get ready for fresh flavors in this Kale Citrus Salad! Juicy grapefruit and blood oranges, lemon dressing massaged into chopped kale with creamy goat cheese, savory shallots, and sweet honey drizzle.

4.8 from 170 votes
CourseSalad
CuisineAmerican
Keywordkale citrus salad, spring salads, sweet and savory salad, winter citrus
Prep Time25 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings4 servings
Calories368kcal
AuthorChristina Hill
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Ingredients

Grilled Meyer Lemon Dressing

Kale Citrus Salad

Instructions

Grilled Meyer Lemon Dressing

  1. Grill the meyer lemons cut-side down until charred and caramelized.
  2. Extract the juice from the grilled lemons (about 3 tablespoons).
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, minced garlic, and dijon mustard.
  4. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until emulsified.
  5. Stir in the honey, water, salt, white pepper, and torn basil leaves.
  6. Set dressing aside while preparing the salad.

Kale Citrus Salad

  1. Tear the tuscan kale into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl.
  2. Pour the Meyer Lemon Basil dressing over the kale and massage gently for 1-2 minutes to soften the leaves.
  3. Segment the blood oranges and grapefruit, removing any excess pith. Add to the massaged kale.
  4. In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallot slices and sauté until golden and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Season with a pinch of kosher salt.
  5. Top the salad with the caramelized shallots, sliced avocado, basil chiffonade, and crumbled goat cheese.
  6. Drizzle with honey and serve immediately.

Notes

  • If you don't have access to blood oranges, regular oranges or clementines work well as substitutes.
  • The dressing can be made up to 4 hours ahead of time. Store in an airtight container.
  • For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken or toasted nuts like almonds or pecans.
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