Mediterranean Diet Friendly Smoky Paprika Kale and Blueberry Salad
This salad is a genuinely exciting combination of flavors — earthy massaged kale, juicy blueberries, and creamy avocado all pulled together by a smoky, cumin-laced olive oil dressing that tastes far more complex than the ingredient list suggests. The smoked paprika and lemon juice do something almost magical here, giving the whole bowl a warm, slightly tangy depth that makes it feel like a real meal rather than a side dish. Massaging the kale with a pinch of salt is the move that transforms it from tough and bitter to silky and rich, so don't skip that step. Toasting the walnuts and pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet adds a nutty crunch that plays beautifully against the soft avocado and burst-ready blueberries. This kind of recipe is a natural fit for a plant-forward eating style built around whole foods, healthy fats, and bold seasoning — extra-virgin olive oil, raw nuts, seeds, and plenty of fresh produce are the backbone of every component. It comes together in one bowl with minimal cleanup, and the dressing doubles as a great weeknight staple you'll want to keep on rotation.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the salad
- 1 bunch curly or lacinato kale (about 8 oz), stems removed, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- ¼ small red onion, very thinly sliced
- ½ cup raw walnuts
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1 avocado, pitted and sliced
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp raw honey
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For serving
- 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the walnuts and pumpkin seeds and toast, stirring frequently, until the walnuts are fragrant and lightly golden and the pumpkin seeds begin to pop, about 3–4 minutes. Transfer to a plate and let cool.
- 2
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cumin, honey, garlic, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and slightly emulsified.
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