Nitrate & Nitrite Free Smoky Paprika Kale and Blueberry Salad
This vibrant salad is proof that eating clean doesn't mean eating boring. Juicy blueberries, creamy avocado, and massaged kale come together in a bowl that looks stunning and tastes even better — sweet, smoky, and satisfyingly hearty all at once. Every single ingredient here is whole and unprocessed, so there's no need to scrutinize labels for hidden preservatives or additives that sneak into so many packaged foods. The dressing is the real star: smoked paprika and cumin give it a deep, almost barbecue-like warmth, balanced by bright lemon juice and a touch of raw honey. Toasting the walnuts and pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet takes just a few minutes but adds a nutty crunch that makes the whole salad feel restaurant-worthy. Massaging the kale with a pinch of salt softens the leaves and mellows any bitterness, so even kale skeptics tend to come around. It's the kind of recipe you'll want to keep in your back pocket for weeknight dinners and weekend meal prep alike.
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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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