Nutmeg Free Smoky Paprika Kale and Blueberry Salad
This salad is a genuinely exciting combination of smoky, sweet, and earthy flavors that comes together with minimal effort and maximum payoff. Massaging the kale with a pinch of salt is the move that transforms it from tough and bitter to silky and deeply savory — it's a small step that makes a huge difference. The smoked paprika and cumin dressing brings a warm, slightly smoky backbone that plays beautifully against the burst of fresh blueberries and creamy avocado slices. Toasted walnuts and pumpkin seeds add satisfying crunch and a nutty depth that makes this feel more like a complete meal than a side dish. Many warming spice blends and pre-made dressings sneak in spices you didn't ask for, but here every ingredient is straightforward and clearly listed, so you stay in full control of what goes into the bowl. The honey and lemon juice in the dressing keep things bright and balanced without overpowering the other flavors. Serve it immediately after adding the avocado so everything stays vibrant and fresh.
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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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