Vegetarian 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 dressing that you'll want to put on everything. The smoked paprika and honey in the vinaigrette create this warm, slightly sweet depth that makes the whole bowl feel more substantial than your average green salad. Massaging the kale with a pinch of salt is the move here — it softens the leaves and mellows any bitterness, so every bite is tender rather than tough. Toasting the walnuts and pumpkin seeds in a dry skillet takes just a few minutes but adds a nutty crunch that makes the textures really sing. The blueberries bring a bright pop of sweetness that plays beautifully against the savory dressing and the sharpness of thinly sliced red onion. Everything in this recipe is naturally plant-based and free of meat or fish, so it works seamlessly for anyone eating without animal proteins — no substitutions needed. Serve it right away once the avocado goes on top, and don't skip the fresh parsley if you have it on hand.
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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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