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Sides can make or break an outdoor barbecue, so simple salads are a go-to for me. Nothing too fancy, just simple ingredients from the garden. I love using what is in season for the freshest flavors and for its quick options. Luckily, I can run out to the garden and gather a few greens while I ponder up the perfect vinaigrette. This spicy pear kale salad has the perfect vinaigrette, which can be adapted for any salad!

Watch how to make this pear kale salad.

YouTube video

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Spicy Pear Kale Salad

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This spicy pear kale salad is a delicious way to serve this under loved green. Topped with a spicy dressing, pears, and Parmesan cheese, it's a great summer side dish for any party!
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 0 minutes
Total: 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
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Ingredients

For the vinaigrette

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • juice of 1 lemon
  • 3-5 cloves garlic minced
  • ¼ tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the salad

  • 8 cups loosely packed kale washed, spun dry, and roughly chopped
  • 3 medium pears diced
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions 

  • Combine all vinaigrette ingredients and mix to combine. Set aside until ready to serve.
    ¼ cup olive oil, juice of 1 lemon, 3-5 cloves garlic, ¼ tsp kosher salt, ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • For the salad, start with the kale. Layer the pears and Parmesan cheese on top and drizzle with the vinaigrette. Serve immediately.
    8 cups loosely packed kale, 3 medium pears, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Video

YouTube video

Nutrition

Serving: 1 servingCalories: 125 kcal

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Did you make this? Leave a comment below!

Kaleb Wyse is a New York Times bestselling author behind the popular Wyse Guide website. Living on his fourth-generation Iowa farm, he loves sharing recipes and gardening tips that come from traditions that feel comfortably familiar. His down-to-earth style makes sustainable living and farm life feel like home!

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