Garlicky Kale Salad With Crispy Chickpeas

Garlicky Kale Salad With Crispy Chickpeas

Total time 30 minutes
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Ingredients

  • 10 ounces kale loosely chopped or torn // ~6 cups as original recipe is written

CHICKPEAS

  • 1 15- ounce can chickpeas rinsed, drained and thoroughly dried
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp olive avocado or grape seed, oil
  • 2 1/2 – 3 Tbsp tandoori masala spice blend

DRESSING

  • 1 head garlic
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil + more for roasting garlic
  • 2 medium lemons* juiced
  • 1-2 Tbsp maple syrup or honey if not vegan
  • 1 pinch each salt + pepper
  • Hot water to thin

Instructions

  • Peel apart garlic cloves but leave the skin on.
  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 C).
  • Add drained chickpeas to a mixing bowl and toss with oil and seasonings.
  • Add garlic cloves and seasoned chickpeas to a baking sheet.
  • Drizzle garlic with a bit of olive or grape seed oil.
  • Bake for 20-23 or until the chickpeas are slightly crispy and golden brown and the garlic is fragrant and slightly browned.
  • Remove from oven and set aside.
  • Squeeze garlic out of skins / peel away skins and add to a mixing bowl.
  • Add all remaining dressing ingredients and whisk vigorously to combine, smashing the garlic with the whisk.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings as desired, adding more lemon for brightness and maple syrup for sweetness.
  • Set aside.
  • Add kale to a large mixing bowl.
  • Before adding dressing, add 1 Tbsp each lemon juice and olive oil (amount as original recipe is written // alter is adjusting batch size) to the kale and massage with hands to soften the texture and lessen bitterness.
  • Then add as much dressing as desired (some may be leftover) and mix with a spoon.
  • Top with chickpeas and serve.
  • Best when fresh, though leftovers keep in the fridge for up to a few days.
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Course; Salad / Vegetables

Vietnamese Peanut Hoisin Drizzle

Vietnamese Peanut Hoisin Drizzle

Rich and tangy Vietnamese peanut hoisin dressing, perfect for salads, noodles, or dipping.
Couverts1
Preparation 10 minutes
Preparation time:5 minutes
Total time 10 minutes
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Equipment

  • pan

Ingredients

  • 1 Birds eye chili sliced or 1 tsp chili sauce
  • 1 tsp Brown sugar
  • 2 cloves Garlic chopped
  • 2 tbsp Hoisin sauce
  • 2 tbsp Lime juice ~1 lime
  • ¼ cup Peanut butter
  • 1 tsp Fish sauce
  • 1 tsp Oil
  • ½ cup Water

Instructions

  • Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat, add the garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  • Add the peanut butter, hoisin sauce, water, fish sauce, lime juice, and chili and simmer until it thickens a bit, about 5 minutes.

Notes & Wine Advice

Serving Tip:
For a thicker dipping sauce, use only ¼ cup water. Experiment with the peanut butter to hoisin sauce ratio to achieve your preferred flavor.
Wine Advice:
(Wine pairing is typically not applicable for a dressing, but consider a light, slightly sweet white wine like Gewürztraminer if serving with a dish.)

Nutrition values

Calories: 250 kcal | koolhydraten: 15 g | Eiwitten: 10 g | Vet: 18 g | Suiker: 8 g
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Cuisine; Vietnam
Diets; Gluten-Free

Rainbow Thai Chicken Salad

Rainbow Thai Chicken Salad

Couverts4
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Ingredients

THAI CHICKEN SALAD INGREDIENTS:

  • 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 2 cups shredded purple cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded green cabbage
  • 1 avocado diced
  • 1 mango peeled, pitted and diced
  • 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded
  • 1 red pepper cored and julienned (or diced)
  • 1 cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped cashews or peanuts

PEANUT DRESSING INGREDIENTS:

  • 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
  • 2-3 tablespoons hot water
  • 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce if you are gluten-free, use GF soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
  • juice of 1 lime
  • pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

TO MAKE THE SALAD:

  • Toss all salad ingredients together until combined.
  • Drizzle with dressing or toss to combine, then serve immediately.

TO MAKE THE DRESSING:

  • Whisk all ingredients together until combined.
  • If the dressing is too thick, add hot water a teaspoon at a time until it reaches the consistency you desire.
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Course; Chicken / Salad
Cuisine; Thailand

Summer Grilled Mexican Street Corn Quinoa Salad

Summer Grilled Mexican Street Corn Quinoa Salad

Couverts6
Total time 30 minutes
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Ingredients

  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa rinsed
  • 4 ears corn husks removed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter softened
  • 1 lime juiced plus extra for garnish
  • 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoon fresh cilantro chopped
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chile powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt + pepper
  • 2 red peppers
  • 2 jalapeños
  • 2-4 green onions chopped
  • 1 cup tom-tom tomatoes halved grape/cherry tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil sliced
  • 4 slices thick bacon cooked + chopped optional
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese crumbled

Instructions

  • Prepare quinoa according to directions, which will most likely call for 1 cup of liquid.
  • While the quinoa is cooking preheat the grill to the highest setting.
  • Remove the husk from each ear of corn.
  • Brush the corn with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  • Wrap the corn in one layer of aluminum foil.
  • Grill for about 5 each “side” – rotating corn 4-5 times during grilling.
  • At the same time, also place the red peppers and jalapeño peppers on the grill.
  • Lightly charr the peppers on all sides.
  • Remove from the grill and allow to cool.
  • Meanwhile combine 2 tablespoons cilantro, smoked paprika, chile powder, salt and pepper.
  • In another bowl add the 3 tablespoons butter and half the seasoning mixture.
  • Once the corn is finished brush with just enough of the butter to coat all around the it.
  • Allow the corn to cool and then, slice off the cob using a sharp knife.
  • Slice the peppers as well and add everything to a big bowl.
  • To the bowl add the warm quinoa, remaining seasonings, 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, basil, green onions, tomatoes and 2 tablespoons olive oil.
  • Toss well.
  • Add the bacon if using and then the cotija cheese, toss again and serve warm or at room temperature.
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Course; Salad / Vegetables

Cucumber & Strawberry Poppyseed Salad

Cucumber & Strawberry Poppyseed Salad

Couverts4
Total time 10 minutes
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Equipment

  • Large bowl

Ingredients

  • 2 large cucumbers
  • 4 cups strawberries sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta crumbled
  • 1/2 cup Poppyseed Dressing

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, toss cucumbers and strawberries together.
  • Divide among four plates, sprinkle with feta and pour 2 tablespoons dressing over each salad and serve immediately!

Notes & Wine Advice

This salad holds wonderfully in the fridge for a make ahead meal. Just add salad dressing before serving.
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Course; Fruit / Salad / Vegetables

Chili Lime Sweet Corn Salad

Chili Lime Sweet Corn Salad

Couverts4
Deel op Facebook Print Recipe

Ingredients

  • 6 ears of corn husk and silk removed
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoons chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco see notes*
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste

Instructions

  • In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
  • Boil the corn for 3, then remove and allow to cool slightly so that they can be handled.
  • Cut kernels off the cob into a large bowl.
  • Set aside.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together butter, lime juice, chili powder, and chopped cilantro.
  • Pour the chili lime mixture over the corn and mix to coat.
  • Add the crumbled queso fresco and stir.
  • Season with salt to taste.
  • Serve at room temperature.
  • Refrigerate leftovers.

Notes & Wine Advice

*Queso fresco is a soft, mild, creamy Mexican cheese that can be crumbled easily. I found it at my local grocery store the cheese section, but if you cannot find it feta would be a good substitution.
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Course; Chili / Salad
Diets; Vegetarian

Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad

Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad

Couverts4
Total time 10 minutes
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Ingredients

SALAD INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 16-ounce bag coleslaw mix
  • 2 3-ounce packages of ramen noodles*, crumbled (you will not use the seasoning packet)
  • 1 cup shelled and cooked edamame
  • 1 avocado peeled, pitted and diced
  • 1 mango peeled, pitted, and julienned (or diced)
  • 1/2 cup thinly-sliced almonds
  • 1/2 cup thinly-sliced green onions scallions
  • Asian honey vinaigrette see ingredients below

ASIAN HONEY VINAIGRETTE

  • 1/2 cup avocado oil or vegetable oil, or any cooking oil
  • 1/4 cup honey or your desired sweetener
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • pinch of salt and black pepper

Instructions

TO MAKE THE SALAD:

  • Heat oven to 425°F.
  • Spread the crumbled ramen noodles and sliced almonds out on a baking sheet, and stir a bit to combine.
  • Bake for about 5, or until the almonds and noodles are slightly toasted and golden.
  • Remove baking sheet, and give the mixture a good stir to toss.
  • Then return it to the oven and toast for an additional 3.
  • Keep a very close eye on the mixture so that it does not burn.
  • Remove and set aside.
  • Add ingredients (including the vinaigrette) together in a large bowl, and toss until combined.
  • Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • (This salad is much better eaten the first day, as the noodles lose their “crunch” the longer it sits, and the avocado may brown a bit. Still, it’s perfectly edible and enjoyable even after a few days!)

TO MAKE THE VINAIGRETTE:

  • Whisk all ingredients together until combined.
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Course; Noodles / Salad

Cherry Summer Kale Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette

Cherry Summer Kale Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette

Couverts6
Total time 15 minutes
Deel op Facebook Print Recipe

Ingredients

  • 6 cups kale leaves massaged
  • 6 strips bacon diced
  • 1 cup cherries halved (seeds removed)
  • 1/2 cup blueberries
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced granny smith apple
  • 1/4 cup pecan pieces

BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE:

  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon dy basil
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • salt & pepper to season

Instructions

  • Massage torn kale leaves with a bit of sea salt.
  • Heat a medium saute pan to medium high heat, add bacon and cook fro 5 until crispy.
  • Remove and place on a paper towel to let grease drain.
  • In a small bowl add dijon mustard, honey, basil, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Whisk to emulsify (so the oil and vinegar are no longer separated).
  • In a large bowl add kale, bacon, cherries, blueberries, feta cheese, apples, and pecan pieces.
  • Serve dressing on the side or toss in at the last minute.
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Course; Salad

Charred Summer Veggie Medley with Gorgonzola

Summer veggie medley combines smoky grilled vegetables, fresh basil, tangy lemon dressing, and creamy Gorgonzola into a colorful salad packed with vibrant summer flavor. The vegetables develop beautiful charred edges on the grill while staying tender and juicy inside. Combined with sweet corn, fresh tomatoes, and rich cheese, this salad feels fresh, hearty, and ideal for outdoor dining.

What makes this grilled vegetable salad especially memorable is the contrast between smoky vegetables and creamy Gorgonzola. The lemon dressing brightens the vegetables while basil adds fresh herbal flavor throughout the dish. Together, the ingredients create a balance of richness, acidity, sweetness, and smoky depth.

Why summer veggie medley is perfect for grilling

The popularity of summer veggie medley recipes continues to grow because grilling transforms simple vegetables into something rich, smoky, and deeply flavorful. High grill heat caramelizes the natural sugars inside the vegetables while preserving freshness and texture. The result feels satisfying enough for a main vegetarian dish while also working beautifully as a side.

Another reason this grilled vegetable recipe works so well is its flexibility. Zucchini, asparagus, eggplant, peppers, onions, squash, and corn all absorb smoky grilled flavor naturally. This makes the salad easy to adapt depending on seasonal produce or personal preference.

Fresh vegetables and creamy cheese create balance

The creamy Gorgonzola adds richness that balances the smoky grilled vegetables beautifully. Sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and tender squash bring freshness while the lemon dressing keeps the salad bright and lively. Basil also adds fresh herbal notes that complement the charred vegetables naturally.

If you enjoy colorful barbecue side dishes, you may also like our BBQ Aardappelpakketjes, another flavorful grilled recipe perfect for summer gatherings and outdoor meals.

Texture is one of the highlights of this summer salad. The vegetables stay tender while the grilled edges become slightly crisp and smoky. Crumbled Gorgonzola melts slightly into the warm vegetables, creating creamy bites throughout the salad.

The lemon dressing gives this summer veggie medley additional brightness and balance. Dijon mustard, lemon juice, herb-infused oil, and black pepper create a light dressing that enhances the vegetables without overpowering their natural flavor.

This grilled vegetable recipe also works wonderfully for entertaining because many of the vegetables can be prepared ahead of time. Once grilled, the salad comes together quickly and can be served warm or at room temperature during barbecues and outdoor dinners.

Proper food handling remains important whenever preparing fresh vegetables and dairy products. Vegetables should be washed carefully before grilling and cheese stored properly before serving. For additional kitchen safety and food preparation guidance, visit the FDA.

Ultimately, summer veggie medley delivers smoky grilled flavor, fresh seasonal vegetables, creamy cheese, and bright citrus dressing in a colorful dish perfect for barbecues, picnics, and relaxed summer meals.

summer veggie medley served on a rustic wooden table with grilled vegetables and crumbled Gorgonzola

Charred Summer Veggie Medley with Gorgonzola

Grilled summer vegetables with lemon dressing, fresh basil, and creamy Gorgonzola cheese.
Couverts8 servings
Preparation 25 minutes
Preparation time:30 minutes
Total time 55 minutes
estimated costs pp $4.25 per person
Deel op Facebook Print Recipe

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch asparagus
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil
  • 4 oz Gorgonzola cheese
  • 3 ears corn
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 medium eggplant
  • 1/4 cup herb-infused oil for grilling
  • 1/4 cup herb-infused oil for dressing
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1/2 lemon
  • Black pepper
  • 2 pounds mixed tomatoes
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 red pepper
  • 1 red onion
  • 2 zucchini
  • 1 summer squash

Instructions

  • Preheat the grill to high heat.
  • Slice the eggplant lengthwise into thick slices.
  • Salt the eggplant lightly and allow it to rest briefly.
  • Prepare the remaining vegetables.
  • Husk the corn and place on a tray.
  • Slice the zucchini and squash lengthwise.
  • Quarter the onion while keeping the root attached.
  • Trim the asparagus.
  • Halve the red pepper and remove seeds.
  • Rinse and dry the eggplant.
  • Brush all vegetables lightly with herb-infused oil.
  • Grill the vegetables until charred and tender.
  • Transfer the vegetables to a platter.
  • Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
  • Slice the corn kernels from the cob.
  • Combine all vegetables in a large bowl.
  • Add halved tomatoes.
  • Whisk together the dressing ingredients.
  • Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
  • Add basil and toss gently.
  • Top with crumbled Gorgonzola and serve.

Notes & Wine Advice

Notes

This salad can be served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for outdoor entertaining.

Serve Tip

Serve this grilled vegetable salad alongside grilled meats, crusty bread, or roasted potatoes.

Variations

Replace Gorgonzola with feta cheese or goat cheese for a different creamy flavor variation.

Wine Advice

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the grilled vegetables and tangy cheese.

Nutrition values

Calories: 250 kcal | koolhydraten: 20 g | Eiwitten: 8 g | Vet: 15 g | Verzadigd vet: 5 g | Natrium: 340 mg | Suiker: 8 g
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