Imagine a salad so deliciously transformative that it turns even the most hardcore vegetable skeptics into kale enthusiasts. This Warm Crispy Kale Salad with Mushroom Bacon and Goat's Cheese is not just a dish—it's a culinary experience that combines crispy textures, rich flavors, and nutritional powerhouse ingredients. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy meal that's both elegant and incredibly satisfying, proving that healthy eating can be mind-blowingly delicious.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bunch kale
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the kale thoroughly under cold running water. Pat dry completely with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Remove the tough stems from the kale leaves by folding the leaf in half and carefully cutting out the thick central stem. Tear or chop the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Slice the mushrooms into thin, uniform slices.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they begin to brown and release their moisture, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add the kale pieces to the skillet with the mushrooms. Toss gently to combine and allow the kale to slightly wilt and become crispy at the edges, cooking for about 3-4 minutes.
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the kale and mushrooms, stirring to coat evenly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the warm kale and mushroom mixture to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the top of the warm salad, allowing the residual heat to slightly melt the cheese.
- Serve immediately while the salad is still warm, ensuring the kale remains crisp and the goat cheese is softened but not completely melted.
Tips
- Ensure your kale is completely dry before cooking to achieve maximum crispiness. Excess moisture will steam the leaves instead of crisping them.
- Use a cast-iron skillet if possible for the best browning of mushrooms and even heat distribution.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking mushrooms—this helps them brown instead of steam.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or toasted pine nuts.
- Use fresh, high-quality goat cheese for the most creamy and tangy result.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast between warm, crispy kale and slightly melted goat cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 13mg
