Easy Kale Mango Salad with Mint
Tender lacinato kale is softened with a tangy white balsamic vinaigrette, then tossed with sweet mango, crisp cucumber, and a sprinkle of crunchy pumpkin seeds. Finished with fresh mint (or basil and pomegranate for a cozy fall twist), this refreshing salad is as versatile as it is delicious — perfect for picnics, weeknight dinners, or holiday spreads.
Servings 4
Calories 126kcal
Ingredients
- 1 bunch lacinato kale (170 g) about 6 oz, stems removed and leaves finely chopped
- 1 batch white balsamic vinaigrette (80 ml) about ⅓ cup - recipe here
- 1 shallot (30 g) about 1 oz, thinly sliced
- 1 ripe mango (340 g), about 12 oz / peeled and diced
- 4 small Persian cucumbers (250 g), about 9 oz / diced
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (18 g), for crunch
- 6 - 8 leaves fresh mint torn
Optional Fall Add-Ins:
- ⅓ cup mozzarella pearls (75 g)
- ¼ cup pomegranate seeds (40 g)
- 6 leaves fresh basil torn
Instructions
- Make the vinaigrette - Start by preparing the white balsamic vinaigrette and thinly slicing the shallot. You'll use the vinaigrette to coat the kale and shallots, allowing them to rest, soften, and absorb flavor while you prep the remaining ingredients.
- Massage the kale - Remove the stems from the kale and finely chop the leaves into small, bite-sized pieces. Add the chopped kale to a large mixing bowl. Pour in enough vinaigrette to lightly coat the kale (you can add more later if needed), along with the shallots. Using clean hands, gently massage the kale for about 30 seconds to tenderize the leaves and enhance flavor. Set aside while you prep the toppings.
- Add fresh ingredients - Peel and dice the mango into small cubes. Slice the cucumbers into half-moons, about ⅛ inch thick. Add the mango, cucumber, pumpkin seeds, and torn mint leaves to the bowl of massaged kale. Toss gently to combine.
- Customize by season.
- Summer version: Keep it light with fresh mint and pumpkin seeds for a bright, refreshing crunch.
- Fall version: Add mozzarella pearls, pomegranate seeds, and torn basil leaves for a cozy, seasonal upgrade.
- Taste and serve - Give the salad a final toss. Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt or an extra splash of vinaigrette, if desired. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Notes
