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One of our favorite kiwi recipes – Quick & Easy Kiwi Salad
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If you’re craving something fresh, colorful, and downright delicious to add to your holiday table or any meal, our Kiwi Salad has got you covered. Packed with vibrant CA GROWN kiwis, spicy-toasted walnuts, and a zesty citrus vinaigrette, this salad is a feast for the eyes and a treat for the taste buds. Trust me, this isn’t just any old side salad; it’s a showstopper that brings California’s best to your table in under 15 minutes of prep. Plus, it’s an easy way to introduce more delicious kiwi recipes into your lineup—and let’s be real, who couldn’t use a little extra sunshine on their plate?
Why We Love CA GROWN Kiwi
Did you know that California is the only state in the U.S. that produces kiwi commercially? These little green gems are grown on vines, much like grapes, using a trellis system. They flourish in California’s Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys.
With kiwi season running from October through May, there’s plenty of time to get creative with kiwi recipes that celebrate this nutrient-packed fruit. California-grown kiwis are loaded with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. They are the perfect way to add a healthy pop of flavor to your favorite dishes.
What Makes This Kiwi Salad Special?
This Kiwi Salad is more than just a mix of greens and fruit; it’s a layered masterpiece of textures and flavors. Each bite brings together the juicy sweetness of fresh kiwi, the spicy crunch of toasted walnuts, and the zing of a homemade citrus vinaigrette. It’s a salad that’s not only stunning on the plate but also surprisingly satisfying. From the contrast of textures in each bite to the jewel-toned colors of this vibrant salad, it is a showstopper!
How to Make This Quick & Easy Kiwi Salad
Okay, so let’s break down this Kiwi Salad into a few easy-to-follow steps. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to pull off this beauty. Trust me, it’ll look like you spent way more time on it than you actually did. This salad is super easy on the eyes and time constraints!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Citrus Vinaigrette:
This dressing consists of freshly squeezed lemon and orange juices, honey, Dijon mustard, finely minced shallots, and olive oil. Drizzle it over the salad just before serving for a tangy kick that’ll wake up your taste buds. - Spicy-Toasted Walnuts:
These honey-coated walnuts, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a dash of cayenne, add just the right amount of spice. Toast them up, and you’ll have a snack-worthy topping that’s a far cry from your typical salad crunch. While we love the toasted walnuts on this salad, it would also be delicious with a mix. Our friend Alison of A Girl Defloured’s Honey Roasted Mixed Nuts, combines walnuts, almonds, pecans, pistachios, and pepitas. - The Salad Itself:
Start with a base of mixed leafy greens, then layer in CA GROWN kiwis sliced into thin, beautiful rounds. Add pomegranate arils for a pop of color and dried apricots for a hint of sweetness. Top it all off with those spicy walnuts and a drizzle of the vinaigrette.
Nutritional Benefits of California Kiwis
Kiwis aren’t just a pretty face in this salad; they pack a serious nutritional punch. Here are some reasons to love this California-grown superfruit:
- Vitamin C Powerhouse: Kiwis contain more vitamin C per serving than oranges, making them a fantastic choice for boosting immunity and supporting skin health.
- Fiber-Rich: High in dietary fiber, kiwis aid digestion and help keep you full longer—a win-win for both your taste buds and your waistline.
- Antioxidant-Rich: Packed with antioxidants, kiwis help fight off free radicals, which can help reduce inflammation and support heart health.
Serving Suggestions for Your Kiwi Salad
This Kiwi Salad is a versatile side dish that can be served in several ways. Here are a few ideas to help you make the most of this delightful recipe:
- Thanksgiving Twist: Add this salad to your Thanksgiving spread as a refreshing counterpoint to richer dishes like stuffing and mashed potatoes.
- Pair with Grilled Proteins: Serve it alongside grilled chicken for a light and healthy meal that’s perfect for a sunny California evening.
- Wrap It Up: Spoon the salad into large lettuce leaves or tortilla wraps for a portable, veggie-packed lunch that’s great on the go.
- Top with Feta or Goat Cheese: Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese if you’re craving a bit of creaminess. It’s the perfect complement to the tart kiwi and spicy walnuts.
More Kiwi Recipes to Try
If you’re as obsessed with kiwi as we are, there are plenty more ways to incorporate it into your meals. Here are a few kiwi recipes to try next:
- Kiwi Popsicles: This recipe has a yogurt-based mixture that includes dark chocolate and slivered almonds. Trust us, the kiwi/chocolate combo is amazing!
- Kiwi Bread with Lime Glaze: This indulgently moist Kiwi Bread from our friend Kate Ramos at ¡Hola! Jalapeño! gets its ultra-soft crumb from avocado and kiwifruit puree.
- Kiwi Short Ribs: Kiwi is the secret to tender Kalbi (AKA: short ribs) from Nom Nom Paleo! Similar to pineapple, Asian pear, and ginger, kiwi contains an enzyme that breaks down protein and naturally tenderizes the meat.
- Kiwi Caipirinha Cocktail: This cocktail from ¡Hola! Jalapeño! is made with ripe, juicy California kiwifruit and limes, honey, and cachaça—Brazil’s most popular sugar cane liquor. Delicious and refreshing.
Why Choose CA GROWN Produce?
When you buy CA GROWN produce, you’re not just getting fresher, higher-quality fruits and veggies; you’re supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture. California’s unique climate allows for a wide variety of produce, including kiwi, to thrive. With shorter travel distances from farm to table, CA GROWN produce is often fresher and more flavorful, so you can taste the difference.
A Kiwi Salad Recipe That’s Sure to Impress
There you have it—one of our all-time favorite kiwi recipes that’s bound to steal the show. This Quick & Easy Kiwi Salad brings together the best of California’s fall bounty with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and an irresistible crunch. And let’s face it, when a salad looks this good, even the pickiest eaters might go in for a second helping!
So next time you’re looking for a refreshing dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful, give this kiwi salad a whirl. With CA GROWN kiwis adding a juicy punch, this recipe is proof that the simplest ingredients often make the most memorable meals.
Whether you’re serving it up for a holiday gathering or just treating yourself to something special, this Kiwi Salad is a taste of California sunshine in every bite.
This quick and easy kiwi recipe is bound to become one of your go-to favorites, thanks to its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. So go on—add some CA GROWN flair to your next meal, and watch your guests go wild over this stunning kiwi salad!
Why don’t you shake up the tunes you cook to? Check out this California Grown Spotify playlist:
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A Sensational Kiwi Salad
Ingredients
For the citrus vinaigrette:
- 4 TBSP lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 TBSP orange juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp shallot minced
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
For the spicy-toasted walnuts:
- 1 ½ cup walnuts
- 1 TBSP honey
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ⅛ tsp cayenne
For the salad:
- 10 ounces mixed greens
- 3 kiwis peeled and sliced into thin discs
- 1 ½ cup spice-toasted walnuts
- ½ cup pomegranate arils
- ½ cup dried apricots sliced thin
- citrus vinaigrette to taste
Instructions
To make the citrus vinaigrette:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, orange juice, and lemon zest.
- Stir in the minced shallot, Dijon mustard, and honey. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while continuously whisking. This will help the oil emulsify and create a smooth vinaigrette.
- Add the salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste. Whisk again to ensure everything is well combined.
- Taste the vinaigrette and adjust seasoning or sweetness if needed, adding a little more honey for sweetness or mustard for tang, if desired.
To make the spicy-toasted walnuts:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium sauté pan or pot over medium heat, combine the honey, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Stir until the honey is fully incorporated with the spices.
- Add the walnuts to the pan and stir well to evenly coat them with the spiced honey mixture. Continue stirring for about 1-2 minutes to ensure the walnuts are thoroughly coated.
- Transfer the coated walnuts to the lined baking sheet, spreading them out evenly in a single layer. Place the baking sheet in the oven and toast for about 6 minutes, or until the walnuts are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to let them burn.
- Remove the walnuts from the oven and allow them to cool completely.
To make the salad:
- Place the mixed greens in a large serving bowl.
- Evenly layer the kiwi slices, spicy-toasted walnuts, pomegranate arils, and sliced dried apricots over the mixed greens.
- Drizzle the citrus vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine the ingredients. Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions About Kiwi Salad
Q: Can I make this salad in advance?
A: You can prepare some of the components (vinaigrette, toasted walnuts, and sliced dried apricots) in advance, but it’s best to wait until just before serving to slice the kiwis and assemble everything. This keeps the greens crisp and the fruit fresh.
Q: What other fruits pair well with kiwi?
A: Kiwi pairs beautifully with a variety of fruits! Try it with berries, mango, or even citrus fruits like orange or grapefruit.
Q: Are CA GROWN kiwis organic?
A: While not all California-grown kiwis are organic, many local farms offer organic options. Always check labels or ask your local grocer if organic is important to you.
Q: How long does kiwi stay fresh after slicing?
A: Sliced kiwi can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2-3 days, although it will lose its juices as it sits. Store it in an airtight container.