Name: Cherry Kale Salad with Farro, Avocado, and Feta in Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 bunch curly kale, de-stemmed and shredded; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; Pinch of sea salt; 2 cups cooked farro (quick cooking 365 brand recommended); 2 cups dark sweet cherries, pitted and halved; 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped; 1/3 cup crumbled feta, plus extra for serving; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, plus extra for topping; 1 avocado, pitted and sliced; 1 clove garlic, chopped; 1 tablespoon sour cherry jam; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 85 reviews

If you’re craving a salad that bursts with vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, then the Cherry Kale Salad with Farro, Avocado, and Feta in Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This dish perfectly balances the hearty, chewy goodness of farro with the fresh brightness of kale and the sweet pop of fresh cherries. Creamy avocado slices and tangy feta add richness, while toasted walnuts offer a delightful crunch, all tied together by a luscious cherry balsamic vinaigrette that makes every bite sing. It’s a salad that feels like a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients with every forkful.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows many halved cherries with a deep red color and juicy texture, spread over a white marbled surface. The cherries' dark pits are visible in the middle of each half, creating a contrast with the bright red flesh. In the background, there are several cherry stems and whole cherries scattered loosely. A black knife with a shiny handle lies at the front on the white marbled surface, partly visible. The scene captures a fresh and natural setting with a focus on the rich color and texture of the cut cherries. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started on this Cherry Kale Salad with Farro, Avocado, and Feta in Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe means gathering a handful of simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: kale provides the green backbone, farro brings a satisfying chew, and sweet cherries offer bright bursts of flavor that contrast beautifully with the creamy feta and buttery avocado. The vinaigrette pulls everything together with its rich, fruity tang.

Curly kale (1 bunch, de-stemmed and shredded): The perfect leafy green base with a slightly bitter bite that softens when massaged.
Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness to the kale and emulsifies the dressing for a silky texture.
Sea salt (pinch): Enhances all the flavors, especially when massaging kale to soften it.
Cooked farro (2 cups): A chewy, nutty grain that makes the salad filling and adds substance.
Dark sweet cherries (2 cups, pitted and halved): Fresh and juicy, delivering natural sweetness and a pop of color.
Walnuts (½ cup, toasted and chopped): Toasting unlocks their rich flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.
Crumbled feta (⅓ cup, plus extra for serving): Brings saltiness and creaminess to every bite.
Fresh basil (2 tablespoons, chopped, plus extra for topping): Offers a fragrant herbal note that lifts the whole salad.
Avocado (1, pitted and sliced): Silky and creamy, it mellows the bold flavors and adds a luscious texture.
Garlic (1 clove, chopped): Adds a little savory depth to the dressing.
Sour cherry jam (1 tablespoon): Found in gourmet sections, it adds intense cherry flavor and natural sweetness to the vinaigrette.
Balsamic vinegar (¼ cup): Provides tanginess and a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
Salt and pepper (¼ teaspoon each): Season the dressing to perfection, highlighting every ingredient.

How to Make Cherry Kale Salad with Farro, Avocado, and Feta in Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Massage the Kale

Start by placing your shredded kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt. Now comes the magic move: massage the kale with your hands for about one to two minutes. You’ll notice the kale soften and shrink as it breaks down the tough fibers, making it more tender and easier to enjoy. This little step transforms kale from intimidating to inviting.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette

Next, it’s time to make the dressing that gives this salad its unforgettable flavor. In a food processor or blender, combine the chopped garlic, sour cherry jam, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend everything until smooth and emulsified. You’ll get a glossy, vibrant vinaigrette that bursts with the sweet tartness of cherries, balanced with the bold acidity of balsamic and the richness of olive oil.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

With the kale massaged and dressing made, add the cooked farro, halved cherries, toasted walnuts, crumbled feta, and chopped basil to the bowl with the kale. Pour in about a quarter cup of the cherry balsamic vinaigrette and gently toss everything until perfectly combined. The farro gives it heartiness, while the cherries add that juicy surprise in every bite, and the walnuts bring texture that keeps you coming back for more.

Step 4: Add Avocado and Final Touches

Finish your salad masterpiece by topping it with luscious slices of fresh avocado. For an extra flourish, sprinkle additional crumbled feta and chopped basil on top. Serve with extra vinaigrette on the side for those who want a little more zing. This finishing touch adds creaminess and fresher herbal notes, making the visual and flavor experience truly stunning.

How to Serve Cherry Kale Salad with Farro, Avocado, and Feta in Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe

A white bowl filled with several layers of fresh green kale leaves as the base, topped with bright red halved cherries scattered evenly, sprinkled white cheese crumbles, and light brown chopped walnuts across the top. On one side, thin, neatly fanned slices of creamy avocado with a light brown dressing drizzled over it. Small green leaves are placed around for garnish. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with whole cherries, walnut pieces, and green leaves around it, and a jar of dark red sauce and a square white dish with more brown dressing nearby. A white cloth is partially visible behind the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Consider elevating your salad by adding toasted walnuts or pecans as a garnish for extra crunch, or sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds for nuttiness. A few whole fresh cherries on top not only look beautiful but remind everyone of the salad’s star ingredient. Don’t forget an extra drizzle of the cherry balsamic vinaigrette for that extra punch of bright, fruity flavor!

Side Dishes

This salad can shine as a full meal or pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, salmon, or even a crusty baguette. A light soup or roasted vegetables make excellent companions. Because the flavors of the salad are bold yet balanced, simple sides that complement rather than overpower work best.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve the salad in hollowed-out avocado halves or rustic wooden bowls to bring out its natural beauty. You could also turn it into individual servings layered in clear glass jars or bowls to show off the amazing colors and textures. Presentation that highlights the vibrant cherries, fresh green kale, and creamy feta will make this dish irresistible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep best if the dressing is kept separate until just before serving to prevent the kale and farro from becoming soggy. When ready to eat, give it a quick toss with extra dressing to refresh the flavors.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended. The texture of fresh fruits like cherries and avocado, as well as the delicate kale, can be compromised by freezing and thawing. To maintain the integrity of the salad, enjoy it within a couple of days of making.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the farro component warm, you can gently heat it in a pan or microwave before assembling the salad. However, avoid reheating the entire salad, as the fresh ingredients and dressing should be served cold or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different grain instead of farro?

Absolutely! While farro lends a nutty, chewy bite that works wonderfully here, you can swap it with quinoa, barley, or even brown rice depending on what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I substitute for sour cherry jam if I can’t find it?

If sour cherry jam isn’t available, a mix of regular cherry preserves with a splash of lemon juice or a little fresh cherry juice can add a similar sweet-tart punch to the vinaigrette. Just balance to taste!

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the feta with a plant-based cheese alternative or omit it altogether. You might also want to add some toasted pumpkin seeds or chickpeas for extra protein and texture.

How long does this salad stay fresh?

When stored properly in the refrigerator and with dressing separate, this salad stays fresh for up to two days. It’s best eaten as soon as possible for optimal taste and texture.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Prepare the components in advance, keep the dressing separate, and assemble the salad when you’re ready to eat. This makes for a nutritious, quick, and delicious meal during busy weekdays.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Kale Salad with Farro, Avocado, and Feta in Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or sharing it with friends, it’s sure to impress with its vibrant colors, delightful textures, and bold flavors. Dive in and enjoy this beautiful, nutritious salad that will have you returning to the kitchen again and again.