Grilled Kale Salad with Ricotta and Plums

A sophisticated summer salad featuring charred kale leaves topped with fresh ricotta cheese and sweet plums, all dressed in a balsamic-thyme vinaigrette. The combination of grilled greens, creamy cheese, and fruit creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

4 servings
25 min

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 to taste Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
  • 4 medium plums
  • 12 large leaves curly kale leaves
  • ¾ cup fresh ricotta

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Whisk 3 tablespoons oil, vinegar, thyme, and honey in a medium bowl. Season vinaigrette to taste with salt and pepper. Add plums and toss to coat; transfer plums to a plate.

    5 min

  2. 2.

    Build a medium-hot fire in a charcoal grill, or heat a gas grill to high. Brush kale leaves with remaining 1 tablespoon oil; season with salt. Grill kale, turning once, until crispy and charred at edges, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a work surface; let stand until cool enough to handle. Remove large center stems with a knife and discard (just trim the tough ends from smaller, more tender kale stems).

    15 min

  3. 3.

    Divide ricotta among plates; season with salt and pepper. Stir vinaigrette again. Tear larger kale leaves into pieces (leave smaller leaves whole). Place leaves in a large bowl and toss with some of the vinaigrette. Divide leaves among plates. Top with plums and drizzle some vinaigrette over.

    5 min

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