Kale Caesar Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Kale Caesar Salad is a fresh twist on the classic Caesar, featuring nutrient-packed kale and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a perfect side dish or light meal that combines crispy croutons and shaved Parmesan for a delightful crunch and flavor.
Ingredients
- 6 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1/2 cup croutons
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 2: Place the chopped kale in a large bowl and massage it with half of the dressing until the leaves are coated and slightly softened.
- Step 3: Top the dressed kale with croutons and shaved Parmesan cheese.
- Step 4: Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter dressing, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make this salad a complete meal.
- Use kale varieties like Tuscan or Lacinato for a milder flavor.
- Toast garlic lightly before mincing for a richer taste in the dressing.
Storage
Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Toss kale salad with fresh dressing before serving to keep it crisp. Leftover dressing can be refrigerated for up to a week.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other greens instead of kale?
Yes, romaine lettuce or spinach can be used, but kale gives the salad its characteristic hearty texture and flavor.
How do I prevent the kale from tasting bitter?
Massaging the kale with dressing helps break down tough fibers and reduces bitterness, making the leaves tender and flavorful.
Print
Kale Caesar Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and nutritious Kale Caesar Salad featuring tender massaged kale, crispy croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese, all tossed in a creamy homemade Caesar dressing. This salad is perfect as a light lunch or a flavorful side dish, combining the robust texture of kale with the classic tangy, garlicky Caesar flavors.
Ingredients
Salad
- 6 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1/2 cup croutons
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
Dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth and fully combined.
- Massage the Kale: Place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl and add half of the prepared dressing. Using your hands, gently massage the dressing into the kale leaves for about 2-3 minutes until the kale softens and darkens in color.
- Assemble the Salad: After massaging, top the kale with the croutons and shaved Parmesan cheese to add texture and flavor.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the remaining half of the dressing evenly over the salad for extra creaminess. Toss lightly if desired and serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Notes
- Massaging kale breaks down the fibers, making it more tender and easier to eat.
- For a lighter dressing, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make this salad a complete meal.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for more intense flavor instead of pre-shaved.
- Adjust the amount of garlic based on your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Kale Caesar Salad, Healthy Salad, Creamy Dressing, Vegetarian Salad, Easy Salad Recipe, Massaged Kale Salad
