Name: Kale Caesar Salad Recipe: A Healthy Twist on a Classic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: For the Salad:; 1 bunch kale, de-stemmed and chopped; 1 cup Romaine lettuce, chopped (optional for added crunch); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; For the Dressing:; 1/3 cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

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If you’re a fan of the classic Caesar salad but want to boost the nutritional value, you’re in the right place! Kale Caesar Salad offers the same rich, creamy dressing and crunchy croutons, but with a healthy twist—using kale as the base.

Kale is packed with vitamins and minerals, making this salad a perfect addition to your lunch or dinner routine. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious, nutrient-packed salad!

5.0 from 1 vote

Details

Servings

Prep time

Cooking time

10 minutes (if adding homemade croutons or cooked protein)

Calories

250-300 calories (varies based on dressing and toppings used)

Ingredients: The Perfect Mix of Fresh and Flavorful

For this Kale Caesar Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 large bunch of fresh kale (about 6-8 cups, chopped)
1 cup homemade or store-bought croutons
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
For the Dressing:
2 egg yolks
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 cup anchovy paste
1/2 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

A Step-by-Step Guide for Kale Caesar Salad

Step 1: Preparing the Kale – The Foundation of Your Salad

Before you start tossing your salad together, the first step is to properly prepare the kale. Kale leaves are tough, so it’s important to remove the stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.

Be sure to wash and dry them thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. To make the kale tender, massage the chopped leaves with a little olive oil or lemon juice for about 2 minutes. This step helps to soften the texture, making the kale more enjoyable to eat!

Step 2: Crafting the Creamy Caesar Dressing
Now comes the fun part—creating the signature Caesar dressing! The rich, creamy dressing ties everything together, and it’s surprisingly easy to make from scratch. In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and anchovy paste.

Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk to achieve a smooth, velvety texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Toasting the Croutons – A Crunchy Touch
While the dressing is coming together, let’s prepare the croutons. Toss some cubed bread with olive oil, garlic, and any seasonings you like (a little salt, pepper, and Italian herbs work wonders!).

Spread them out on a baking sheet and toast in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until golden and crispy. These croutons will add a delightful crunch to your kale salad, balancing out the tender texture of the kale.

Step 4: Assembling the Kale Caesar Salad – A Gorgeous Dish Comes Together
With all the components prepared, it’s time to bring the salad together. In a large bowl, toss the kale with the creamy Caesar dressing, making sure the leaves are evenly coated. Add in the croutons and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until it’s well-mixed, and give it a final taste to adjust the seasoning if needed.

Serving Suggestions – Enjoying Your Nutrient-Packed Salad

This Kale Caesar Salad is not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. You can serve it as a main dish or pair it with your favorite protein, like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a veggie burger. It’s an ideal choice for a speedy lunch or a flavorful dinner side.

Serve it immediately to enjoy the freshness, or store it in the fridge for later (though it’s best eaten fresh).

Why Kale? The Health Benefits You Don’t Want to Miss

Kale is often called a “superfood” due to its incredible health benefits. It’s packed with vitamins A, K, C, and several B vitamins. Additionally, it’s a great source of antioxidants and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

By swapping traditional romaine lettuce for kale in your Caesar salad, you’re not only adding flavor but also boosting the salad’s nutritional value.

The Beauty of Homemade Dressing – Fresh, Flavorful, and Free from Additives

One of the best parts about this Kale Caesar Salad is the homemade dressing. Unlike store-bought versions, which often contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and excess sodium, making your own dressing allows you to control the ingredients and create a fresher, cleaner taste.

You can customize the dressing to your preferences by adjusting the garlic, anchovy paste, or even adding a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat! Homemade dressing also avoids the heavy additives and sugar that are often found in store-bought versions.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate the flavor of your salad and ensure you’re serving your family something wholesome.

A New Favorite in Your Salad Rotation

This Kale Caesar Salad is a perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and fresh flavors, and it’s a great way to enjoy a healthy take on a classic favorite. With the richness of the homemade dressing, the crunch of the croutons, and the health benefits of kale, this salad is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch, dinner, or a special gathering, this salad is a guaranteed hit.