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Kale Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 99 reviews
  • Author: Nora
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 20 min
  • Total Time: 30 min
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A vibrant and healthy Kale Caesar Salad featuring tender massaged kale, crunchy homemade croutons, and a rich, traditional homemade Caesar dressing with anchovies, garlic, and parmesan cheese.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Dressing

  • 2 anchovies (packed in oil)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or 1 medium or large egg)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Salad

  • 1 large bunch kale (any variety, ribs removed and torn into pieces)
  • 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
  • salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
  • 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
  • 2 cups homemade croutons


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, combine anchovies, minced garlic, salt, freshly cracked black pepper, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and mayonnaise or egg. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing.
  2. Massage the Kale: Place the torn kale pieces in a large bowl. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Using your hands, massage the kale firmly for about 2-3 minutes until the leaves soften and shrink slightly.
  3. Toss the Salad: Add the prepared dressing to the massaged kale and toss well to coat each leaf evenly.
  4. Add Cheese and Croutons: Stir in finely grated parmesan cheese and homemade croutons to the salad. Toss gently to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
  5. Serve: Garnish with additional parmesan cheese if desired and serve immediately to enjoy the crisp textures and bold, savory flavors.

Notes

  • This easy recipe for Kale Caesar Salad is made with tender massaged kale, crunchy homemade croutons, and a traditional homemade Caesar dressing with anchovies.
  • Massaging the kale softens its texture and makes it easier to digest.
  • Mayonnaise or egg acts as a creamy base for the dressing, choose according to your preference.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for bright acidity, which balances the richness of the dressing.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture, especially for the croutons to remain crunchy.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 1073 kcal
  • Sugar: 39 g
  • Sodium: 1807 mg
  • Fat: 51 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 34 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 132 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 23 g
  • Cholesterol: 152 mg