Description
This Kale Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing is a fresh and flavorful twist on the classic Caesar salad, featuring tender massaged kale, crunchy homemade croutons, and a rich, anchovy-infused dressing. Perfect for a healthy yet indulgent meal or side, this recipe balances bold flavors with nutritious ingredients for a satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Scale
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
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
- Prepare the Dressing: Combine the anchovies, minced garlic, salt, freshly cracked black pepper, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and mayonnaise in a bowl. Whisk together until the ingredients are thoroughly blended.
- Emulsify the Dressing: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking vigorously to create a smooth, creamy dressing with a balanced flavor.
- Prepare the Kale: Remove the ribs from the kale and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the kale in a large bowl.
- Massage the Kale: Drizzle the kale with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, and gently massage the leaves with your hands for about 2-3 minutes until the kale softens and darkens.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the massaged kale and toss to coat all the leaves evenly with the dressing.
- Add Cheese and Croutons: Mix in the finely grated parmesan cheese and the homemade croutons, tossing again to combine.
- Serve: Garnish with additional parmesan cheese if desired and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
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 is key to softening its texture and making it more enjoyable to eat.
- Homemade croutons can be made by toasting cubed bread with olive oil and seasoning until crispy.
- Mayonnaise in the dressing can be substituted with an egg for a more traditional Caesar dressing.
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
