February 16, 2023

Kale Caesar Salad Recipe

kale-caesar-salad-bowl

Kale Caesar salad is a variation of the classic Caesar salad that uses kale instead of romaine lettuce as the base. Kale is a leafy green vegetable that is known for its high levels of nutrients and antioxidants. It has a slightly bitter and slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the creamy, tangy flavor of Caesar dressing.

To make a kale Caesar salad, you will need to massage the dressing into the kale leaves to soften them and help the dressing stick to the leaves. This can be done by combining the kale and dressing in a large bowl and using your hands to massage the dressing into the kale for a minute or two.

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 bunches curly kale, tough stems removed, leaves roughly chopped (about 4 quarts loosely packed leaves)
  • 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 5 ounces bread, roughly torn into 1-inch pieces
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 medium clove garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon)
  • 1 1/2 ounces Parmesan, finely grated (about 3/4 cup)
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons juice from 1 lemon
  • 1 small white onion or 2 shallots, finely sliced

DIRECTIONS

  1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). In a large bowl, massage kale with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, making sure to coat all surfaces, kneading with your hands to help break down the tougher pieces, about 2 minutes. Set aside while you prepare the croutons and the dressing.
  2. Combine bread pieces with remaining olive oil in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until broken down into pea-sized pieces. Season to taste with salt and pepper and pulse once or twice to combine. Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet. Place in the oven and bake until croutons are pale golden brown and crisp, about 20 minutes.
  3. Wipe out the food processor bowl. Combine mayonnaise, garlic, cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice in the food processor bowl and process until smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper if necessary.
  4. When croutons are cooked, add onions, dressing, and half of croutons to large bowl with wilted kale. Toss with hands until thoroughly coated. Serve sprinkled with remaining croutons.

Kale Caesar salad is a delicious and healthy salad option that is perfect for a lunch or dinner. It's easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and can be served as a main dish or as a side dish. Enjoy!