Description
This Easy 15-Minute Kale Caesar Salad is a creamy, zesty, and crunchy twist on a classic Caesar, made with fresh kale, homemade dressing, and crispy croutons. A quick and healthy salad perfect as a side or a main dish.
Ingredients
4 cups chopped kale
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup croutons
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 garlic clove, grated
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan (for dressing)
1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Remove stems from kale and chop into bite-sized pieces.
2. Massage kale with a drizzle of olive oil for 1–2 minutes until softened.
3. In a bowl, whisk together mayo, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic, Parmesan, anchovy paste (if using), and olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over kale and toss until evenly coated.
5. Add croutons and grated Parmesan. Toss again.
6. Garnish with shaved Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon.
7. Serve immediately for best texture.
Notes
Massaging the kale is essential—it softens the leaves and reduces bitterness.
For extra crunch, toast your own croutons with garlic olive oil.
You can prepare the dressing ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 side salad
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: kale caesar salad, healthy caesar, quick salad