This kale Caesar salad combines a few of my favorite things: nutrient-packed kale, crunchy croutons, salty Parmesan, and tangy homemade dressing. YUM.
All my friends and family know that I order a Caesar salad every single time I go out to eat. I’m fascinated by all the restaurant variations of this classic salad, especially if the dressing is made in-house. As much as a tried and true Caesar has my heart, it’s taken a backseat to this kale version lately. The flavor of the kale is so much deeper than lettuce, and I love how easy this salad is to make — you guys, it is truly an obsession!
How To Make a Kale Caesar Salad
Did I mention how quickly and effortlessly this kale Caesar salad comes together? That’s right… all you’ll need is 10 minutes and five ingredients for a salad that’ll change your life.
- Massage the kale: Place the chopped kale in a large bowl and massage it for a minute or so until it softens.
- Add the other ingredients and toss: Add the Caesar dressing and toss well, then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and toss again. Top the salad with croutons, more Parmesan, and freshly cracked black pepper.
Hot tip: Wondering which type of kale to buy? Curly kale is the most common variety (and the type that I usually buy), with a slightly tough texture. Lacinato (aka Tuscan) kale is more delicate, with a milder flavor and darker color.
Fun Additions
One thing about me is that I rarely stick to the recipe, and I love adding protein and other ingredients into my kale Caesar to make it a full meal. Think of it like a canvas for experimentation!
- Veggies: Add sweet cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, red onions, or bell peppers for extra color and veggie goodness.
- Protein: Fill up your belly with grilled chicken thighs, grilled steak, air fryer shrimp, or baked salmon.
- Toppings: I love crumbling the croutons into tiny pieces to add a crunch on top, but these air fryer chickpeas are also a favorite of mine. Don’t forget the shaved Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper!
Tips For the Best Kale Caesar Salad
I’ve had plenty of mediocre Caesar salads over the years, but I can promise you that this one raises the bar. Focus on the quality of the ingredients and taste as you go, and you’ll have the recipe for success.
- Massage the kale. This trick made me enjoy eating kale so much more! Massaging the leaves breaks down the cellulose, making them way more tender and less bitter. Make sure to massage gently and only do it for a minute or so — you don’t want to mash the leaves.
- Make the dressing yourself. Our homemade Caesar dressing is literally the best part of this recipe… my mouth is watering just thinking about it. It only takes 10 minutes to make, and the flavor is so worth it. If you don’t have the ingredients for it, though, feel free to use another dressing on hand.
- Try homemade croutons. This is your sign to make croutons yourself (it couldn’t be easier!). I love using up my leftover sourdough bread to make Italian air fryer croutons or 3-ingredient baked croutons.
- Adjust the flavors to your liking. To brighten up the salad, add a squeeze of lemon juice and/or lemon zest right before serving. If you want more of that classic “Caesar” flavor, chop up a few anchovies and add the paste into the dressing.
Hot tip: To attain the crumb-style croutons that many restaurants serve, place the croutons in a ziplock bag and crush them with your hands or a rolling pin.
Make Ahead
To save time in a rush, prepare the dressing and kale up to two days in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, toss everything together. Avoid adding the dressing too early to prevent soggy kale and croutons.
More Kale Recipes
- Kale and Mushroom Egg Bites — If you’re bored of your regular breakfast, try these cheesy egg bites
- Quinoa Kale and Avocado Salad — Packed with superfoods and tossed in a creamy ranch dressing
- Italian Sausage Kale Soup — A simple, light, and nourishing soup that tastes like home
- Air Fryer Kale Chips — Only three ingredients and perfect for snacking
Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 bunch kale stems removed, chopped
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- 1 cup croutons
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Place the chopped kale in a large bowl. Massage the kale for 1-2 minutes until it becomes tender and the color darkens.
- Add the Caesar dressing and toss well to coat all the leaves.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and toss again.
- Top the salad with croutons, more Parmesan, and freshly cracked black pepper.
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