Lemon Kale Caesar Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Lemon Kale Caesar Salad offers a fresh and tangy twist on a classic favorite. With crunchy homemade croutons, a zesty lemon dressing, and hearty kale, it’s a vibrant and nutritious option perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 large slices sourdough bread
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for croutons)
• 1 bunch curly kale (about 8oz)
• 2 tbsp lemon zest
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (for dressing)
• 1 garlic clove, grated or minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/3 cup olive oil (for dressing)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut sourdough bread into small cubes. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Heat a frying pan over medium-low heat and toast the bread cubes until golden brown. Remove from heat and let cool, then chop into smaller pieces if desired.
2. Step 2: Finely shred the kale leaves and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, grated parmesan, garlic, Dijon mustard, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Step 4: While whisking briskly, slowly pour the olive oil into the dressing in a steady stream to emulsify.
5. Step 5: Pour the dressing over the kale and use your hands to massage it thoroughly into the leaves, softening the kale and enhancing flavor.
6. Step 6: Toss the croutons, lemon zest, and fresh parmesan cheese into the salad. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• You can use any type of kale you prefer, such as Tuscan or baby kale.
• Freshly grated parmesan provides better flavor than pre-grated options.
• Feel free to substitute sourdough with Italian or multigrain bread for the croutons.

Storage

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep croutons separate if possible to maintain their crunch. Re-toss the salad before serving. The dressing can be stored separately for up to 3 days and whisked again before use.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for the croutons?

Yes, Italian, multigrain, or any sturdy bread works well for croutons. Just toast until golden and crisp.

How do I soften the kale for the salad?

Massaging the kale with the dressing helps break down the tough leaves, making them tender and more enjoyable to eat.

Lemon Kale Caesar Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 73 reviews

This Lemon Kale Caesar Salad combines crisp, finely shredded kale with a tangy lemon Caesar dressing and homemade crispy sourdough croutons. The dressing is creamy with a hint of garlic and freshly grated parmesan, perfectly massaged into the kale for a flavorful, healthy salad ideal for a light lunch or side dish.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 2 large slices sourdough bread
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 bunch curly kale (about 8oz)
• 2 tbsp lemon zest
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Lemon Caesar Dressing Ingredients

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 garlic clove, grated or minced
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/3 cup olive oil

Instructions

1. Toast the Croutons: Cut sourdough bread into small cubes. Toss them in olive oil and season with a pinch of salt. Heat a frying pan over medium-low heat and toast the cubed bread until golden brown, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Prepare Crouton Pieces: Remove the toasted croutons from the pan and let them cool. Use a sharp knife to chop them into even smaller bite-sized pieces.
3. Shred the Kale: Chop the kale finely until it is finely shredded. Transfer the kale to a large mixing bowl for easy tossing with the dressing.
4. Make the Lemon Caesar Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, grated parmesan cheese, garlic, dijon mustard, and black pepper until fully combined. While whisking briskly, slowly pour in the olive oil in a steady stream to emulsify the dressing.
5. Massage the Dressing into the Kale: Pour the prepared dressing over the shredded kale. Using your hands, massage the dressing deeply into the kale to soften the leaves and distribute flavor evenly.
6. Toss and Serve: Add the chopped croutons, lemon zest, and freshly grated parmesan cheese into the salad. Toss everything together gently and serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

• You can use any type of kale you prefer, such as curly kale, Tuscan kale, or baby kale.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese provides better flavor than pre-grated substitutes.
• Any bread, such as Italian or multigrain, can be used for making croutons, though sourdough is preferred.

Keywords: Lemon Kale Caesar Salad, kale salad, lemon Caesar dressing, homemade croutons, healthy salad, vegetarian