Lemon Kale Caesar Salad
User Reviews
5
Lemon Kale Caesar Salad
Description
This salad uses kale as the base, finely chopped for better texture and easier eating. The croutons are made from sourdough bread cubes tossed with olive oil and toasted until golden brown, then further chopped for a fine crunch. The lemon Caesar dressing is emulsified by whisking mayonnaise with lemon juice, grated Parmesan, garlic, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and a steady stream of olive oil. Massaging this dressing into the kale tenderizes the leaves and evenly coats each bite.
The salad features tangy and creamy elements from the lemon and mayonnaise, earthy Parmesan, and aromatic garlic, balanced by the hearty kale and crisp croutons. Lemon zest adds a fresh brightness that complements the dressing. Served immediately, this salad offers a pleasant combination of textures and flavors, with croutons providing crunch, kale a slight chew, and dressing a smooth coating.
Ideal as a side dish or light lunch, the salad pairs well with grilled proteins or can be served alone for a nutritious option. Kale varieties such as curly, Tuscan, or baby kale work well. Using freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor over pre-grated versions. The recipe allows variations in bread choice for croutons depending on preference.
Ingredients
salad ingredients
- 2 sourdough bread large slices
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 kale about 8oz, curly, bunch
- 2 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated
lemon Caesar Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated
- 1 garlic clove, grated or minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/3 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Cut sourdough bread into a small cubes and toss in olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt. Heat a frying pan over medium-low heat. Toast cubed bread until golden brown.
- Remove the croutons from the pan and allow to cool. Use a sharp knife to chop into even smaller pieces.
- Chop kale pieces until it is finely shredded. Place kale in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, prepare lemon caesar dressing. Whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, parmesan cheese, garlic, dijon, and pepper until fully combined. While moving the whisk briskly, pour the olive oil into the bowl in a steady stream.
- Pour dressing over the kale and use your hands to really massage the dressing into the kale. Toss the croutons, lemon zest and fresh parmesan cheese into the salad and serve.
Notes
- Any kale variety can be used; finely chopping improves texture.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives better flavor than pre-grated options.
- Sourdough, Italian, or multigrain bread can be used for croutons according to taste.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 271 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1g | |
| Calories | 271kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 13g | 4% |
| Protein | 7g | 14% |
| Fat | 22g | 34% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4g | 24% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 12g | 60% |
| Trans Fat | 0.01g | 1% |
| Cholesterol | 10mg | 3% |
| Sodium | 369mg | 15% |
| Potassium | 67mg | 1% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 287IU | 6% |
| Vitamin C | 8mg | 9% |
| Calcium | 168mg | 17% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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