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This Lemon Kale Caesar Salad brings together the creamy, tangy richness of Caesar dressing with the refreshing crunch of romaine lettuce and the earthy, nutritious bite of kale. It is a go-to summer meal topped with juicy grilled chicken and a shower of Parmesan, equally at home on a picnic table or your lunch desk.
One summer I made this for a last-minute barbecue using kale fresh from my garden. It turned out so well that even the kids forgot they were eating something green.
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: for creamy body and smooth texture choose a quality brand for best flavor
- Plain Greek yogurt: gives the dressing a tangy lift and adds protein thicker yogurt works best
- Grated Parmesan cheese: brings salty nutty depth always use freshly grated for full flavor
- Anchovy paste: delivers that true Caesar punch start with a little and add more if you love salty umami
- Lemon juice and zest: brightens every bite pick vibrant, heavy lemons
- Olive oil: for richness go with extra virgin for the freshest taste
- Fresh garlic: infuses sharpness chop it finely to avoid overpowering bites
- Black pepper: for subtle heat use freshly cracked if possible
- Kale: adds robust texture and nutrition look for deep green leaves avoiding wilted bunches
- Romaine hearts: bring classic crispness select heads that are tightly packed and bright
- Shredded Parmesan: for topping adds buttery finish use a microplane for optimum texture
- Croutons: provide crunch homemade or a bakery version elevates the salad
- Chicken breasts: round out the meal with lean protein pat them dry before grilling for best browning
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Caesar Dressing:
- In a small bowl whisk together mayonnaise Greek yogurt Parmesan anchovy paste lemon juice lemon zest olive oil garlic and pepper until the mixture is totally smooth and creamy cover and refrigerate until ready to use for the deepest flavor
- Massage the Kale:
- In a large mixing bowl toss torn kale with fresh lemon juice using your hands gently rub the lemon juice into the kale for several minutes this softens the leaves and takes away any toughness let it rest for up to an hour if you have time
- Combine the Greens:
- When ready to assemble add the prepared kale and chopped romaine into a big bowl and toss to mix evenly this distributes the flavor and texture in every bite
- Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle the creamy Caesar dressing over the greens along with more Parmesan toss until every leaf is coated to your liking only use as much dressing as you will eat right away for best results
- Finish and Serve:
- Top portions with freshly grilled chicken extra Parmesan and croutons add black pepper and lemon wedges serve chilled and enjoy the cool zesty flavors
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My favorite part is the crunchy kale after massaging with lemon it turns into something addictively snackable I remember my mom being shocked the first time she enjoyed seconds of this salad at our family cookout
Storage Tips
Store extra dressed salad in an airtight container for up to one day but know it is at its prime right after making For longer storage keep kale romaine and dressing separate layering greens in a bag with a dry paper towel helps preserve crunch
Ingredient Substitutions
For a lighter version swap the mayo with more Greek yogurt and use less cheese If you do not have anchovy paste a small splash of Worcestershire sauce can bring similar flavor For gluten free simply use gluten free croutons or skip them
Serving Suggestions
This salad works perfectly as a main course when topped with grilled chicken sliced steak or shrimp It also makes a bright side dish for any summer cookout try pairing it with grilled corn or a juicy burger
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Caesar Salad History
The original Caesar salad was created in Tijuana Mexico in the 1920s and did not actually include kale Over time people added kale for its nutrients and texture and lemon for extra zest making this a colorful modern spin on the classic
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I mellow the bitterness of kale?
Massage fresh lemon juice into the kale leaves. This softens the texture and tones down bitterness, creating a more pleasant chew.
- → Is it possible to make the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy lemon-Parmesan dressing ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- → What other proteins work well as a topping?
Grilled steak or shrimp are excellent alternatives to chicken. Both add delicious flavor and complement the salad.
- → How do I keep the greens crisp for leftovers?
Store kale and Romaine separately from the dressing in airtight containers with a paper towel to absorb moisture.
- → Can I substitute anchovy paste in the dressing?
You may use minced anchovy fillets or omit entirely for a milder flavor, though classic Caesar flavor will be lighter.