Description
Zesty lemon kale caesar salad delivers a fresh Mediterranean twist on classic comfort food. Rich parmesan and crisp croutons complement hearty kale, ensuring a nutritious and delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 large bunch curly kale, stems removed and chopped (about 6 cups)
- ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated
- 1 cup croutons
Salad Preparation Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Fresh cracked black pepper (to taste)
Dressing Ingredients:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
- 12 tablespoons water
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Transform the robust kale leaves into a silky, tender base by gently massaging with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Work the leaves thoroughly with fingertips for 2-3 minutes until they soften and darken, releasing their vibrant green hue.
- Craft a zesty, creamy dressing by whisking together mayonnaise, tangy Dijon mustard, bright lemon juice, fragrant lemon zest, umami-rich Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and finely grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust the consistency with a small splash of water, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Drizzle the velvety dressing over the prepared kale, using tongs to ensure each leaf is generously coated with the lemony, savory mixture. Sprinkle crisp, golden croutons across the salad for textural contrast.
- Garnish with delicate shavings of Parmesan cheese and a final crack of black pepper to elevate the visual appeal and flavor profile. For optimal taste and texture, serve immediately or chill for up to half an hour before presenting.
Notes
- Massage kale thoroughly to break down tough fibers, making it more tender and easier to digest, which helps improve the salad’s overall texture and palatability.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright, vibrant flavor that cuts through the richness of the Parmesan and mayo-based dressing.
- Adjust dressing consistency by adding water gradually, ensuring a smooth, clingy sauce that coats each kale leaf perfectly without becoming too runny.
- Prepare croutons from day-old bread for maximum crunch and to reduce food waste, creating a more sustainable and budget-friendly salad option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg