Prepare to fall in love with the most revolutionary salad that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious! Our Lightened Up Kale Caesar Salad is not just another boring green dish – it's a game-changing recipe that combines the robust nutrition of kale with the classic, creamy flavors of a traditional Caesar salad, but with a seriously smart nutritional twist. Imagine diving into a bowl of crisp, massaged kale dressed in a tangy, protein-packed Greek yogurt dressing that will make your taste buds dance and your body thank you!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Croutons for topping
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the kale. Rinse 4 cups of kale thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Shake off excess water and place the kale on a clean cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, chop the kale into bite-sized pieces. Transfer the chopped kale into a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the dressing. Combine 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well-blended.
- Once the dressing is mixed, add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Continue to whisk until the cheese is evenly incorporated into the dressing.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each and adjust according to your preference.
- Pour the dressing over the chopped kale in the large mixing bowl. Using your hands or tongs, gently massage the dressing into the kale. This helps to soften the kale and ensures that each piece is coated evenly.
- After the kale is well-dressed, let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the kale to soften slightly.
- Before serving, add croutons on top of the salad for added crunch and texture. You can use store-bought croutons or make your own by toasting bread cubes in the oven until golden brown.
- Toss the salad gently one last time to incorporate the croutons, then serve immediately. Enjoy your Lightened Up Kale Caesar Salad as a refreshing side dish or a light main course!
Tips
- Massage Your Kale Like a Pro: Don't just toss the kale – massage it! This technique breaks down the tough fibers, making the kale more tender and easier to eat.
- Customize Your Crunch: While the recipe suggests croutons, feel free to experiment with toasted nuts or seeds for added texture and nutrition.
- Prep Ahead: The dressing can be made up to 2 days in advance, making this a perfect meal-prep friendly recipe.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese can be less flavorful and sometimes contains anti-caking agents.
- Temperature Tip: Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes after dressing to allow the flavors to meld and the kale to soften slightly.Pro Hack: For an extra protein boost, add grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn this side dish into a complete meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
