Crunchy Kale Caesar Salad

Crunchy Kale Caesar Salad

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Looking for a refreshing twist on the classic Caesar salad? This Crunchy Kale Caesar Salad recipe offers a delightful combination of crisp kale, savory Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons that elevates the traditional dish to new heights.

Kale, known for its robust texture and nutrient density, serves as the base for this salad, providing not only a satisfying crunch but also a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants, kale is a powerhouse of nutrition that supports overall health and wellness. The hearty leaves of kale stand up well to the dressing, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor.

The savory Caesar dressing is made from a blend of high-quality ingredients, including creamy mayonnaise, tangy lemon juice, and rich Parmesan cheese. This combination creates a smooth and flavorful dressing that coats the kale perfectly, enhancing its natural taste while adding a delightful creaminess. For those who prefer a healthier option, a homemade dressing can be prepared using Greek yogurt to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor, or you can experiment with adding fresh herbs to give it an extra layer of complexity.

To add an irresistible crunch, homemade croutons are incorporated into the salad. Made from day-old bread, these croutons are seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt before being baked until golden brown. This not only adds texture but also a depth of flavor that complements the creamy dressing and the earthy kale. Alternatively, for a quicker option, store-bought croutons can be used, although making them from scratch allows for customization of flavors and textures.

This crunchy kale Caesar salad is not only visually appealing with its vibrant green kale and golden croutons, but it is also incredibly versatile. It makes for a perfect light lunch, packed with nutrition to keep you energized throughout the day, or it can serve as a delightful side dish to accompany a variety of main courses, from grilled chicken to roasted vegetables.

Whether you are looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a nutritious meal at home, this salad provides a refreshing and satisfying alternative to the classic Caesar salad. Its combination of textures and flavors is sure to please anyone who tries it, making it a fantastic addition to any meal plan. Enjoy this delicious and healthy twist on a beloved classic and savor the benefits of eating well while indulging in a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients:

14 oz. (400g) can chickpeas, drained

2 tbsp. of olive oil

pinch of salt

1 tsp. of ground cumin

9 oz. (255g) kale leaves, stem removed & roughly chopped

14oz.(400g) can green lentils, drained

For the dressing:

⅔ cup (100g) cashews

6 tbsp. almond milk, unsweetened

½ tbsp. apple cider vinegar

2 tsp. tahini

1 tbsp. nutritional yeast

1 tbsp. lemon juice, pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the chickpeas onto a baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, a pinch of salt and the ground cumin.

   Stir to coat the chickpeas in the seasoned oil.

2. Then place the tray into the hot oven and cook for 10-15 minutes until the chickpeas become crunchy. Meanwhile, place the kale onto a separate baking sheet and drizzle with the remaining olive oil and season with salt.

3. Place the tray into the oven and cook for about 5 minutes until crispy. To make the dressing, place the cashews in a small pot and cover with water.

4. Bring to a boil and simmer on high for 5 minutes. Drain the cashews and place them into a food processor or high-speed blender. Add the remaining dressing ingredients and blend until smooth, adding a little more milk as required to reach the desired consistency. To serve, transfer the crispy kale and chickpeas into a big bowl.

5. Add the drained lentils, and drizzle over the dressing.

Tips:

For an extra crunch, consider adding roasted chickpeas or nuts.

Feel free to customize the salad with additional veggies like avocado or bell peppers.

Final Thoughts

This crunchy kale Caesar salad is not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. The creamy dressing, crunchy textures, and tangy flavors make it a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy this refreshing salad as a side or main dish!

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Give this recipe a try, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!

Whether you're a kale lover or looking to incorporate more greens into your diet, this crunchy kale Caesar salad is sure to become a new favorite. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it's a delicious way to enjoy the goodness of kale.