A wholesome twist on the classic Caesar salad, this Kale Caesar Salad with Croutons features nutrient-rich kale tossed in a creamy, garlicky Caesar dressing and finished with crunchy homemade croutons and shaved Parmesan. It’s bold, fresh, and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is everything you love about a traditional Caesar but with added texture, nutrition, and bite from hearty kale leaves. The homemade croutons bring a satisfying crunch, and the robust dressing clings beautifully to the kale. It’s perfect as a light meal or a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Lemon juice
Dijon mustard
Anchovy paste (optional but recommended)
Mayonnaise
Parmesan cheese, grated and shaved
Salt and black pepper
Day-old bread, cubed (for croutons)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet. Bake for 10–15 minutes or until golden and crispy.
In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, anchovy paste, and mayonnaise until smooth.
Stir in grated Parmesan and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Place chopped kale in a large mixing bowl. Add a small drizzle of olive oil and massage the kale with your hands for 1–2 minutes until slightly softened.
Pour the Caesar dressing over the kale and toss to coat thoroughly.
Add the croutons and shaved Parmesan just before serving. Toss again lightly and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes (for croutons)
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or soft-boiled eggs.
Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free Parmesan and vegan mayo.
Anchovy-free: Skip the anchovy paste or use capers for a briny flavor alternative.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread for croutons or roasted chickpeas for crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store undressed kale in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Once dressed, it is best enjoyed within 24 hours to maintain texture. Keep croutons separate in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve crispness.

FAQs

Can I make the Caesar dressing in advance?

Yes, it can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Do I have to massage the kale?

Massaging helps soften the kale, making it more palatable and flavorful.

What kind of kale works best?

Lacinato (dino) or curly kale both work well, but curly kale holds more dressing in its ridges.

Can I skip the anchovy paste?

Yes, although it adds authentic depth. You can substitute with Worcestershire sauce or capers.

How do I make vegan Caesar dressing?

Use vegan mayo, nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and skip the anchovies.

How long will the croutons stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container, they remain crispy for up to one week.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Yes, but homemade dressing enhances flavor and freshness.

What’s a good cheese substitute?

Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

Can I use pre-cut kale?

Yes, but rinse and remove any large stems, then massage before using.

Can I serve this as a main course?

Absolutely. Add a protein like grilled chicken or tofu to make it a complete meal.

Conclusion

Kale Caesar Salad with Croutons is a bold, modern upgrade to a timeless favorite. With its creamy dressing, sturdy greens, and crunchy toppings, it offers a perfect mix of flavor and texture. It’s a smart choice for lunch, dinner, or even as a holiday side dish—healthy, hearty, and endlessly satisfying.

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