Description
This Kale Caesar Salad recipe combines hearty Lacinato kale with crispy bacon croutons, freshly shaved parmesan, and a rich classic homemade Caesar dressing. The kale is massaged with dressing to soften its texture, then topped with savory bacon and toasted bread croutons for a deliciously flavorful and satisfying salad, perfect as a side or light main dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 1 bunch Lacinato (dinosaur/tuscan) kale, stem removed and finely chopped
- ¼ cup freshly shaved parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp Classic Homemade Caesar Dressing
Bacon Croutons
- 6 pieces thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces (or substitute with 3 tbsp unsalted butter)
- 1½ cups bread, torn into smaller pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the Kale: Remove the stems from the kale, rinse thoroughly, and dry using a salad spinner or pat dry with paper towels. Slice the kale into about ¼-inch wide pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Cook the Bacon: In a pan over medium heat, add the bacon pieces and cook until they are crisped to your liking. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- Make the Croutons: In the same pan with the bacon fat, add the torn bread pieces. Toast and brown them evenly, tossing often to ensure all pieces are coated with the flavorful bacon fat. Alternatively, if you avoid bacon, cook the bread pieces with unsalted butter instead.
- Dress and Massage the Kale: Pour the Classic Homemade Caesar Dressing over the chopped kale. Using your hands, massage the dressing into the kale leaves until they start to wilt and soften. Let the dressed kale sit for 5 to 10 minutes to fully absorb the flavors and tenderize the leaves.
- Assemble the Salad: Transfer the dressed kale to a serving platter. Top with the crispy bacon pieces, toasted croutons, and freshly shaved parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, optionally alongside your favorite protein to complete the meal.
Notes
- Massaging the kale with dressing softens its tough texture, making it more enjoyable to eat.
- Using Lacinato kale is preferred due to its tender leaves and mild flavor.
- You can substitute bacon with unsalted butter for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Allowing the salad to rest after dressing enhances the flavor absorption.
- Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Kale Caesar Salad, Caesar Dressing, Bacon Croutons, Healthy Salad, Lacinato Kale Recipe, Homemade Salad Dressing
