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Crispy Kale Caesar Salad Recipe with Easy Parmesan Crisps to Impress

crispy kale caesar salad - featured image

A fresh and satisfying kale Caesar salad featuring tender massaged kale, creamy homemade Caesar dressing, and crunchy Parmesan crisps for a delightful texture contrast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large bunch curly kale, washed, stems removed, torn into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for massaging the kale)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for crisps)
  • 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 anchovy fillets, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup olive oil (preferably light or extra virgin)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for the dressing)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the kale: Strip the kale leaves from their thick stems and tear into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large bowl, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and gently massage until the kale softens and darkens, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Make the Parmesan crisps: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spoon tablespoon-sized mounds of grated Parmesan onto the sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon to form thin rounds. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until golden and crisp. Let cool before transferring to a plate.
  3. Prepare the Caesar dressing: In a small bowl or food processor, combine egg yolk, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, chopped anchovies, and lemon juice. Slowly whisk in olive oil in a steady stream to emulsify. Stir in 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Add a teaspoon of water if dressing is too thick.
  4. Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the massaged kale and toss thoroughly to coat every leaf. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Assemble and serve: Divide the dressed kale onto plates or a serving bowl. Top generously with Parmesan crisps. Serve immediately.

Notes

Massage kale well to soften but keep texture. Watch Parmesan crisps closely to avoid burning. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Substitute mayonnaise for egg yolk if preferred. Keep crisps and dressing separate until serving to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: kale salad, Caesar salad, Parmesan crisps, healthy salad, easy salad recipe, homemade Caesar dressing, crispy salad