Lemon Kale Caesar Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad takes the beloved Caesar to a whole new level with the addition of kale and a bright lemony twist. The kale adds a hearty texture and extra nutrients, while the creamy lemon Caesar dressing brings a burst of flavor with every bite. The grilled chicken breasts add lean protein, making it a complete meal that’s light yet satisfying. Plus, the homemade dressing is simple to make, and the addition of croutons or lemon wedges provides extra crunch and zest.

Ingredients

For the Caesar Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons anchovy paste (more or less to taste)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

For the Salad:

• 4 cups kale, torn into bite-sized pieces
• Juice from ½ a lemon
• 2 Romaine hearts, torn or cut into bite-sized pieces (3-4 cups)
• 1/4 cup fresh shredded Parmesan cheese
• Fresh black pepper, to taste
• Croutons (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving
• 2 chicken breasts

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Chicken:

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

For the Caesar Dressing:

1. In a small bowl or blender, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, anchovy paste, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, and pepper.
2. Blend or whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more anchovy paste, lemon juice, or pepper, if desired.

For the Salad:

1. In a large bowl, toss the torn kale with the juice of ½ a lemon. Massage the kale for about 1-2 minutes to soften it.
2. Add the torn Romaine hearts and shredded Parmesan cheese to the kale and toss gently to combine.
3. Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
4. Add freshly ground black pepper to taste and sprinkle with croutons if desired.

To Serve:

1. Arrange the sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad.
2. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, croutons, and lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty touch.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Omit the grilled chicken and add extra veggies like roasted chickpeas or avocado for a satisfying vegetarian salad.
• Grilled vegetables: For a smoky flavor, add grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to the salad.
• Extra crunch: If you enjoy more crunch, add some nuts such as toasted almonds or walnuts along with the croutons.
• Dairy-free option: For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free yogurt and vegan Parmesan, or substitute nutritional yeast for the cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, store the salad and dressing separately, as the kale and romaine will wilt when dressed.
• Reheating: The grilled chicken can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove. However, it’s best to eat the salad fresh, as the greens will lose their texture after being dressed.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing instead of homemade?

Yes, you can use store-bought Caesar dressing if you’re short on time. However, homemade dressing offers a fresher and more customizable flavor.

Can I skip the anchovy paste in the dressing?

If you’re not a fan of anchovy paste, you can omit it, but it adds a unique depth of flavor to the dressing. Alternatively, you can replace it with a little extra Dijon mustard for some added richness.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the Caesar dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a good stir before using.

How can I make this salad spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes to the dressing or sprinkle some freshly sliced jalapeños on top of the salad for an extra kick.

Can I use other greens instead of kale and romaine?

Yes, you can substitute the kale and romaine with other greens like spinach, arugula, or mixed greens if you prefer.

Can I use a different protein for the salad?

Absolutely! Grilled shrimp, salmon, or even a plant-based protein like tofu would be great alternatives to chicken.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, or roasted sweet potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

Is the Caesar dressing dairy-free?

No, the dressing contains mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese. To make it dairy-free, you can substitute the yogurt and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives.

How do I make the kale less tough?

Massaging the kale with lemon juice helps soften it and makes it more tender. You can also try using baby kale, which tends to be more tender than mature kale.

How long will the salad keep in the fridge?

The salad is best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the chicken and salad separately. The kale can hold up for a couple of days, but the Romaine lettuce will wilt after a day.

Conclusion

This Lemon Kale Caesar Salad is a refreshing and nutritious take on a classic favorite. The tangy lemon Caesar dressing, complemented by the hearty kale and crispy chicken, makes this salad a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a light dinner, meal prep, or a flavorful side dish for any occasion. With its balance of flavors and textures, this salad is sure to become a new staple in your recipe collection!

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