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Kale Pasta Caesar Salad Recipe

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4 from 81 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Kale Pasta Caesar Salad is a vibrant and healthy take on the classic Caesar salad. Combining tender al dente pasta with hearty massaged kale, crunchy croutons, and a creamy Greek yogurt-based Caesar dressing, it’s perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or easy dinner. The addition of cherry tomatoes adds a fresh burst of flavor, making this salad both refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 8 oz rotini or penne pasta
  • 4 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
  • 1 cup croutons
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

For the Caesar Dressing

  • 1/3 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Cook rotini or penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
  2. Massage the kale: Place the chopped kale in a large bowl and massage gently for 1–2 minutes until it softens and reduces in bitterness, making it more tender to eat.
  3. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine pasta and kale: Add the cooled pasta to the massaged kale in the large bowl, stirring to combine thoroughly.
  5. Add dressing and mix: Pour the Caesar dressing over the pasta and kale, tossing everything until evenly coated with the dressing.
  6. Incorporate toppings: Stir in the croutons, additional grated Parmesan cheese, and cherry tomatoes if using for extra freshness and crunch.
  7. Serve or chill: Serve immediately for the freshest, crunchiest texture, or chill the salad for 15–20 minutes if you prefer it cold.

Notes

  • Massaging the kale improves its texture and reduces its natural bitterness.
  • Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to increase the protein content and make it more filling.
  • For a vegetarian-friendly Caesar dressing, ensure the Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet.
  • Best served the same day to retain the maximum crunchiness of the croutons and freshness of the ingredients.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://justsosweet.com/kale-pasta-caesar-salad-recipe/