Healthier Twist Baby Kale Caesar Salad
Baby kale makes Caesar salad more nutritious without sacrificing the creamy, garlicky flavors you crave. The tender leaves hold up better than romaine to heavy dressing and won’t wilt as quickly.
This version uses Greek yogurt in the dressing to cut calories while keeping that rich, tangy taste. You’ll get more protein and probiotics than traditional Caesar.
Why Baby Kale Works Better Than Regular Kale
Baby kale leaves are harvested young, so they’re tender and mild compared to mature kale’s tough, bitter leaves. They don’t need massaging or special prep—just a quick rinse and they’re ready.
The smaller leaves also distribute more evenly in the bowl, so every bite gets the right ratio of greens to dressing. Regular kale would overpower the Caesar flavors and create an unpleasant chewy texture.
Must-Have Items
Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing That Actually Tastes Good
The key is using full-fat Greek yogurt and balancing it with real mayonnaise. All yogurt makes the dressing too tangy and thin, while all mayo is too heavy.
Anchovy paste gives deeper flavor than whole anchovies and blends smoothly without chunks. If you’re hesitant about anchovies, start with half the amount—you can always add more, but you can’t take it back.
Healthier Twist Baby Kale Caesar Salad
Ingredients
Dressing
Toppings
Equipment Needed
- Large salad bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
Instructions
- Prep kale: Wash baby kale leaves thoroughly and pat completely dry with paper towels or use a salad spinner. Remove any thick stems. Place kale in large salad bowl.
- Make dressing: In small mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, olive oil, anchovy paste, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and salt until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
- Dress kale: Pour dressing over kale and toss with clean hands or tongs for 1-2 minutes until every leaf is coated. The kale should look glossy and slightly wilted.
- Add toppings: Add 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and croutons to the salad. Toss gently to distribute. Top with remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving (1 serving)
