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Kale Caesar Pasta Salad

Kale Caesar Pasta Salad
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Kale Caesar Pasta Salad is a fresh and nutritious take on the classic Caesar salad, combining hearty kale with tender pasta and a creamy, tangy Caesar dressing. This flavorful and versatile salad is perfect as a healthy lunch, side dish, or meal prep option, offering balanced textures and ample room for customization to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

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Salad Base

  • 4 cups fresh kale, washed, stems removed, and chopped
  • 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or similar), cooled
  • 1 cup crunchy croutons
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Caesar Dressing

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Kale: Wash and thoroughly dry the kale. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Massage the kale with a small amount of olive oil and salt until it softens and becomes vibrant in color to reduce bitterness and enhance tenderness.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Allow to cool completely before mixing.
  3. Prepare the Caesar Dressing: Whisk together minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, anchovy paste (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and Parmesan cheese until creamy and smooth. Alternatively, use a high-quality store-bought Caesar dressing.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the massaged kale, cooled pasta, and dressing. Toss gently to coat evenly. Add croutons and extra Parmesan cheese, mixing lightly to incorporate.
  5. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and intensify before serving.

Notes

  • Massage the kale to transform tough leaves into tender greens that blend well with pasta.
  • Use fresh garlic and lemon juice in the dressing for optimal brightness and flavor.
  • Chill the salad to deepen flavor and create a cohesive dish.
  • Start with less dressing and add more as needed to avoid over-coating.
  • Add croutons just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: Kale Caesar Pasta Salad, healthy pasta salad, kale salad, Caesar salad, easy salad recipe, vegetarian pasta salad

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