Crispy Kale Caesar Salad

Lacinato kale massaged with creamy vegetarian Caesar dressing, roasted chickpea croutons, and shaved Parmesan.

👅Flavor: Bright lemon, garlicky dressing, salty Parmesan, and crunchy chickpeas.
Bowl of kale Caesar salad with chickpeas
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Prep Time
15 minutes
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Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
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Servings
4 side salads
easy
Cuisine
American, Modern
Exotic level
brunch-bistro
Difficulty
easy
Diet
vegetarian
Devices used
Oven
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Explore this recipe

Required Equipment

  • Sheet pan
  • Large bowl
  • Whisk
  • Chef's knife

Utilized Devices

Oven

Cooking Techniques

  • roasting
  • massaging greens
  • whisking
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Ingredients

  • 425 gChickpeasrinsed and dried
  • 30 mlOlive oildivided
  • 3 gSmoked paprika
  • 5 gKosher salt
  • 250 gLacinato kalestems removed
  • 50 gGrated Parmesan
  • 30 gToasted panko
  • 120 gPlain Greek yogurt
  • 30 mlLemon juice
  • 15 mlDijon mustard
  • 15 mlVegetarian Worcestershire
  • 3 gGarlic clovegrated
  • 30 mlWater
  • 3 gBlack pepper
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Instructions

1

Dry chickpeas thoroughly, toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, paprika, and half the salt, then roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes until crisp.

2

Whisk yogurt, lemon juice, mustard, Worcestershire, garlic, water, remaining salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil until smooth.

3

Destem kale, slice into ribbons, and massage with half the dressing for 1 minute to soften.

4

Fold in chickpeas, Parmesan, toasted panko, and additional dressing to taste; serve immediately.

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Chef Tips

  • Dry chickpeas in a clean towel to ensure crisping.
  • Make extra dressing—it holds 5 days chilled and doubles as dip.
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Nutritional Highlights

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Calories per serving
310
  • High in fiber from kale and chickpeas
  • Greek yogurt dressing keeps calories lighter than mayo

Dietary Notes

Compliant With

vegetarian

Allergens

  • Contains dairy (Parmesan, yogurt)
  • Contains gluten (panko)

FAQ

Can I make it vegan?

Use vegan yogurt, omit Parmesan, and sub nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.

How far ahead can I dress the kale?

Up to 2 hours—the hearty leaves stay crisp while absorbing flavor.

Nutrition

Calories310
Protein14 g
Carbs32 g
Fat14 g