Kale Pasta Caesar Salad
This salad is a fusion of creamy Caesar salad and pasta salad. It features massaged kale, tender pasta, Parmesan, crunchy croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing. It’s rich, fresh, and satisfying — perfect as a side dish or a light main meal.
Time Required
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad:
3 cups kale, stems removed & chopped
3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle)
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
⅓ cup shaved or grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup toasted pine nuts or almonds (optional)
For the Caesar Dressing
½ cup Greek yogurt (or mayo for classic style)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce (or anchovy paste for authentic flavor)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook Pasta
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and cool slightly.
Step 2: Prep the Kale
1. Place kale in a large bowl.
2. Drizzle with a little olive oil and pinch of salt.
3. Massage for 1–2 minutes to soften.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
1. Whisk together yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, garlic, Worcestershire, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Adjust thickness with a splash of water if needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
1. In a large bowl, combine kale, pasta, onion, and tomatoes.
2. Toss with Caesar dressing until coated.
3. Top with croutons, Parmesan, and pine nuts.
Notes & Tips
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
Swap pasta with whole wheat or lentil pasta for more fiber & protein.
Make it ahead: store dressing separately, toss before serving.
Add avocado slices for creaminess.
Frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes — just skip Worcestershire or anchovies in the dressing.
Q: Can it be served cold?
Yes, this works as a chilled pasta salad for summer.
Q: How long does it last?
Up to 2 days in the fridge (best eaten fresh to keep croutons crunchy).
Nutritional Information
Calories: 360 kcal
Protein: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 15 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 4 g