Description
A healthy, satisfying lunch featuring massaged Lacinato kale, homemade parmesan crisps, and a simple emulsified dressing. This salad stays crisp, keeps you full for hours, and comes together in about 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large bunch Lacinato (Dinosaur) kale (about 200g)
- 1 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, grated (100g)
- 1 cup croutons or extra parmesan crisps
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil (60ml)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste or mackerel (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Parmesan Crisps: Line a microwave-safe plate with a paper towel. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan in a thin circle. Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds until bubbly and golden. Cool for 2 minutes until hard. Repeat to make 4-6 crisps.
- Prep the Kale: Wash and thoroughly dry the kale. Remove tough stems and chop leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large mixing bowl.
- Massage the Kale: Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the kale. Using your hands, squeeze and rub the leaves for 2-3 minutes until they are darker green, softer, and reduced in volume by half.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified and creamy.
- Toss and Assemble: Pour the dressing over the massaged kale and toss to coat evenly. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Transfer to bowls, top with crumbled parmesan crisps, extra grated parmesan, and croutons. Serve immediately.
Notes
Lacinato kale is preferred over curly kale for better texture. Do not reheat or freeze this salad as the kale will become slimy. Store dressed kale in the fridge for up to 2 days, but add crisps just before eating to maintain crunch. If using bottled lemon juice, note that fresh is recommended for better flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 12
Keywords: kale salad, caesar salad, healthy lunch, meal prep, parmesan crisps, massaged kale, gluten-free option, vegan option