Description
A vibrant and creamy Avocado Kale Caesar Salad paired perfectly with crispy sweet potato fries. This recipe features a quick, dairy-free dressing made from avocado, garlic, lemon, and Dijon mustard, tossed with fresh kale and topped with Parmesan and pepitas for added crunch and flavor. Ideal for a healthy, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad and Dressing
- 1 avocado, divided
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional – see notes)
- 2 small cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed, chopped (5-6 cups)
- Parmesan cheese and/or pepitas for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Cut the avocado in half. Reserve one half for the salad. In a blender, combine the other half of the avocado with water, mayonnaise (if using), garlic cloves, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and salt. Blend until smooth. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Toss the Salad: Place the chopped kale in a large bowl and pour the prepared avocado dressing over it. Toss well to ensure the kale is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Add Toppings: Add a handful of pepitas and grated Parmesan cheese to the salad. Toss again gently to combine the flavors.
- Finish and Serve: Cube the reserved half of the avocado and scatter it on top of the salad. Serve immediately for the best freshness and texture. Enjoy your flavorful and nutritious Avocado Kale Caesar Salad!
Notes
- The mayonnaise is optional and can be omitted to make the dressing vegan; alternatively, replace it with a vegan mayo if desired.
- This salad pairs wonderfully with crispy sweet potato fries for a complete and delicious meal.
- Using pepitas adds crunch and extra nutrients, but you can substitute with toasted nuts or seeds if preferred.
- For best results, use fresh, tender kale and massage it lightly with the dressing to soften if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1 cup)
- Calories: 311
- Sugar: 1.2 g
- Sodium: 667.3 mg
- Fat: 26.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 6.1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: Estimated 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8.8 g
- Fiber: 4.2 g
- Protein: 11.7 g
- Cholesterol: 16 mg
