Kale Caesar Salad with Shrimp
A modern twist on a classic Caesar! Hearty kale stands up to a creamy, tangy homemade Caesar dressing, topped with perfectly grilled shrimp and crunchy croutons. A satisfying and healthy meal in one bowl.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Prepare the Kale: Wash and thoroughly dry the kale leaves
- a.Remove the tough center ribs and chop or tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large salad bowl.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the Caesar Dressing: On a cutting board, finely mince the garlic cloves and anchovy fillets. Use the flat side of your knife to press and mash them together into a smooth paste. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolk, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and the garlic-anchovy paste until combined. While whisking vigorously and continuously, add the 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil in a very thin, slow stream until the dressing is creamy and emulsified. Stir in 1/4 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- 3
Cook the Shrimp: Pat the peeled shrimp completely dry with paper towels
- a.In a separate bowl, toss the shrimp with 2 tbsp olive oil, garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Heat a grill pan or large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are pink, opaque, and form a 'C' shape. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Remove from heat.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble the Salad: Pour about three-quarters of the dressing over the chopped kale. Using clean hands, massage the dressing into the kale leaves for 1-2 minutes. This crucial step softens the kale and reduces its bitterness. Add the croutons, 1/2 cup of shaved Parmesan, and the warm grilled shrimp to the bowl.
- 5
Serve: Toss gently to combine all ingredients
- a.Drizzle with the remaining dressing if desired. Divide the salad among four plates, top with an extra crack of black pepper, and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Massaging the kale is the most important step for a tender salad. Don't skip it!
- 2Ensure the kale is completely dry before dressing it; otherwise, the dressing won't adhere to the leaves properly.
- 3For a faster dressing, you can combine all dressing ingredients except the oil in a food processor or blender. Then, with the machine running, slowly stream in the oil to emulsify.
- 4Don't overcook the shrimp. They cook in minutes and become tough if left on the heat too long. A 'C' shape means cooked, while a tight 'O' shape means overcooked.
- 5The Caesar dressing can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- 6For extra flavor, toast your own croutons using day-old bread, olive oil, and garlic powder.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Replace the shrimp with grilled chicken breast, flaked salmon, or a can of drained chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Vegetarian/VeganVegetarian/Vegan
To make it vegetarian, omit the shrimp and anchovies. Use 1 tablespoon of drained capers and 1 teaspoon of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce in the dressing for a similar umami flavor. For a vegan version, also use a vegan mayo or cashew cream base for the dressing and vegan parmesan.
Different GreensDifferent Greens
For a more traditional Caesar, use crisp romaine lettuce instead of kale, or use a mix of both for varied texture.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the shrimp seasoning before grilling for a bit of heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Lean Protein
Shrimp is an excellent source of high-quality, lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Nutrient-Dense Superfood
Kale is one of the most nutrient-dense foods available, packed with vitamins A, K, and C, as well as antioxidants and fiber that support vision, bone health, and digestion.
Supports Heart Health
The homemade dressing uses extra virgin olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. These healthy fats help reduce bad cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.
Boosts Immunity
This salad contains powerful immune-boosting ingredients. Garlic has natural antimicrobial properties, lemon juice is high in Vitamin C, and the vitamins in kale all work together to strengthen your body's defenses.
Frequently asked questions
Each serving of this salad contains approximately 480-550 calories, depending on the exact amount of dressing, oil, and croutons used. It's a calorie-conscious but very satisfying main course.