Who says a Caesar salad has to be ordinary? Sweetgreen’s Kale Caesar takes a classic favorite and gives it a modern, nutrient-packed twist. With hearty kale, crunchy toppings, and a creamy dressing that’s full of flavor, this salad is anything but boring. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and health, making it a go-to for lunch or a light dinner.
Sweetgreen Kale Caesar Recipe
We’re diving into recreating the Sweetgreen Kale Caesar, a salad loaded with bold flavors, hearty greens, and the perfect creamy Caesar dressing. Follow these step-by-step instructions to craft a restaurant-worthy dish right at home.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup toasted breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup roasted chickpeas (optional for extra crunch)
For the Caesar Dressing
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional, for authentic flavor)
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Kale
- After removing the stems, massage the chopped kale leaves with a drizzle of olive oil for about 2-3 minutes. This softens the leaves and enhances their flavor.
2. Combine the Greens
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the massaged kale with romaine lettuce to balance the textures.
3. Make the Caesar Dressing
- In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, anchovy paste if using, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
4. Mix the Salad
- Pour the prepared dressing over the greens and toss until evenly coated.
5. Add Toppings
- Sprinkle the salad with grated parmesan, toasted breadcrumbs, and (optional) roasted chickpeas for added crunch.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer to serving plates and enjoy immediately to savor the fresh and vibrant flavors of this Sweetgreen Kale Caesar.
Quick Nutrition Highlights
Here’s a quick breakdown of some key nutritional aspects:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notable Nutrients |
|---|---|---|
| Kale | 1 bunch | High in Vitamin K and Vitamin C |
| Greek Yogurt | 1/4 cup | Protein, Calcium |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp | Healthy Fats |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/4 cup | Calcium, Protein |
| Roasted Chickpeas (opt) | 1/4 cup | Fiber, Plant-Based Protein |
This recipe brings together healthy greens, a zesty Caesar flavor, and textural contrast for a delicious and satisfying salad.
Ingredients
Recreating the Sweetgreen Kale Caesar at home requires fresh, high-quality ingredients for both the salad and the creamy dressing. Below, we’ve broken it down into two categories for easy preparation.
For The Salad
- 1 bunch of kale (washed, de-stemmed, and finely chopped)
- 1 head of romaine lettuce (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor)
- 1/2 cup croutons (use your favorite store-bought or homemade version)
- 1 lemon (cut into wedges for optional garnish)
For The Dressing
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat based on preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for richness)
- 1 clove garlic (minced or finely grated for bold flavor)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (adds tanginess)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional but adds depth and umami)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (integral for creamy texture and flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (adjust for desired tang)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Once these ingredients are gathered, we’ll combine their vibrant flavors into a delicious and satisfying dish that perfectly mimics the flavor-packed Sweetgreen Kale Caesar salad.
Tools And Equipment
To craft the perfect Sweetgreen Kale Caesar, having the right tools and equipment is just as crucial as the ingredients. These tools ensure precision in preparation and help us achieve the authentic texture and flavors of the salad.
Essential Tools for Salad Preparation
- Cutting Board
A sturdy cutting board is essential for chopping kale and romaine lettuce. Opt for a non-slip board to make preparation safe and efficient.
- Chef’s Knife
A sharp chef’s knife ensures clean, precise cuts for the greens. This is key to getting evenly-sized kale pieces and creating thin, delicate strips of romaine.
- Salad Spinner
To maintain freshness and crunch, a salad spinner is ideal for thoroughly washing and drying the kale and romaine. Properly dried greens help the dressing cling to each piece.
- Large Mixing Bowl
A bowl spacious enough to toss the salad is necessary to coat every ingredient evenly with the dressing.
- Small Whisk
Use a small whisk to blend the dressing ingredients smoothly. This ensures the Greek yogurt, olive oil, and seasonings combine into a creamy texture.
- Garlic Press/Grater
Fresh garlic adds robust flavor to the dressing. A garlic press or fine grater helps you achieve a smooth and even paste.
- Zester
For that bright lemony tang, a zester is crucial to extract fine lemon zest without the bitter pith.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precision matters! Having a set of measuring cups and spoons ensures we add the exact amounts of dressing ingredients.
- Wooden Spoons or Tongs
Ideal for mixing and tossing without bruising the greens, wooden spoons or salad tongs are gentle and effective.
- Grater or Microplane
A grater or microplane is perfect for finely shredding parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top of the salad or into the dressing.
Optional, but Useful Additions
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Baking Sheet | Toast bread slices for making homemade croutons |
| Blender/Food Processor | Blend the dressing for an ultra-creamy finish |
| Citrus Squeezer | Extract fresh lemon juice effortlessly |
Directions
Recreating the Sweetgreen Kale Caesar Recipe at home is easier than you might think. With a few simple steps, fresh ingredients, and the right tools, you’ll have a flavorful, hearty salad ready to enjoy.
Prep The Kale
- Begin with one bunch of kale. Use your chef’s knife to strip the leaves from the tough stems. Discard the stems.
- Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces, ensuring consistent size for even texture.
- Add the chopped kale to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt over the leaves.
- Massage the kale using your hands for 1–2 minutes until it softens slightly and becomes more tender. Reserve for later use.
Make The Dressing
- In a small mixing bowl or food processor, combine the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Greek yogurt | 1/2 cup |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Grated parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic (minced or pressed) | 1 clove |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
- Whisk the ingredients thoroughly, or blend until smooth for a creamier texture.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Cover and refrigerate the dressing until ready to use.
Assemble The Salad
- In your large mixing bowl, combine the prepped kale with 2 cups of chopped romaine lettuce.
- Add 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1 cup croutons, and lemon wedges for garnishing.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad. Toss gently using salad tongs or wooden spoons to coat the greens and toppings evenly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the balance of crunchy, creamy, and savory goodness!
Tips For Success
To ensure our Sweetgreen Kale Caesar recipe stands out with the perfect balance of flavor and texture, we’ve gathered some essential tips and techniques. Follow these suggestions to elevate your homemade salad to the next level.
1. Prep Your Kale Properly
Kale is the star of this salad, so prepping it well is crucial.
- Strip and chop: Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
- Massage with salt: Rub the kale with a pinch of salt for about 2-3 minutes. This breaks down the fibrous texture, softens the leaves, and enhances their flavor.
2. Achieve Dressing Perfection
The creamy dressing ties the whole dish together. Use these tips to nail it every time:
- Whisk thoroughly: Blend the Greek yogurt, olive oil, and other ingredients until smooth for a cohesive texture.
- Taste as you go: Adjust salt, lemon juice, or parmesan to suit your taste preferences.
- Refrigerate before serving: Chill the dressing for at least 15 minutes before using; this melds the flavors beautifully.
3. Homemade Croutons for Crunch
If you have the time, we highly recommend making your croutons from scratch.
- Cut day-old bread into small cubes and toss with olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Bake them at 375°F for 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy. This adds freshness and allows you to control the flavor.
| Crouton Additives | Flavor Profile | Serving Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic powder | Boosts savory notes | Pair with creamy dressing |
| Dried oregano | Adds herbal aroma | Enhances the salad’s complexity |
| Grated parmesan | Cheesy extra crunch | Sprinkle atop completed salad |
4. Balance Your Greens
This recipe asks for kale and romaine lettuce.
- Kale adds heartiness: Its sturdy texture holds the creamy dressing well.
- Romaine adds freshness: The crispness lightens the salad and complements kale’s earthiness.
Make sure to wash both greens thoroughly and dry them completely with a salad spinner to prevent soggy greens.
5. Shave or Grate Parmesan Freshly
Use fresh parmesan cheese, not the pre-packaged kind. It melts into the dressing better and ensures a bold, cheesy flavor. A microplane grater works wonders for achieving a fine, airy texture.
6. Customizing Add-Ons
Elevate the flavor profile by experimenting with additional toppings:
- Proteins: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or a soft-boiled egg for extra substance.
- Seeds or nuts: Sprinkle sunflower seeds or toasted almonds for a nutty crunch.
- Pickled elements: A few pickled onions or capers introduce a zesty punch.
7. Serve Fresh
This salad tastes best when assembled just before serving. To save time, prep components like greens, croutons, and dressing separately and combine them right before eating. Keeping them separate prevents the salad from becoming soggy.
By implementing these pro strategies, we ensure every bowl of our Sweetgreen Kale Caesar delivers the perfect mix of crunch, creaminess, and savory excellence.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing components of the Sweetgreen Kale Caesar in advance is a fantastic way to streamline your kitchen prep while keeping the salad fresh and flavorful. With a little organization, we can assemble each element ahead of time, so it’s ready to toss together when needed.
1. Prepare the Kale
- Strip the kale leaves from the stems, chop them into bite-sized pieces, and store them in an airtight container.
- For optimal texture, massage the kale with a small pinch of salt or olive oil before storing. This step ensures the kale remains tender yet sturdy for days.
- Store the massaged kale in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
2. Make the Dressing
- The Greek yogurt-based Caesar dressing can be made up to 5 days ahead.
- Combine all dressing ingredients, including olive oil, garlic, parmesan, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice, in a jar or bowl. Whisk or shake until smooth.
- Store the dressing in an airtight container, like a mason jar, in the refrigerator.
- Pro tip: Let the dressing sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before use and give it a quick stir for perfect consistency.
3. Prepare the Croutons
- Homemade croutons can be baked and stored in advance. Simply toast bread cubes with olive oil, seasoning, and bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them at room temperature for up to 1 week.
4. Grate Your Parmesan Cheese
- For the freshest flavor, grate the parmesan cheese ahead of time.
- Use a microplane or fine grater and store the cheese in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Freshly grated parmesan stays good for about 5–7 days.
Make-Ahead Storage Summary
| Component | Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Kale (massaged) | Airtight container in refrigerator | 3–4 days |
| Dressing | Mason jar in refrigerator | 5 days |
| Homemade Croutons | Airtight container at room temp | 1 week |
| Grated Parmesan | Sealed container in refrigerator | 5–7 days |
5. Assemble Just Before Serving
- Keep each ingredient stored separately to maintain freshness.
- When ready to serve, layer the prepped kale, chopped romaine, and parmesan cheese in a bowl. Toss with the dressing and top with croutons and freshly squeezed lemon juice for that signature Sweetgreen Kale Caesar flavor.
Serving Suggestions
When enjoying our homemade Sweetgreen Kale Caesar, we can elevate the experience with thoughtful serving ideas that balance its flavors and textures. Here’s how we can serve it up for maximum appeal:
1. As a Starter or Side Dish
This hearty salad works beautifully as an appetizer or side dish. Serve smaller portions alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or vegetarian mains like stuffed bell peppers. The crisp kale and creamy dressing complement rich main dishes effortlessly.
2. Main Course Salad
To turn this into a satisfying entrée, we can add protein-rich toppings like:
| Protein Options | Suggested Portions |
|---|---|
| Grilled or baked chicken | 4-6 oz per serving |
| Seared shrimp | 6-8 pieces per serving |
| Crispy chickpeas | ½ cup per serving |
| Boiled or poached egg | 1 or 2 halves per serving |
| Marinated tofu cubes | ½ cup per serving |
Adding these extras will make the salad more filling while keeping it nutritious.
3. Build-Your-Own Salad Bar
Host a DIY Kale Caesar Bar for casual entertaining. Arrange the salad components—chopped kale, romaine lettuce, dressing, croutons, grated parmesan, and freshly sliced lemon wedges—in separate bowls. Provide optional toppings like roasted nuts, avocado slices, and proteins from the table above. This interactive setup allows guests to customize portions and flavors.
4. Pairing with Bread or Soup
For a comforting meal, serve this salad with warm, crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough. Alternatively, pair it with a bowl of creamy tomato soup or minestrone for a well-rounded dining experience.
5. Outdoor Picnics or Office Lunches
Our Sweetgreen Kale Caesar travels well for picnics or lunchboxes. Pack the salad ingredients separately and assemble them just before eating to maintain freshness. Store the dressing in a leak-proof container or small jar for easy transport.
6. Garnish with Extra Zest
For a sophisticated touch, garnish the finished salad with a dusting of lemon zest, a cracked black pepper sprinkle, or additional parmesan shavings. These small details add visual appeal and enhance the salad’s bold flavors.
Conclusion
The Sweetgreen Kale Caesar is more than just a salad—it’s a harmony of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and satisfying textures. By making it at home, we can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent. With the right preparation and a few simple techniques, this recipe transforms into a versatile meal perfect for any occasion. Let’s embrace the opportunity to elevate our salad game and savor every bite of this delicious creation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Sweetgreen’s Kale Caesar unique?
Sweetgreen’s Kale Caesar salad reimagines the classic Caesar by using hearty kale, crunchy toppings, and a creamy, flavorful dressing. It stands out as a nutritious yet indulgent option, perfect for both lunch and light dinners.
What ingredients are essential to recreate the Kale Caesar at home?
You’ll need kale, romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, croutons, lemon wedges, and a creamy dressing made from Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, grated parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
How should I prepare kale for the Kale Caesar salad?
Strip the kale leaves from the stems, chop them into bite-sized pieces, and massage with a bit of salt to make them tender and reduce bitterness.
Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days to keep it fresh.
Should I use freshly grated parmesan cheese?
Yes, freshly grated parmesan cheese is recommended for optimal flavor and freshness. Avoid pre-grated options as they may lack the same creamy texture and taste.
How can I make homemade croutons for the salad?
Slice bread into cubes, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and bake on a baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crispy, around 10-15 minutes.
What tools do I need to prepare this salad?
You’ll need a cutting board, chef’s knife, salad spinner, large mixing bowl, small whisk, garlic press, zester, measuring spoons, and optionally a blender for creamier dressing.
Can I customize the Kale Caesar salad?
Absolutely! Add protein like grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu for a more filling meal. You can also include extras like avocado, nuts, or roasted vegetables.
How should I store leftover salad components?
Store each component separately: massaged kale and chopped romaine in airtight containers, dressing in the fridge, croutons in a sealed container, and freshly grated parmesan in a cool, dry area.
When is the best time to assemble the salad?
Assemble the salad just before serving to ensure optimal crunch, texture, and flavor. Toss the massaged kale, romaine, toppings, and dressing right before eating.
Can the Kale Caesar be served as a main dish?
Yes! To serve as a main course, pair it with protein-rich toppings like chicken, shrimp, steak, or hard-boiled eggs for a balanced and satisfying meal.
How should I present the salad for entertaining?
Consider setting up a DIY Kale Caesar Bar with various toppings and dressings for an interactive dining experience. Garnishing with lemon zest or extra parmesan also enhances visual appeal.