Kale Caesar from Sweetgreen features fresh, nutrient-packed kale tossed with crisp romaine, shaved Parmesan, crunchy garlic croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing, delivering a vibrant and satisfying salad experience.
Equipments
- Salad bowl
- Salad tongs
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Vegetable peeler
- Grater or microplane (for Parmesan)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk (for dressing)
- Measuring spoons
- Salad spinner
Ingredients
- 1 bunch kale
- 1 head romaine lettuce
- 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup garlic croutons
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
Kale should be fresh and firm to ensure the salad has a nutrient-rich base with a slightly bitter flavor that contrasts well with the creamy dressing. Romaine lettuce must be crisp to add a refreshing crunch and balance the texture of the kale and croutons. Using high-quality shaved Parmesan cheese enhances the salad's savory depth, while garlic croutons bring a necessary crunch and garlicky punch to each bite. Measuring the Caesar dressing accurately prevents overpowering the salad, allowing the flavors to harmonize perfectly. Your Kale Caesar from Sweetgreen copycat menu will boast the same vibrant taste and satisfying texture when these ingredient tips are followed.
Instructions
- Wash and dry the kale and romaine lettuce using a salad spinner.
- Remove kale stems and chop leaves into bite-sized pieces on a cutting board.
- Chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
- Add chopped kale and romaine to the salad bowl.
- Use salad tongs to gently toss greens together.
- Add shaved Parmesan cheese and garlic croutons to the bowl.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk Caesar dressing until smooth.
- Pour Caesar dressing over the salad.
- Toss salad with tongs until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Kale Caesar from Sweetgreen copycat menu can be customized easily with alternative greens such as baby spinach or arugula if kale is not available or preferred. Your Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano or Asiago to maintain the cheesy flavor while introducing a slightly different sharpness. Garlic croutons can be replaced with toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch and a nutty twist. When preparing the Caesar dressing, if you lack certain ingredients like anchovy paste, you can omit it or use a splash of Worcestershire sauce as a substitute. Ensure to thoroughly wash and dry your greens using a salad spinner to achieve a crisp texture in your salad.
Tips
Ensure kale leaves are thoroughly dried after washing to prevent sogginess in your salad. Remove tough stems from kale, as they can be fibrous and unpleasant to eat. When adding Caesar dressing, start with half the recommended amount and taste before adding more to avoid overpowering the greens. Use a gentle tossing method with salad tongs to evenly coat your greens without bruising or wilting them.
Nutritions
Kale Caesar from Sweetgreen offers a nutrient-rich blend, with kale providing high levels of vitamins A, C, and K, along with calcium and antioxidants. Romaine lettuce adds fiber and hydration, while shaved Parmesan delivers a good source of protein and calcium, enhancing bone health. Garlic croutons contribute carbohydrates for energy, though they do increase the salad's calorie and sodium content. Your choice of Caesar dressing adds healthy fats, but be mindful of portion size to maintain balanced nutrition.
Storage
Store your Kale Caesar salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the greens from wilting. Keep the salad refrigerated and add the Caesar dressing just before serving to preserve the crispness of the kale, romaine, and croutons. Parmesan cheese should also be stored separately in a sealed container to avoid moisture buildup.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute kale with baby spinach or mixed greens for a milder, more tender texture while keeping the nutrient content high. Swap Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast to adjust flavor profiles or suit dietary preferences. For a twist on the dressing, try blending in avocado for extra creaminess or using a vegan Caesar dressing. Toast homemade croutons with garlic and olive oil for added freshness and crunch compared to store-bought options.
Allergies
Kale Caesar from Sweetgreen contains common allergens such as dairy from shaved Parmesan cheese and Caesar dressing, which typically includes ingredients like anchovies and eggs. The garlic croutons may contain gluten, making this dish unsuitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. If you have allergies, carefully check the ingredient list or consult with Sweetgreen staff to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
Sweetgreen's Kale Caesar salad combines nutrient-rich kale with a creamy, tangy Caesar dressing, offering a fresh twist on a classic favorite. The salad includes crunchy croutons, grated Parmesan, and grilled chicken or tofu, delivering a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. You'll appreciate the balance of health and indulgence, making it a popular choice for those seeking a nutritious yet flavorful meal. Attempting a copycat version lets you customize ingredients while enjoying the same wholesome taste at home.