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Kale Caesar Salad with Chickpea Croutons Recipe

A crunchy, creamy, and nutrient-packed twist on the classic Caesar salad—featuring crispy chickpeas instead of croutons and a bold, garlicky dressing.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:
  • 1 large bunch kale stems removed and chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • For the Chickpea Croutons:
  • 1 can 15 oz chickpeas, drained and patted dry
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp salt
For the Dressing:
  • ½ cup raw cashews soaked for 30 minutes
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp capers
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ cup water adjust for consistency
For Garnish:
  • ¼ cup nutritional yeast
  • Fresh black pepper

Method
 

Roast the Chickpeas
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss chickpeas with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
  3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, shaking halfway.
Massage the Kale
  1. Place chopped kale in a large bowl.
  2. Drizzle with olive oil and salt.
  3. Massage with your hands for 2 minutes until tender.
Make the Dressing
  1. Blend cashews, lemon juice, mustard, capers, garlic, salt, and water until smooth.
  2. Adjust thickness with more water if needed.
Assemble the Salad
  1. Toss kale with dressing until well coated.
  2. Top with roasted chickpeas and nutritional yeast.
Finish with black pepper.
  1. Serve and Enjoy
  2. Grab a bowl, dig in, and enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!

Notes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Protein: 12g

Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)

  • Vitamin A: 50%
  • Vitamin C: 40%
  • Iron: 20%
  • Calcium: 15%
  • Magnesium: 12%

Tips for the Best Salad

  • Massage the kale longer for a softer texture.
  • For extra crunch, bake the chickpeas a few minutes longer.
  • Store dressing separately to keep the salad fresh.
  • Add avocado for an extra creamy touch.

Final Thought

This salad is proof that healthy can be delicious. It’s crunchy, creamy, and downright addictive. Who knew kale could taste this good? 🥗