Kale Caesar Pasta Salad
Kale Caesar Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic Caesar salad, combining tender pasta with crisp kale, creamy dressing, and zesty Parmesan. This vibrant dish is perfect for summer BBQs or quick weeknight dinners, impressing both guests and family alike. With its rich flavors and satisfying crunch, this salad is sure to become a favorite at any table. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy yet indulgent meal that keeps health in mind without sacrificing taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups chopped fresh kale
- 8 oz fusilli pasta
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Cook the fusilli pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let cool.
- While the pasta cooks, wash and dry the kale leaves. Remove tough stems, tear into bite-sized pieces, and massage with olive oil until softened.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta and kale with Caesar dressing, mixing well.
- Fold in grated Parmesan cheese and croutons gently to maintain their crunch.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: You can substitute kale with spinach for a milder flavor. Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.