The Best Kale Caesar Salad

Two of my favourite things combined, Kale and a good Caesar salad. Add to that some char-grilled or BBQ chicken and you’ve got a great tasting, healthy and protein rich recipe that can be made in a snap.

Ingredients

Croutons:
5 cups of 1-inch diced chunky wholemeal bread
1/4 cup olive oil
1 clove garlic, chopped finely (about 1 teaspoon)
1 teaspoon salt
pinch black pepper

Caesar Dressing:
1 clove garlic
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1.5 tbsp lemon juice
1.5 teaspoon white wine vinegar
pinch of salt
1/2 cup olive oil
1/3 cup grated Parmesan (use vegetarian Parmesan for vegetarian option)
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Salad:
Get the fresh, clean & washed kale leaves, tear the leaves in roughly bite size pieces.
2 large head romaine lettuce hearts, cut in half lengthwise, and then cut in half again lengthwise, then cut crosswise on a diagonal, to 1-inch wide strips
3 Tbsp grated Parmesan

Method

1. Char-grill 2-3 skinless chicken breasts, allow to cool a little and then slice and put to one side.

2. To prepare the croutons preheat oven to 200°C. Spread the bread cubes out in a single layer on a baking tray and place in the oven and bake until golden brown & crispy,  (approx 10 minutes). When ready remove from the oven and toss while still warm in a bowl with the olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper.

3. Place the vinaigrette ingredients into a blender or food processor. Purée until smooth.

4. Place the chopped kale and lettuce leaves into a large bowl adding the dressing and mixing until the salad is well dressed.

Add the croutons and the sliced chicken breast and a light sprinkling of Parmesan cheese if your diet allows. Serve and enjoy!

Tip: For extra crunch and nutrition try adding a sprinkling of sunflower seeds