This Vegan Kale Caesar Salad is a delicious and healthy take on the traditional recipe. Made with massaged kale, creamy cashew dressing, and crunchy homemade croutons, it’s a salad that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Kale Caesar Salad Recipe
Traditional caesar salad is far from vegan-friendly. With ingredients like parmesan cheese, anchovies, and egg yolk in the dressing, it’s hard to imagine how this classic could be made without animal products. But with a few simple swaps, you can enjoy all the familiar flavors of a caesar salad while sticking to a plant-based diet.
Here are just a few reasons you’ll love this recipe:
- It’s packed with nutrients. Kale is a nutritional powerhouse, and this salad is a great way to enjoy its benefits.
- The creamy cashew dressing is to die for. Forget bottled dressings! This homemade cashew dressing is made with simple ingredients and blends into a luxuriously creamy sauce that rivals the original.
- You can make it your own. Add your favorite veggies, swap out the kale for another leafy green, or use different nuts for the dressing. The options are endless!
Vegan Kale Caesar Salad Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Here’s what you need to make this delicious salad:
For the salad:
- 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
For the cashew dressing:
- ½ cup raw cashews, soaked for at least 2 hours
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the croutons:
- 1 cup cubed bread (any kind will work!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Soaked Cashews in a Bowl
How to Make the Vegan Kale Caesar Salad:
- Make the cashew dressing: Combine all of the dressing ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend until completely smooth. Set aside.
- Massage the kale: Place the chopped kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with a little olive oil and massage for 2-3 minutes, until the kale has softened and reduced in volume.
- Make the croutons: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Toss the bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Assemble the salad: Add the cherry tomatoes and red onion to the bowl with the massaged kale. Pour over the desired amount of cashew dressing and toss to combine.
- Serve: Divide the salad between bowls and top with croutons. Serve immediately.
Massaging Kale
Chef’s Tips for the Best Vegan Kale Caesar Salad:
“For extra flavor, try adding a tablespoon of capers to your dressing,” advises Chef Mia Thompson, a renowned vegan chef. “Their briny taste perfectly complements the other flavors in the salad.”
Here are a few more tips for making this salad the best it can be:
- Don’t over-massage the kale. You want it to be tender, but not mushy.
- Make sure your cashews are soaked. Soaking the cashews helps to soften them so that they blend into a completely smooth dressing.
- Taste and adjust. Once the dressing is blended, give it a taste and add more lemon juice, salt, pepper, or nutritional yeast to your liking.
- Get creative with toppings! This salad is delicious with all sorts of toppings. Try adding roasted chickpeas, vegan parmesan cheese, or avocado.
Vegan Kale Caesar Salad
Vegan Kale Caesar Salad: FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the components of this salad ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble it right before serving. The croutons will get soggy if left in the salad too long.
What can I use instead of cashews?
If you don’t have cashews, you can use another nut, such as almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds. Just be sure to soak them first for a creamier dressing.
What else can I add to this salad?
Get creative with your toppings! Roasted vegetables, chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh would all be delicious additions.
Can I freeze the leftover cashew dressing?
Yes, you can freeze the dressing in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
What kind of bread is best for croutons?
Any type of bread will work for croutons, but a sturdy bread like sourdough or ciabatta will hold its shape best.
This vegan kale caesar salad is a delicious and satisfying meal that is easy to make and good for you. Enjoy it as a light lunch or a satisfying dinner.
