Introduction
This innovative recipe brings together the vibrant flavors of Tuscan kale with a classic Caesar dressing twist, creating an elegant and nutritious salad that’s as delicious as it is healthy. The combination pays homage to traditional Italian cuisine while offering a fresh take on the beloved kale Caesar salad.
Tips for this recipe
– Use high-quality olive oil and aged Parmesan cheese for an authentic taste.
– Ensure your anchovy fillets are well drained to avoid overwhimation of saltiness in the dressing.
– Slightly undercook your kale to retain a slight crunch, which contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.
Why you will love this recipe
This Tuscan Kale Caesar Slaw is not just about satisfying taste buds; it’s an experience that offers health benefits without compromising on flavor. The robust kale paired with the rich, tangy dressing creates a balance of nutrients and tastes sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
8 anchovy fillets packed in oil, drained
1 garlic clove
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, divided (3/4 cup total)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 hard-boiled egg, peeled
14 ounces Tuscan kale or other kale, center stalks removed, thinly sliced crosswise (about 8 cups)
Advised equipments
– Kitchen Shears
– Mixing Bowls
– Salad Spinner
– Measuring Cups & Spoons
– Whisk or Spatula
– Egg Whisk Set
– Spoonula
– Salad Platter (optional)
– Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board
– Microplane Grater (optional)
History of the recipe
The Caesar salad, a cornerstone in American cuisine, dates back to the 1920s when its creator, an Italian immigrant named Caesar Cardini, invented it. It traditionally features romaine lettuce and Parmesan cheese dressed with lemon juice, olive oil, egg yolks, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, anchovies, mustard, and black pepper. The Tuscan Kale Caesar Slaw takes this classic concept to new heights by incorporating the hearty texture of kale into a modern reimagination of the dish that respects its rich history while embracing contemporary dietary trends favoring greens like kale.
Fun facts about this recipe
1. The name “Tuscan” suggests an inspiration from Tuscany, Italy, although the Caesar salad’s true origins are somewhat mysterious and linked to its creator’s inventive spirit rather than a specific locale.
2. Kale is often touted as one of the healthiest vegetables due to its high nutrient content—packing more vitamins C, K, and B6 per calorie than any other food. Adding kale into a classic Caesar salad not only introduces an exciting twist but also elevates it in terms of nutritional value.
3. The use of anchovy fillets is integral to the original recipe’s flavor profile, and their umami-rich essence serves as a bridge between traditional and modern interpretations by complementing kale’s earthy tones with its savory notes.
4. Lemon juice plays an essential role in both preserving and enhancing the freshness of ingredients, acting as an acid that balances the richness of fats within dressings like Caesar. Its inclusion in this recipe helps marry well-established culinary techniques with a novel spin on salad preparation.
