Introduction
Looking to elevate your salad game? The Avocado Kale Caesar Salad with Sweet Potato Fries is the perfect fusion of health and indulgence. This vibrant salad features freshly chopped kale, a creamy avocado-based dressing, and topped with crunchy Parmesan or pepitas for added texture. Paired with crispy sweet potato fries, this dish is not just a meal but a delightful experience that satisfies both the palate and the body.
Ingredients
Avocado Caesar Dressing:
– 1 avocado, divided
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional)
– 2 small cloves garlic
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Kale Caesar Salad:
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed, chopped (5–6 cups)
– Parmesan and/or pepitas for topping
Sweet Potato Fries:
– 4 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fry shapes
– 1–2 teaspoons olive oil
– Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
55 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
Experience a delightful mix of flavors and textures in this Avocado Kale Caesar Salad coupled with sweet potato fries. This dish is not only visually appealing but packed with nutrients, making it ideal for lunch or dinner.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potato Fries
Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) with a baking sheet inside to heat up. In a bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven, arrange the fries in a single layer, and bake for 20 minutes. Flip the fries and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until crispy.
Prepare the Avocado Caesar Dressing
Cut the avocado in half. Reserve one half for the salad and place the other half in a blender. Add water, mayonnaise (if using), garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and salt to the blender. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Assemble the Kale Caesar Salad
In a large bowl, toss the chopped kale with the prepared dressing until well coated. Add a handful of Parmesan and/or pepitas, and toss to combine. Dice the reserved half of the avocado and gently mix it into the salad.
Serve
Serve the kale Caesar salad alongside the crispy sweet potato fries.
Notes
Vegan Option
To make the dressing vegan, omit the Parmesan and use vegan mayonnaise.
Alternative Dressing Ingredients
If you prefer not to use mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor, or omit it entirely for a lighter dressing.
Optional Ingredient
This recipe does not include anchovies, but you can add them if desired.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure the sweet potato fries become perfectly crispy.
Tossing Ingredients
Toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl to ensure even coating for optimal flavor and crispiness.
Blending for Dressing
Using a blender to combine the avocado, water, and other dressing ingredients guarantees a smooth and creamy consistency.
Assembling the Salad
Gently toss the chopped kale with the dressing to ensure every piece is well-coated without bruising the leaves.
Serving
Serve the kale Caesar salad alongside crispy sweet potato fries for a balanced and delicious meal.
FAQ
Can I make the dressing vegan?
Yes, omit the Parmesan and use vegan mayonnaise for a vegan Avocado Caesar dressing.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor or omit it entirely for a lighter dressing.
Is there a way to include anchovies in this recipe?
Yes, you can add anchovies to the dressing or the salad if desired for a traditional Caesar flavor.
How do I store leftover salad and fries?
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, while fries are best eaten fresh but can be stored in the fridge for a day. Reheat in the oven for crispness.
Conclusion
Enjoy a nourishing Avocado Kale Caesar Salad paired with crispy sweet potato fries for a delightful meal. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also provides essential nutrients, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious individuals. The creamy avocado dressing adds a rich flavor, while the crunchy fries offer a satisfying texture. Together, they create a harmonious balance that will leave you feeling both satisfied and energized.
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