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Cacio e Pepe Kale and Fennel Caesar

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Cacio e Pepe Kale and Fennel Caesar is a vibrant and nutritious salad that reimagines the classic Caesar with a delightful twist. This dish features the bold flavors of fresh kale and crunchy fennel, complemented by a creamy tahini dressing enriched with garlic and black pepper. Topped with crispy chickpea-ciabatta crumbles, this salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with fiber and protein, making it a perfect choice for lunch or as a side at dinner. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to impress friends and family at any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium fennel bulb, trimmed, halved, and cored
  • 3 Tbsp. white apple vinegar
  • 1 tsp. granulated sugar
  • 1 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided
  • 1 large bunch (~9 oz.) lacinato kale, stemmed and thinly sliced into ribbons
  • 1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 6 oz. ciabatta bread, torn into small pieces (about 4 to 5 cups)
  • 5 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 tsp. granulated garlic (or garlic powder)
  • 1 tsp. coarse ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
  • 1 large garlic clove, grated
  • 1/4 tsp. kosher salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
  2. Thinly slice fennel using a mandoline and quick-pickle by tossing it with white apple vinegar, sugar, and salt; let sit for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Dry chickpeas on a towel, then mix them with torn ciabatta, olive oil, granulated garlic, black pepper, and salt; roast on a baking sheet for about 18–20 minutes.
  4. Massage kale with olive oil and salt in a bowl until softened.
  5. Prepare the dressing by whisking tahini, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, salt, and added water until smooth.
  6. Combine pickled fennel, roasted crumble mix, dressing, and kale; toss well before serving.

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