Lemony Kale Caesar Salad Dip

This creamy Caesar salad dip takes just 15 minutes to make and is packed with bold, tangy flavors. It’s the perfect party appetizer served with crispy crostini or pita chips for dipping.

Easy Caesar Salad Dip Recipe

• Quick and simple to make in just one bowl, so it’s perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Loaded with creamy, zesty Caesar flavor, everyone will love this delicious dip!

I know what you’re thinking – is this just Caesar dressing with kale mixed into it? NO! It is not. It’s creamy, thick, and perfectly dip-able. It has all your favorite flavors of Caesar dressing but the texture is totally different. The combo of sour cream and cream cheese creates the perfect base for dipping hearty pieces of crispy, crunchy crostini.

Ingredients for Caesar Salad Dip

• Kale: Adds a hearty, fresh base to the dip. You can substitute with spinach or arugula, but kale really holds up best to the creaminess of the dip. Plus, when you wilt it, it softens beautifully and becomes much more mild.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the cream cheese and sour cream. Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch but fresh really is best for this dip.
• Olive Oil: Helps tenderize the kale and adds a touch of richness.
• Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth, creamy base for the dip. Full-fat works best for creamy texture and delicious flavor.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and makes the dip extra creamy. Again, use full-fat for this recipe.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a bold, classic Caesar flavor. Garlic powder can be used if needed, but it won’t be quite as flavorful.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Brings depth and umami flavor to the dip.
• Fish Sauce: Adds that signature Caesar anchovy taste without actual anchovies. Start with one teaspoon and add more to taste.
• Dijon Mustard: Provides a slight tang and helps tie all the flavors together.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sharp, salty cheese that makes this dip taste like Caesar dressing. Romano or Asiago can be used as an alternative.
• Crushed Croutons (Optional): Adds a crunchy topping for extra texture.
• Crostini: Homemade or store-bought crostini are perfect for dipping.

How to Make Caesar Salad Dip

Massage the Kale: Add chopped kale, lemon juice, and olive oil to a medium bowl. Massage the kale with your hands until it begins to wilt slightly, then set aside while you prepare the creamy base.

Mix the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, Worcestershire, fish sauce, Dijon mustard, and a few pinches of salt and pepper. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.

Add More Yum: Add the wilted kale, grated Parmesan cheese, and plenty of fresh cracked black pepper.

Combine: Fold everything together and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

Make the Crostini: Throw together my easy 15-minute crostini for the perfect dipper!

Garnish and Serve: Top with extra Parmesan, crushed croutons, and a sprinkle of fresh cracked pepper. Serve with crostini for dipping.

Tips for Making Caesar Salad Dip

• Massage the kale well to break down its tough texture and make it more tender.
• Start with less fish sauce and add more to taste. It’s very flavorful.
• Make homemade crostini by brushing sliced baguette with olive oil and toasting until golden brown.

Make-Ahead Instructions

• You can make this dip 24-48 hours in advance.
• Prepare it as directed, cover tightly, and refrigerate.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.
• Add the toppings, garnish, and enjoy!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Stir and season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• crunchy crostini
• crispy garlic bread
• Ritz crackers
• pita chips
• sliced French baguette

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