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Cacio e Pepe Kale Salad

Cacio e Pepe Kale Salad is a vibrant and nutritious twist on the classic Roman dish. This refreshing salad features crunchy kale, rich Pecorino Romano cheese, and a zesty kick from freshly cracked black pepper. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a healthy meal, this easy-to-make salad combines bold flavors with simple ingredients, making it a delightful addition to any table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups kale, chopped
  • 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry kale leaves. Remove tough stems and chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the kale. Sprinkle with salt and massage the leaves for about two minutes until softened.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, minced garlic, black pepper, and Pecorino Romano cheese to create the dressing.
  4. Pour the dressing over the kale and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Allow to sit for 5-10 minutes for flavors to meld.
  6. Serve in bowls or on plates, drizzling with extra olive oil if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas. Substitute kale with spinach or arugula for a milder flavor. To enhance texture, add cherry tomatoes or toasted nuts.