Kale dressing isn't the obvious thing to reach for when there's a bag of kale in the fridge — the obvious thing is to sauté it with garlic, or blend it into something green and virtuous. But this is better than both of those. Two versions: one Mediterranean with EVOO and lemon, one Asian-inspired with peanut oil, sesame and soy. Both come together in under five minutes, keep in the fridge for three or four days, and do considerably more work than their ingredient lists suggest.

Kale Dressing — Ingredients

Makes approximately 100ml. Keep refrigerated, bring to room temperature and shake before using.

Mediterranean-Style (EVOO)

• 35g kale leaves, stems removed
• 3–4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1–2 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar
• 1 small clove garlic
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: 1 tsp Dijon mustard or a pinch of chilli flakes

Asian-Inspired (Peanut & Sesame)

• 35g kale leaves, stems removed
• 2 tbsp peanut oil
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
• Optional: pinch of chilli flakes or a small clove of garlic

Method

Roughly chop the kale.

Mediterranean-style: blitz the kale with the olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, garlic, and mustard if using, until smooth. Adjust seasoning.

Asian-style: blitz the kale with the peanut oil, sesame oil, soy sauce or tamari, vinegar or lime, and garlic if using, until smooth. Adjust seasoning.

Add a splash of water if you prefer a thinner kale drizzle. Store in the fridge for 3–4 days.

The Mediterranean version works particularly well over fish — if that direction appeals, the perfect dressing for fresh fish is worth a look alongside it. For something richer and nuttier, the sesame–tahini dressing does similar work in a different register.

Both versions are good over roasted vegetables, grilled meat, noodles, or grain bowls — wherever you'd normally reach for a dressing that does a bit more than most.

This kale dressing recipe is part of my Sauces, Salsas & Dressings collection, a guide to proper sauces from the Casa Adora kitchen — homemade condiments, dressings, and everything in between.
Find more recipes and food adventures here.
Wonky photos, proper sauces, genuine adventures – The Flexible Chef