
This Tahini Kale Caesar with Sweet Potato Fries became my answer to busy weeknight dinners when I wanted something nutritious but fun. Between the garlicky tahini dressing and those crisp fries, this meal keeps everyone at the table happy while sneaking in plenty of greens.
I first threw this together on a rushed Tuesday and my partner immediately declared it a new favorite. Now it is our go-to when we want something healthy but crave comfort food.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes: Choose firm potatoes for crisp fries and leave the skin on for extra fiber
- Olive oil: Helps everything get golden and delicious in the oven
- Garlic powder: Boosts the savory flavor of the fries
- Cayenne: Gives a spicy kick but you can leave it out if you like things mild
- Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together use flaky salt for finishing if you have it
- Tahini: Choose a smooth runny tahini for the creamiest dressing
- Lemons: Brightens the dressing choose juicy lemons and roll them before cutting to get more juice
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds tang and a little sweetness to balance the dressing
- Fresh garlic: Brings a punchy sharpness use fresh not jarred
- Kale: Buy bunches of curly or lacinato kale pick dark green crisp leaves
- Avocado: Slices add creaminess and healthy fats
- Pepper: Freshly ground has the most aroma and taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep and Bake the Fries:
- Cut sweet potatoes into even sized fries so they cook at the same rate toss them with olive oil garlic powder cayenne optional salt and pepper Layer them in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet Bake at 450 degrees for about 25 to 30 minutes Flip after 15 minutes for best golden edges
- Make the Tahini Caesar Dressing:
- Combine tahini lemon juice apple cider vinegar olive oil and peeled garlic cloves in a food processor or bowl Blend or whisk until the dressing is silky smooth Add a splash of water at a time to reach your favorite creamy pourable consistency Season with salt and pepper Taste and adjust lemon or salt as you like
- Toss the Kale:
- Chop the kale into small bites Place in a big bowl Pour on the dressing and use clean hands to massage the kale for two to three minutes Massaging makes it tender and extra tasty
- Build Your Plates:
- Pile each plate with the kale caesar salad Add a generous handful of sweet potato fries Tuck in slices of creamy avocado Finish with a twist of fresh pepper on top and serve right away

My favorite moment with this dish is when my dad kept trying to guess what made the dressing so rich and could not believe it had no cheese or mayo The tahini does all the work and keeps things light
Storage Tips
Store leftover salad and fries separately in airtight containers in the fridge The fries reheat best in an oven or toaster oven at 375 degrees Dab with a paper towel to remove any moisture from the fries before reheating The kale salad keeps its flavor but the avocado will brown so slice just before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have tahini try sunflower seed butter it makes a similar creamy base Lemon can be swapped with a splash of red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar For a twist you can add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast to the dressing for a cheesy flavor Regular potatoes work if you are out of sweet potatoes
Serving Suggestions
This bowl is perfect as a lunch or light dinner To turn it into a full meal for big appetites add roasted chickpeas or sliced grilled tofu If you have company try a platter presentation so everyone can build their own bowl

Cultural Context
Caesar salad was invented in Mexico by an Italian American chef and usually includes anchovies and Parmesan but this vegan version uses tahini to mimic the creamy texture Sweet potato fries bring a modern nutritious spin and add vibrant color
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I get crispy sweet potato fries?
Toss sweet potato strips evenly in olive oil and spices, then spread them out on a single layer on a hot baking sheet. Flip halfway through baking for even crispiness.
- → Can I use another leafy green instead of kale?
Yes, sturdy greens like romaine or Swiss chard can work well, though massaged kale holds up best to tahini dressing.
- → How do I thin the tahini Caesar dressing?
Add water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. Lemon juice also helps brighten the flavor and loosen the mixture.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Store components separately and assemble just before serving to keep fries crisp and salad fresh.
- → What toppings pair well with this meal?
Try adding roasted chickpeas, toasted pepitas, or a squeeze of additional lemon over the assembled dish for extra texture and tang.