Pin This vibrant, plant-based Caesar salad is a refreshing take on the classic, featuring crispy roasted chickpeas as a high-protein alternative to traditional croutons. Tossed in a rich and creamy cashew-based dressing, it offers a satisfying, dairy-free experience that is perfect for a quick lunch or a healthy main dish.
Pin The heart of this recipe lies in its homemade dressing, which uses a blend of soaked cashews, Dijon mustard, and white miso paste to recreate the tangy, umami-rich profile of a traditional Caesar. It's a wholesome meal that doesn't compromise on the bold flavors you love.
Ingredients
- Roasted Chickpeas
- 1 can (15 oz / 400 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cashew Caesar Dressing
- 3/4 cup (100 g) raw cashews, soaked for 2–4 hours and drained
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) water
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp capers
- 2 tsp white miso paste
- 2 tsp nutritional yeast
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salad
- 2 medium heads romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/4 cup (20 g) vegan Parmesan (store-bought or homemade; optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- (Optional) 1 cup (100 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- (Optional) Thinly sliced red onion
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- Pat chickpeas dry with a clean towel. In a bowl, toss chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 3
- Roast chickpeas for 20–25 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crisp. Let cool slightly.
- Step 4
- Meanwhile, prepare the cashew dressing: Combine soaked cashews, water, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, capers, miso, nutritional yeast, garlic, salt, and pepper in a high-speed blender. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down sides as needed. Adjust seasoning or thin with more water if desired.
- Step 5
- In a large bowl, toss chopped romaine lettuce with enough cashew dressing to coat.
- Step 6
- Top with roasted chickpeas, vegan Parmesan, and any optional veggies like cherry tomatoes or red onion. Finish with extra black pepper to taste.
- Step 7
- Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, ensure the chickpeas are completely dry before tossing them with oil and spices to achieve maximum crispiness. If you are making this ahead of time, store the dressing, chickpeas, and lettuce separately and assemble just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this recipe nut-free, simply substitute the cashews in the dressing with sunflower seeds. You can also add extra crunch by including homemade or store-bought gluten-free croutons alongside the chickpeas. The addition of cherry tomatoes or red onion can provide extra pops of color and flavor.
Serviervorschläge
This Caesar salad is best served immediately while the chickpeas are still warm and crunchy. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing glass of sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.
Pin Enjoy this wholesome and flavorful Vegan Roasted Chickpea Crouton Caesar Salad. It is a perfect example of how simple, plant-based ingredients can be transformed into a classic favorite that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary preferences.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do you achieve crispy roasted chickpeas?
Pat chickpeas dry and toss them in olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper before roasting at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- → What ingredients create the creamy cashew dressing?
The dressing blends soaked raw cashews, water, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, capers, white miso paste, nutritional yeast, garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- → Can the salad be made nut-free?
Yes, substitute sunflower seeds for cashews in the dressing to accommodate nut-free preferences.
- → What optional toppings enhance the salad?
Vegan Parmesan, cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion can be added to enhance texture and flavor variety.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, by omitting croutons or using gluten-free vegan Parmesan, this salad fits gluten-free dietary needs.