This Classic Vegan Caesar Salad is a perfect blend of crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy, tangy dressing that rivals the traditional version. Perfect as a light meal or a side dish, this salad is sure to become a staple in your vegan recipe collection. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup of croutons (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup of nutritional yeast
- Fresh black pepper (for garnish)
For the Vegan Caesar Dressing:
- 1/2 cup of raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes
- 1/4 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon of capers
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce (vegan)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- Drain and rinse the soaked cashews.
- In a high-speed blender, combine the cashews, water, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, capers, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more water if needed to reach the desired consistency. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and croutons.
- Pour the vegan Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to coat the lettuce and croutons evenly.
Step 3: Serve and Garnish
- Sprinkle nutritional yeast over the top of the salad for a cheesy flavor.
- Garnish with fresh black pepper.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, tangy flavors of this vegan Caesar salad.
Tips and Variations:
- Homemade Croutons: Make your own croutons by tossing cubed bread with olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, then baking at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crispy.
- Extra Protein: Add some grilled tofu or chickpeas for additional protein.
- Kale Caesar: Substitute or mix in some chopped kale for added texture and nutrients.
This Classic Vegan Caesar Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or a side salad, its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons make it irresistibly delicious. Enjoy this vegan twist on a classic favorite. Happy cooking!
