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The Caesar salad has long enjoyed a place at the heart of culinary traditions, celebrated for its crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons. However, as plant-based diets gain traction and vegan alternatives become more mainstream, the classic Caesar is evolving. Enter the Crispy Chickpea Caesar Salad—a vibrant, nutrient-dense rendition that swaps traditional ingredients for wholesome ones, without compromising on flavor or texture.

Crispy Chickpea Caesar Salad

Discover a new favorite with this Crispy Chickpea Caesar Salad, transforming the classic dish into a vibrant, vegan delight. Enjoy roasted chickpeas for crunch, fresh romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a creamy vegan dressing that’s easy to make. Packed with protein and nutrients, this salad is both satisfying and nourishing, perfect as a main course or side. Dive into the recipe and customize it with your favorite ingredients for a delicious twist on a beloved favorite!
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Ingredients
  

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup vegan Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)

1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy, savory flavor)

Croutons (store-bought or homemade), for topping

Fresh lemon juice, to taste

Extra freshly cracked black pepper, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chickpeas:

    - Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

      - In a medium-sized mixing bowl, toss the drained chickpeas with the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix until the chickpeas are fully coated with the seasoning.

        - Spread the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chickpeas are crispy and golden brown. Remember to shake the pan halfway through to ensure even cooking.

          Prepare the Salad Base:

            - While the chickpeas are baking, rinse and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Place it in a large salad bowl to form the base of your salad.

              - Add the halved cherry tomatoes and thinly sliced red onion on top of the romaine.

                Combine and Dress the Salad:

                  - Once the chickpeas are finished roasting, allow them to cool for a few minutes. Then, gently fold them into the salad bowl with the lettuce, tomatoes, and onion.

                    - Drizzle the vegan Caesar dressing evenly over the salad and toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.

                      Serve:

                        - Sprinkle nutritional yeast generously over the top of the salad to add a delicious, cheesy flavor.

                          - For an extra crunch, add croutons just before serving.

                            - Finish the dish with a drizzle of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors and a generous sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for extra zest.

                              Enjoy:

                                - Serve immediately while the chickpeas are warm for the best texture. Enjoy this crispy and refreshing salad as a satisfying lunch or side dish!

                                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4