Caesar salad is a timeless classic loved by many, but traditional recipes often include anchovies and raw eggs, making it less appealing for vegetarians. Luckily, this vegetarian Caesar salad recipe delivers all the creamy, tangy, and crunchy goodness you crave — without any animal products or fish.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a quick dinner idea, this salad is perfect. You get crisp romaine lettuce, garlicky croutons, a luscious dressing made with plant-based ingredients, and a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan-style cheese that ties it all together.
This recipe is not only easy to make but also highly customizable, so you can tweak it to your tastes or dietary needs. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens while indulging in a rich, flavorful dressing.
Ready to upgrade your salad game? Let’s dive into how to make this delicious vegetarian Caesar salad from scratch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian Caesar salad is a fresh take on a beloved dish, perfect for those who want the classic flavors without compromising their dietary choices. The dressing uses cashews and nutritional yeast to create that creamy, cheesy texture and umami punch traditionally achieved with Parmesan and anchovies.
It’s quick to prepare, requiring minimal chopping and no cooking, except for toasting the croutons to golden perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just experimenting with meatless meals, this salad will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
And the best part? It’s versatile!
Add grilled tofu or your favorite roasted veggies for a heartier meal, or keep it light alongside your favorite main dishes. If you like this, be sure to check out other delicious recipes like Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe and Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for more plant-based inspiration.
Ingredients
- 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cashews, soaked in hot water for 15 minutes
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons capers, drained
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups day-old bread cubes (for croutons)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for croutons)
- Optional: vegan Parmesan-style cheese or grated hard tofu for topping
Equipment
- Food processor or high-speed blender
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Instructions
- Prepare the croutons: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss the bread cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and crispy. Set aside to cool.
- Make the dressing: Drain the soaked cashews and add them to your food processor or blender. Add the nutritional yeast, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, capers, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Blend the mixture while slowly drizzling in the 1/4 cup olive oil until the dressing becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more lemon juice or salt if desired.
- Prepare the lettuce: Wash and thoroughly dry the romaine lettuce. Chop into bite-sized pieces and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the lettuce and toss gently to coat all the leaves evenly. Add the croutons and toss lightly again.
- Serve immediately: Sprinkle with vegan Parmesan-style cheese or your preferred topping. Serve fresh for maximum crunch and flavor.
Tips & Variations
For best results, use day-old bread for your croutons—it crisps up better and absorbs less oil.
Soaking cashews is key to achieving a creamy dressing without a gritty texture. If short on time, soak in hot water for at least 15 minutes.
Want to make this salad gluten-free? Swap the bread cubes for gluten-free croutons or toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts.
For an extra protein boost, add grilled chickpeas or crispy tofu cubes.
If you love a smoky twist, stir in a pinch of smoked paprika or add roasted red peppers to the dressing before blending. For a vegan Caesar with a spicy kick, a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes works wonders.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Protein | 7 g |
Fat | 22 g |
Carbohydrates | 15 g |
Fiber | 4 g |
Sugar | 2 g |
Sodium | 320 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegetarian Caesar salad shines as a standalone light meal or pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. For a protein-packed plate, serve it alongside grilled tempeh or a hearty bean stew.
It also complements dishes like Lamb Tenderloin Recipes if you want a surf-and-turf style dinner with vegan flair. For appetizer ideas to start your meal on the right note, try the Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes collection for more inspiration.
To make your salad more filling, consider adding roasted vegetables such as sweet potatoes, beets, or even grilled asparagus. This adds a delicious depth of flavor and a variety of textures, making your salad satisfying and nutritious.
Conclusion
This vegetarian Caesar salad recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the beloved flavors of a classic Caesar without compromising your dietary preferences. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make it both nourishing and delicious.
The combination of crunchy romaine, crispy homemade croutons, and the unique cashew-based dressing proves you don’t need traditional ingredients like anchovies or eggs to create an unforgettable salad.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe is a go-to for quick, healthy, and satisfying meals. Don’t forget to experiment with the toppings and add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own.
For more exciting and diverse recipes, check out our other favorites like the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe or the refreshing Halibut Dip Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy your vibrant, vegetarian Caesar salad!
📖 Recipe Card: Caesar Salad Recipe Veg
Description: A fresh and flavorful vegetarian Caesar salad with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons. Perfect as a light meal or side dish.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT5M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup vegetarian Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Wash and chop the romaine lettuce.
- In a large bowl, combine lettuce and cherry tomatoes.
- In a small bowl, mix dressing with lemon juice and garlic.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Add croutons and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drizzle olive oil on top before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 12 g
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