Description
The Crispy Chickpea Caesar Salad is a healthy and plant-based version of the classic Caesar salad, which traditionally uses romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing, often made with anchovies and Parmesan cheese. In this recipe, we replace croutons with crispy roasted chickpeas, giving the salad a crunchy, protein-packed element. The Caesar dressing can be made with Greek yogurt or a vegan alternative, keeping the dish creamy and satisfying while offering a lighter, healthier twist.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
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1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed – Chickpeas serve as the main source of protein and the star of the crispy texture in this salad.
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2 tbsp olive oil – This is used to roast the chickpeas, giving them that delightful crunch.
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1 tsp garlic powder – Adds a savory flavor to the chickpeas.
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1 tsp smoked paprika – Infuses the chickpeas with a smoky depth.
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Salt and pepper – Season to taste for that perfect balance of flavors.
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6 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped – The crisp, fresh base of the salad.
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative) – Adds a rich, salty element to the salad.
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1/4 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade) – The creamy, tangy dressing that ties everything together.
For Homemade Caesar Dressing (optional):
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1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or vegan alternative) – The creamy base for a healthier dressing.
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2 tbsp Dijon mustard – Gives the dressing a sharp, tangy flavor.
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (or vegan Worcestershire sauce) – Adds umami depth.
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2 tbsp lemon juice – For that refreshing citrusy zing.
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1 garlic clove, minced – Adds extra flavor to the dressing.
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1/4 cup olive oil – To emulsify the dressing into a smooth consistency.
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2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative) – For a cheesy flavor in the dressing.
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Salt and pepper – For seasoning the dressing to perfection.
Instructions
1. Make the Crispy Chickpeas:
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat ensures the chickpeas crisp up nicely.
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Pat the chickpeas dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This is crucial as moisture prevents the chickpeas from crisping properly.
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Toss the chickpeas in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are evenly coated with the seasoning.
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Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet. This ensures they roast evenly.
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Roast for 25-30 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid burning. The chickpeas should be golden and crispy.
2. Prepare the Caesar Dressing (If Making Homemade):
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In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
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Drizzle in olive oil slowly while whisking to create a creamy, smooth dressing.
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Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Salad:
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Toss the chopped Romaine lettuce in a large bowl with the Caesar dressing, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
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Add the crispy chickpeas and toss gently. Be careful not to crush the chickpeas, as they are the main crunchy element of the salad.
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Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired for extra flavor.
4. Serve:
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Serve the salad immediately to maintain the crispiness of the chickpeas. The freshness of the lettuce and the creaminess of the dressing paired with the crunch of the chickpeas make for an irresistible dish!
Notes
For an extra flavor boost, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon or a sprinkle of parmesan on top before serving. Want to keep it vegan? Just swap the dressing with a dairy-free version and skip the cheese. This salad is perfect as a light lunch or a hearty side—crunchy, creamy, and totally satisfying!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Crispy Chickpea Caesar Salad