Caesar Salad

Craving a classic Caesar salad but looking to keep it vegan and keto-friendly? This Vegan Caesar Salad is your perfect solution! With crispy romaine, a creamy, tangy dressing, and crunchy homemade croutons, this salad packs a flavor punch while staying low in carbs. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, it’s an excellent choice for anyone following a keto vegan lifestyle.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped (the crisp foundation of your salad)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (for a sweet burst of flavor)
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (for a zesty kick)
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced (for refreshing crunch)

For the Vegan Caesar Dressing:

• 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked in water for at least 2 hours (for creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (to brighten up the dressing)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for depth and tang)
• 1 tablespoon capers (for that signature umami kick)
• 1 clove garlic (for aromatic goodness)
• 1/4 cup water (to adjust consistency)
• Salt and pepper to taste (to enhance flavors)

For the Croutons:

• 1 cup low-carb bread, cut into cubes (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste (to season)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the croutons.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the cubed low-carb bread with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

2. Make the vegan Caesar dressing.
In a blender, combine soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, capers, garlic, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the salad.
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber. Drizzle with the vegan Caesar dressing and toss until everything is evenly coated.

4. Top with croutons.
Once the salad is dressed, add the homemade croutons on top for that delightful crunch. You can also sprinkle additional nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy touch.

5. Serve and enjoy!
Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. Enjoy the bold flavors and textures of your Vegan Caesar Salad!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Keto and Vegan Friendly. With low-carb bread and a creamy dressing made from cashews, this salad fits perfectly into a keto vegan diet.
• Rich in Nutrients. Packed with fresh vegetables and healthy fats, it’s a nutrient-dense meal that keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
• Versatile and Delicious. This salad can easily be customized with your favorite veggies or additional protein sources like chickpeas or tofu.

Tips for Success:

• Customize your veggies. Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like avocado, radishes, or bell peppers for additional flavors and textures.
• Make it ahead. Prepare the dressing and croutons in advance and store them separately for quick assembly later.
• Play with seasonings. Adjust the garlic and mustard levels in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.

This Vegan Caesar Salad is more than just a salad; it’s a delightful experience packed with vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. It perfectly satisfies your cravings while aligning with your dietary goals. Ideal for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish at gatherings, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. With its creamy tahini dressing, crunchy homemade croutons, and crisp romaine lettuce, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the deliciousness of this plant-based twist on a classic salad that everyone can enjoy!!