Go Back
The Caesar salad has long been a staple of both casual and upscale dining, celebrated for its bold flavors and satisfying textures. Traditionally made with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons, it has maintained its status as a beloved choice for salads worldwide. However, in recent years, there has been an exciting shift towards healthier, plant-based options that cater to the growing demand for nutritious meals. Enter the Crispy Chickpea Caesar Salad—a modern, vibrant twist on the classic favorite that not only satisfies your cravings but also packs a nutritional punch. With the addition of crispy chickpeas, this recipe elevates the traditional Caesar, infusing it with a delightful crunch and a wealth of plant-based benefits.

Crispy Chickpea Caesar Salad

Looking for a fresh and healthier twist on a classic favorite? Try this Crispy Chickpea Caesar Salad! With roasted chickpeas adding a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, it’s a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant ingredients like romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a creamy Caesar dressing, this salad is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to gatherings. Enjoy a nutritious meal that’s both delicious and quick to prepare!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative)

1/4 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Fresh lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for roasting the chickpeas.

    Prepare the Chickpeas: In a mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas with the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the chickpeas are well-coated with the seasoning.

      Roast the Chickpeas: Spread the seasoned chickpeas in a single, even layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure to stir the chickpeas halfway through the cooking time to ensure they roast evenly.

        Prepare the Salad Base: While the chickpeas are roasting, thoroughly wash the romaine lettuce and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and add both the lettuce and tomatoes into a large salad bowl.

          Combine Ingredients: Once the chickpeas are finished roasting, allow them to cool for a few minutes. Then, add the warm chickpeas to the salad bowl with the chopped romaine and halved cherry tomatoes.

            Add Croutons and Cheese: Sprinkle the croutons over the salad mixture, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese (or your choice of vegan alternative).

              Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the entire salad. Toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that everything is evenly coated in the dressing.

                Serve: Serve the salad immediately, accompanied by fresh lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing the lemon over the salad just before eating adds a bright, zesty flavor. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful salad!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings