Caesar Salad with Roasted Chickpeas

This Caesar salad with a twist transforms a classic into a satisfying healthy meal. The roasted chickpeas add a protein-packed crunch that elevates the entire dish while keeping it nutritious. After discovering this recipe during my journey to eat more plant-based proteins, it quickly became my go-to lunch option for busy weekdays.

I first created this recipe when hosting friends who were vegetarian but still wanted something satisfying and protein-rich. The roasted chickpeas were such a hit that even my meat-loving husband requests this salad regularly as a main dish.

Ingredients

• Chickpeas: Provide plant-based protein and create the perfect crunchy topping
• Olive oil: Helps the chickpeas crisp up beautifully in the oven
• Garlic powder: Offers savory depth without burning like fresh garlic might
• Smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smoky flavor that complements the Caesar dressing
• Romaine lettuce: Provides the classic crisp base and holds up well to the toppings
• Cherry tomatoes: Add juicy sweetness that balances the savory elements
• Parmesan cheese: Brings authentic Caesar flavor with its nutty saltiness
• Caesar dressing: Ties everything together with its creamy garlic goodness
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the whole dish with color and herbal notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Turn your oven to 400°F and allow it to fully preheat. This high temperature is crucial for getting the chickpeas properly crispy rather than just dried out.

Prepare the Chickpeas:

After draining and rinsing the chickpeas, take time to thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels. This step is absolutely essential for achieving maximum crispness. Remove any loose skins you find as they can burn in the oven.

Season the Chickpeas:

Place the dried chickpeas in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil, ensuring each chickpea gets coated. Sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over the chickpeas and toss until every chickpea is fully coated with the seasoning mix.

Roast to Perfection:

Arrange the seasoned chickpeas on a baking sheet, making sure they are in a single layer with space between them. Overcrowding will create steam and prevent crispiness. Roast for 20-25 minutes, giving the pan a good shake halfway through to ensure even browning.

Prepare the Salad Base:

While the chickpeas roast, wash and thoroughly dry your romaine lettuce before chopping it into bite-sized pieces. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half. Combine these ingredients in a large salad bowl.

Assemble the Salad:

Once the chickpeas are golden and crispy, allow them to cool for about 2 minutes before adding them to the salad. This brief cooling helps them retain maximum crunch when they hit the salad.

Dress and Finish:

Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients. Work quickly but carefully to distribute the dressing without crushing the delicate lettuce leaves.

Garnish and Serve:

Add the shaved Parmesan cheese on top, distributing it evenly throughout the salad. Sprinkle with the freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately for the best experience.

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The smoked paprika in this recipe is truly transformative. I discovered its power when I accidentally used it instead of regular paprika one day, and the depth it added to the roasted chickpeas was remarkable. Now I keep a premium Spanish smoked paprika in my pantry specifically for this dish.

Make Ahead Options

This Caesar salad can be partially prepared in advance if you keep the components separate. The chickpeas can be roasted up to two days ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They may lose some crispness but can be refreshed in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes before using. The lettuce can be washed, dried and chopped up to one day ahead and stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container with a paper towel to absorb moisture. Assemble everything just before serving for the freshest result.

Dressing Variations

While store bought Caesar dressing works perfectly in this recipe, making your own can take it to another level. A simple homemade version can be made by whisking together 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan, and salt and pepper to taste. For a vegan alternative, substitute the mayonnaise with blended silken tofu and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. I personally love adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce to my homemade dressing for extra umami depth.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty salad works wonderfully as a standalone lunch or light dinner. To make it part of a larger meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for non vegetarians. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of tomato soup or a slice of crusty garlic bread. For entertaining, I like to serve this salad family style on a large platter with the dressing on the side, allowing guests to add as much or as little as they prefer. The visual appeal of the colorful components makes it a showstopper on any table.

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This salad is as visually stunning as it is delicious—perfect for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I make sure the chickpeas get really crispy?

For extra-crispy chickpeas, thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning. Remove any loose skins, spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet with space between each chickpea, and don't overcrowd the pan. Roast at 400°F for the full 25 minutes, shaking halfway through. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet to maintain crispness.

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare components separately but assemble just before serving. Roast the chickpeas up to 3 days ahead and store in an airtight container at room temperature. Prep the lettuce and tomatoes up to a day ahead. Add dressing and chickpeas immediately before serving to maintain the optimal texture and prevent wilting.

→ What can I use instead of Caesar dressing?

Great alternatives include Greek yogurt-based dressings, lemon vinaigrette, tahini dressing, or a simple olive oil and lemon juice combination. For a vegan option, try avocado-based dressings or nutritional yeast dressings that mimic the umami flavor of traditional Caesar.

→ How can I make this salad more filling?

Add more protein by including grilled chicken, salmon, or hard-boiled eggs. Increase the heartiness with additional roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Mix in cooked quinoa or farro for extra fiber and nutrients. You can also add avocado for healthy fats that will keep you satisfied longer.

→ Is there a way to make this salad vegan?

Yes! Skip the Parmesan cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan alternatives. Use a vegan Caesar dressing (many brands offer plant-based versions) or make your own with cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. The roasted chickpeas already provide a plant-based protein source.

→ How long will the roasted chickpeas stay crispy?

Roasted chickpeas maintain peak crispness for about 4 hours after cooking. They'll gradually soften when exposed to air or mixed with dressing. For maximum crispiness, store leftover roasted chickpeas separately from the salad in an uncovered container at room temperature, and add them just before eating.