If you’re craving a crisp, fresh salad with a creamy dressing but prefer to skip the meat, look no further than this Vegetarian Caesar Salad. Packed with crunchy romaine lettuce, crispy croutons, and a rich, velvety dressing, this salad offers all the flavor and texture of the classic Caesar salad without the use of anchovies or meat-based ingredients. Whether you're looking for a side dish or a light meal, this vegetarian version of the beloved classic will satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling refreshed.

Why You'll Love This Vegetarian Caesar Salad

This salad brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that are both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. The creamy dressing is made with plant-based ingredients, ensuring that it’s suitable for vegetarians and vegans alike. The crispy croutons, paired with the smooth, tangy dressing, elevate the salad, making each bite a burst of flavor.

Whether you're hosting a gathering or looking for a quick lunch or dinner option, this vegetarian Caesar salad is versatile enough to be enjoyed by anyone.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Salad:

• 300g romaine lettuce (about 3 large heads)
• 60g homemade or store-bought croutons
• 40g grated Parmesan cheese (or a vegetarian alternative)
• 10g fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Caesar Dressing:

• 120g Greek yogurt (or vegan yogurt for a plant-based version)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (15g)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15g)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15g)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (5g)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder (5g)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (or vegan Worcestershire sauce, 5g)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the lettuce: Begin by washing and drying the romaine lettuce. Once dried, chop it into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Caesar dressing: In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste. For an extra zing, you can add a pinch of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
3. Toss the salad: Drizzle the prepared Caesar dressing over the chopped lettuce. Toss the ingredients together until the lettuce is well-coated.
4. Add the toppings: Sprinkle the croutons over the salad, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
5. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy this vegetarian twist on a classic Caesar salad. You can also add a few extra croutons or a squeeze of lemon for added flavor.

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Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

This salad offers a great balance of healthy fats from the olive oil, protein from the yogurt and Parmesan, and fiber from the romaine lettuce. It’s also a great source of vitamins A and K, essential for bone health and immune function.

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Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Vegetarian Caesar Salad

1. Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled tofu, chickpeas, or roasted vegetables like cauliflower to your salad. These additions provide extra protein and make the salad more filling.
2. Customize the Dressing: If you prefer a tangier dressing, increase the amount of lemon juice or add a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra acidity.
3. Make-Ahead Option: If you’re planning to prepare the salad in advance, keep the dressing and croutons separate from the lettuce. This will prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.
4. Vegan Version: To make this salad fully vegan, opt for a plant-based yogurt and use a dairy-free cheese alternative for the Parmesan.
5. Extra Crunch: For added crunch and flavor, consider using toasted nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, as a topping. It will give a unique twist to the texture.
6. Healthy Croutons: Make your own croutons by toasting whole grain or sourdough bread with olive oil and garlic powder. They’ll be fresh and flavorful.