Discover a fresh twist on a classic favorite with our Vegan Caesar Salad featuring Grilled Lettuce and Herby Croutons! This delightful dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Imagine perfectly grilled romaine lettuce, drizzled with a creamy, zesty dressing, and topped with crunchy, herb-infused croutons. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this salad is sure to impress. Ready to elevate your salad game? Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that can be whipped up in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head romaine lettuce
- 1 cup croutons
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup vegan mayo
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing by combining vegan mayo, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. While heating, carefully wash the romaine lettuce and pat dry with clean kitchen towels.
- Cut the romaine lettuce head in half lengthwise, keeping the core intact to hold the leaves together during grilling.
- Lightly brush the lettuce halves with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Place the lettuce cut-side down on the hot grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes until char marks appear and the lettuce is slightly wilted but still crisp.
- Remove grilled lettuce from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
- For the croutons, tear day-old bread into rustic chunks. Toss with olive oil, dried herbs like thyme and oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Toast the croutons in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Plate the grilled lettuce, drizzle generously with prepared vegan Caesar dressing, sprinkle with toasted herby croutons.
- Finish with an extra dusting of nutritional yeast and fresh cracked black pepper before serving.
Tips
- Choose the Right Lettuce: For the best results, select a fresh head of romaine lettuce with crisp, vibrant leaves. This will ensure a satisfying crunch after grilling.
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill pan or outdoor grill is hot before adding the lettuce. This will create those beautiful char marks and enhance the flavor.
- Customize Your Croutons: Feel free to get creative with your croutons! Use different types of bread, such as sourdough or whole grain, and experiment with various herbs and spices to suit your taste.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dressing and croutons in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it easy to assemble your salad when you're ready to eat.
- Add Extra Veggies: For added nutrition and color, consider tossing in some cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, or avocado to your salad before serving.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so assemble it right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and the croutons crunchy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
