Caesar Salad Recipe

Cashews: Raw nuts that need to be soaked to create a creamy base for the dressing.

Water: Used to blend with the cashews for the dressing.

Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, tangy flavor to the dressing.

Dijon mustard: Provides a sharp, tangy taste to the dressing.

Nutritional yeast: Adds a cheesy flavor to the dressing.

Garlic: Minced to add a pungent, savory note.

Capers: Adds a salty, tangy burst of flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dressing.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the dressing.

Romaine lettuce: The base of the salad, providing a crisp texture.

Vegan croutons: Adds a crunchy element to the salad.

Vegan parmesan cheese: Provides a cheesy flavor without dairy.

When blending the cashew dressing, make sure to blend on high speed for at least 2-3 minutes to achieve a creamy and smooth consistency. If the dressing is too thick, you can add a bit more water a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired texture. This ensures that the dressing coats the romaine lettuce evenly and enhances the overall flavor of the Caesar salad.

• raw cashews - Substitute with silken tofu: Silken tofu provides a creamy texture similar to cashews and is also a good source of protein.

• water - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk adds a slight nutty flavor and maintains the consistency needed for the dressing.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar gives a tangy flavor similar to lemon juice and is a common ingredient in dressings.

• dijon mustard - Substitute with stone-ground mustard: Stone-ground mustard has a similar flavor profile and adds a bit of texture to the dressing.

• nutritional yeast - Substitute with miso paste: Miso paste provides a savory umami flavor that can mimic the cheesy taste of nutritional yeast.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic for a more subtle garlic flavor.

• drained capers - Substitute with green olives: Green olives offer a briny, salty flavor similar to capers.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty flavor along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall taste of the dressing.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor but with a slightly different aroma.

• romaine lettuce - Substitute with kale: Kale is a hearty green that holds up well to dressing and adds a nutritional boost.

• vegan croutons - Substitute with toasted chickpeas: Toasted chickpeas provide a crunchy texture and are a protein-rich alternative to croutons.

• grated vegan parmesan cheese - Substitute with ground almonds: Ground almonds can mimic the texture of grated cheese and add a nutty flavor.

• To keep your Caesar salad fresh, store the dressing and salad components separately. Place the romaine lettuce in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Store the vegan croutons in a separate airtight container to maintain their crunch.

• For the dressing, transfer it to a small jar or airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Before using, give it a good shake or stir to recombine the ingredients.

• If you have leftover Caesar salad that's already been dressed, it's best to consume it within a day. The lettuce may become soggy if stored longer.

• To freeze the dressing, pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method allows you to thaw only the amount you need. The frozen dressing can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

• Avoid freezing the romaine lettuce and croutons as they do not freeze well and will lose their texture.

• Separate the romaine lettuce from the rest of the salad. The greens can become wilted and unappetizing when reheated, so it's best to keep them fresh.

• For the dressing and other components like vegan croutons and vegan parmesan cheese, place them in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in short intervals of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between, until they reach the desired temperature. This prevents overheating and maintains the texture.

• Alternatively, you can reheat the dressing on the stovetop over low heat. Stir continuously to ensure even heating and to avoid burning.

• If you prefer to keep the croutons crispy, toast them separately in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until they regain their crunch.

• Once everything is reheated, toss the romaine lettuce with the warmed dressing, croutons, and vegan parmesan cheese. Serve immediately to enjoy a refreshed and delicious Caesar salad.

• Blender: Used to combine and blend all dressing ingredients until smooth.

• Large bowl: Used to combine the chopped romaine lettuce, croutons, and vegan parmesan cheese.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the raw cashews, water, and other dressing ingredients accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the lemon juice, dijon mustard, nutritional yeast, minced garlic, capers, salt, and black pepper.

• Knife: Used to chop the romaine lettuce.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to chop the romaine lettuce.

• Colander: Used to drain and rinse the soaked cashews.

• Spatula: Used to scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure all dressing ingredients are well blended.

• Salad tongs: Used to toss the salad and coat it evenly with the dressing.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Soak the cashews overnight to save time on the day of preparation.

Use pre-made croutons: Purchase vegan croutons instead of making them from scratch.

Pre-wash lettuce: Wash and chop the romaine lettuce in advance and store it in the fridge.

Batch blend dressing: Make a larger batch of the dressing and store it in the fridge for future use.

Simplify garlic prep: Use pre-minced garlic to save time on chopping.