Print

Crispy Chickpea Caesar Salad Recipe with Crunchy Parmesan Topping

Crispy Chickpea Caesar Salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A refreshing take on the classic Caesar salad featuring golden, crispy roasted chickpeas and a crunchy Parmesan topping, paired with a tangy, garlicky dressing. This easy and satisfying salad is perfect for a light meal or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1/4 cup croutons
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Toss chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  4. Spread chickpeas in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes until golden and crunchy.
  5. While chickpeas roast, mix grated Parmesan, melted butter, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Set aside.
  6. Whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. In a large bowl, toss chopped romaine lettuce and croutons. Add warm roasted chickpeas and drizzle with Caesar dressing. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  8. Sprinkle the Parmesan topping generously over the salad just before serving.
  9. Serve immediately to enjoy the crunch.

Notes

Pat chickpeas very dry before roasting for maximum crispiness. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture. Spread chickpeas in a single layer to avoid overcrowding. Stir chickpeas during roasting to prevent burning. Add Parmesan topping just before serving to keep it crunchy. For gluten-free, substitute croutons with almond flour or nuts. Dressing can be made lighter with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crispy Chickpea Caesar Salad, Caesar Salad, Roasted Chickpeas, Parmesan Topping, Easy Salad Recipe, Vegetarian Salad, Healthy Salad

Find it online: https://spoonette.com/crispy-chickpea-caesar-salad-recipe-with-crunchy-parmesan-topping-easy-and-perfect/