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This vibrant Vegan Caesar Salad features crunchy romaine, crispy oven—or air-fried tofu, and a rich, tangy white bean dressing that’s nut-free and irresistibly creamy. It’s perfect for a nourishing meal any day of the week!
If you’re craving something fresh, savory, and satisfying, this Vegan Caesar Salad has your name written all over it!
To start, it’s a wholesome take on a classic—featuring crunchy romaine, crispy golden tofu bites, and a creamy Caesar-style dressing made with white beans instead of the nuts typically found in vegan recipes.
Most importantly, the dressing is the real magic here—tangy, rich, and nut-free, with capers adding that irresistible briny depth.
As a result, it’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making on repeat. Whether you’re new to plant-based eating or already a seasoned salad lover, this version offers a healthier, flavor-packed twist you’re bound to love.
So, with that said, let’s dig in!
WHAT ALLERGENS/INGREDIENTS IS THIS RECIPE FREE FROM?
This Recipe is vegan and:
- Dairy-Free
- Egg-Free
- Nut-Free
- Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free tamari and croutons that are optional)
- Refined Sugar-Free
- Oil-Free
- Free of Soy (if you omit the crispy tofu)
WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS AND WHY IS IT GOOD FOR YOU
This salad is a powerhouse of plant-based nutrition:
- Tofu delivers complete plant protein and a satisfying texture.
- White beans create a rich, creamy dressing without nuts or oil.
- Romaine lettuce is hydrating and crisp, perfect for a classic Caesar base.
- Capers & lemon juice bring brightness and zest to every bite.
It’s hearty enough for lunch or dinner and flexible for add-ins or meal prep. Plus, it’s allergen-friendly and kid-approved!
HOW TO PREPARE THIS VEGAN CAESAR SALAD
📌(Please read the printable recipe card below for detailed ingredients, measurements, steps, and notes)
Simply bake or air fry seasoned tofu, blend the creamy white bean dressing, and toss everything with crisp romaine. It’s beginner-friendly and made with ingredients you probably already have!
Let’s explore kitchen tools, the required ingredients, and the steps with helpful pictures if needed.
USEFUL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
Find all my plant-based kitchen’s essential tools and ingredient staples in my Amazon Storefront.
To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls – For seasoning the tofu and tossing the salad.
- Baking Sheet or Air Fryer – Depending on your cooking method of choice.
- Food processor or blender – To whip up the creamy white bean dressing.
- Cutting Board and Knife – For chopping tofu and lettuce.
- Salad Bowl & Tongs – To serve and toss everything together beautifully.
Now, let’s review the list of ingredients and potential substitutions in some cases.
INGREDIENTS NOTES
Here is a list of everything you will need to prepare this recipe:
- Tofu – Provides hearty texture and plant protein. Press it for best results.
- Tamari or Soy Sauce – Adds savory depth. Use gluten-free tamari if needed.
- Nutritional Yeast – Gives a cheesy, umami flavor.
- Garlic Powder & Smoked Paprika – Enhance the tofu’s flavor with smoky and savory notes.
- White Beans – The base of our creamy, nut-free dressing. Cannellini or Great Northern beans work great.
- Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and classic Caesar tang.
- Dijon Mustard – Gives the dressing a little zing.
- Capers (optional) – Adds salty, briny flavor, just like traditional Caesar.
- Romaine Lettuce – The classic crisp base for Caesar salads.
- Optional Toppings – Gluten-free or whole grain croutons, extra nutritional yeast, lemon wedges.
DIRECTIONS
To prepare this recipe, follow these steps:
Prepare the Tofu:
Press tofu to remove moisture and cut into cubes. Toss with tamari, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air Fryer: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway.
Make the Dressing:
Blend white beans, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, nutritional yeast, garlic, capers (optional), and water until smooth. Adjust salt, pepper, and water to taste.
Assemble the Salad:
Add chopped romaine to a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat. Top with crispy tofu and optional toppings. Serve with lemon wedges and enjoy!
RECIPE TIPS & VARIATIONS
- Meal prep tip: Make the dressing and tofu ahead of time and store them separately. Toss just before serving.
- Make it a bowl: Add cooked grains like quinoa or farro for extra heartiness.
- Boost the greens: Mix in kale or spinach with romaine for extra nutrients.
- Add extra crunch: Try sunflower seeds or roasted chickpeas instead of croutons.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge in separate containers for up to 3 days.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! The dressing is kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Tofu can also be baked or air-fried in advance and stored in an airtight container.
How do I store leftovers?
If possible, keep the components separate. Store the dressing in a sealed jar and the tofu in the fridge for 2–3 days.
Can I freeze this recipe?
The dressing and tofu don’t freeze well due to texture changes, but they’re easy to make fresh and quick!
•What can I serve with this recipe?
Pair with a bowl of soup, a slice of whole grain bread, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
MORE DELICIOUS SALAD RECIPES TO TRY!
PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD
EASY & FLAVORFUL VEGAN CAESAR SALAD WITH CRISPY TOFU (NUT-FREE!)
Equipment
- mixing bowls
- Baking Sheet or Air Fryer
- Blender or Food Processor
- Knife & cutting board
- Salad Bowl & Tongs
Ingredients
For the crispy tofu:
- 14 oz tofu (400 g block firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed)
- 2-3 Tbsp soy sauce (tamari for GF or low-sodium)
- 1 Tbsp nutritional yeast
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For the white bean Caesar dressing:
- 1 can white beans (15 oz / 425 g can white beans, drained and rinsed)
- 2-3 Tbsp lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon)
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 Tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or 1 garlic clove)
- 1 Tbsp capers
- 3-4 Tbsp water (more if needed for thinning)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the salad:
- 2 large heads of romaine lettuce (chopped)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Optional toppings (Whole grain croutons, extra nutritional yeast, lemon wedges)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven or the Air fryer for the tofu. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for the Oven method. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. For the air fryer method, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the tofu: Press it for at least 10 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes. Toss the tofu cubes with tamari, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Cook the tofu. Oven method: Spread tofu on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and slightly crispy. Air fryer: Place tofu cubes in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy.
- Make the dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine white beans, lemon juice, mustard, nutritional yeast, garlic, capers (if using), water, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning or add more water for a thinner consistency.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, add chopped romaine. Add the desired amount of dressing and toss until coated. Top with crispy tofu, optional croutons, and a sprinkle of black pepper or extra nutritional yeast. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Make ahead: Dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Tofu tips: For best texture, freeze and thaw tofu beforehand to make it chewier.
- Add-ons: Add avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, or roasted chickpeas for variety.
- Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free croutons if needed.
- No blender? Mash beans with a fork and whisk in remaining ingredients for a rustic-style dressing.
- Capers: They add a salty, briny flavor reminiscent of anchovies in traditional Caesar dressing—optional but highly recommended!
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