The Caesar salad has always been a staple of simple, satisfying meals. But what if you could enjoy all the garlicky, creamy goodness of a Caesar without the eggs, anchovies, or dairy? This Vegan Caesar Salad delivers exactly that—a bold, flavor-packed salad that’s 100% plant-based and incredibly satisfying.

Crisp romaine lettuce, a rich aquafaba-based dressing, crunchy homemade croutons, and a generous sprinkle of vegan Parmesan cheese come together in this vibrant twist on a beloved classic. Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or just craving a lighter, cleaner Caesar salad, this version checks all the boxes.

More than just a substitute, this vegan Caesar salad celebrates real, whole ingredients. It offers the same depth of flavor as the traditional version, while being more inclusive, nutritious, and guilt-free. You won’t miss the anchovies or dairy—promise.

It’s a salad you’ll return to time and time again. Whether you’re serving it up for weekday lunches, a potluck, or an elegant dinner starter, it’s the kind of dish that fits every mood, season, and occasion.

Recipe Overview

Difficulty Level: Easy
Cuisine: Plant-Based / American
Serving Size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Best Served As: Lunch or Light Dinner

Wholesome Caesar Stats

Your creamy-crunchy salad with a clean twist!

Calories: ~290 per serving
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg (yep, zero!)

The use of aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) not only makes the dressing ultra-creamy, but also adds plant-based protein. The olive oil brings in heart-healthy fats, while romaine and garlic boost vitamin A, C, and immunity.

Why This Vegan Caesar Salad Works

Egg-Free & Dairy-Free: Ideal for plant-based diets, lactose intolerance, or anyone seeking lighter alternatives.
Creamy, Tangy Dressing: Aquafaba blends with garlic, lemon juice, and caper brine to mimic the classic Caesar taste.
Crunch Factor: Homemade croutons add bite and texture without preservatives.
Fast & Fresh: Comes together in 30 minutes—perfect for weekday lunches.
Customizable: Add chickpeas, avocado, or tofu for extra protein.
Healthy Upgrade: Made with simple, whole-food ingredients.
No Anchovies Needed: Caper brine brings the perfect briny punch.
Allergy-Friendly: Naturally free from eggs, dairy, and can easily be made nut-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:

1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
1/4 cup vegan Parmesan (store-bought or homemade)
Optional: cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, roasted chickpeas

For the Dressing:

3 tbsp aquafaba (from canned chickpeas)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp caper brine (or use apple cider vinegar)
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Croutons:

2 cups bread cubes (day-old sourdough or any crusty bread)
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Croutons

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt.
Spread on a baking sheet and toast for 8–10 minutes, or until golden and crunchy.
Let them cool before adding to the salad to preserve their crunch.

2. Blend the Vegan Caesar Dressing

In a bowl or small blender, combine aquafaba, lemon juice, mustard, caper brine, and garlic.
Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking or blending until thick and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.

3. Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, toss chopped romaine with enough dressing to coat the leaves.
Add croutons and vegan Parmesan.
Toss again just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Garnish with extra black pepper or lemon zest if desired.

Pro tip: For an Instagram-worthy presentation, serve in a chilled wooden bowl and layer with avocado fans or microgreens.

Kitchen Tips & Variations

Make-Ahead: The dressing can be made up to 5 days in advance. Croutons can be stored in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Add Protein: For a more filling salad, top with roasted chickpeas, baked tofu strips, or tempeh.
Nut-Free Parmesan: Blend sunflower seeds with nutritional yeast and garlic powder for a savory, cheesy topping.
Use Different Greens: Swap romaine for kale, butter lettuce, or even a spinach blend for variation.
Oil-Free Version: Substitute olive oil with mashed avocado or tahini for a creamy, oil-free base.
Wrap It Up: Use large collard greens or whole grain wraps and turn this salad into portable vegan Caesar wraps.
Add a Kick: A pinch of cayenne or a few red pepper flakes can give your salad a little heat.

Real Ingredient Spotlight

What Is Aquafaba?

Aquafaba is the liquid you find in canned chickpeas. It’s slightly viscous, rich in plant-based starches and proteins, and works wonders as an egg white substitute. In vegan Caesar dressing, it helps emulsify the ingredients and gives that silky, creamy texture—without the need for eggs or mayonnaise.

Why Caper Brine Instead of Anchovies?

Traditional Caesar dressing includes anchovies, which deliver umami and saltiness. Caper brine replicates that punch with no animal products. It’s also lighter, tangier, and a staple in vegan pantry swaps.

What to Serve With Vegan Caesar Salad

This salad is great on its own, but it also plays well with other dishes:

Lentil Soup – Adds protein and warmth for a full lunch.
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes – A fiber-rich pairing that balances out the salad’s tanginess.
Roasted Veggie Bowls – Hearty and colorful additions for meal-prepped dinners.
Whole Grain Garlic Bread – A crunchy companion that’s perfect for dipping in extra dressing.
Grilled Vegan Sausages – For a summery outdoor meal.
Chickpea Patties – Serve on the side for a satisfying crunch and additional protein.
Grain Bowls – Mix this salad with cooked quinoa or farro to create a complete one-bowl meal.

Extra Tips for Retaining Texture

Dress the salad just before serving to keep romaine crisp.
If meal prepping, store croutons and dressing separately until ready to eat.
Add a splash of extra lemon juice to liven it up the next day.
For extra crunch, sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds just before serving.

Final Thoughts: Salad That Sticks with You

This isn’t just another bowl of greens. The vegan Caesar salad is a satisfying, flavorful, and flexible meal that proves plant-based eating can be indulgent, crave-worthy, and completely satisfying.

It’s more than a substitute—it’s an upgrade. By using aquafaba and caper brine, you’re not just skipping animal products; you’re embracing bold, bright, and modern flavors. The creamy dressing, crisp lettuce, and golden croutons create a texture and taste combo that earns this salad a place in your regular rotation.

Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just Caesar-curious, this recipe will win you over with its balance of comfort and freshness. It’s proof that with the right ingredients and a bit of know-how, even the most traditional recipes can get a delicious, healthful glow-up.