refreshing twist on the classic Caesar salad, this vegan version delivers all the creamy, tangy flavors you love—without any dairy or animal products. Crisp romaine lettuce is tossed in a rich, plant-based dressing made from cashews, capers, and lemon, then finished with crunchy croutons and vegan Parmesan for the perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Vegan Caesar Salad brings together familiar flavors in a wholly plant-based way. The cashew-based dressing is silky and indulgent, with the briny tang of capers and lemon that evoke the traditional Caesar taste. It comes together in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or as an impressive starter for dinner parties. Whether you follow a vegan diet or simply seek a lighter, cruelty-free alternative, this salad will become a favorite.

ingredients

1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
1 cup vegan croutons
¼ cup vegan Parmesan cheese, finely grated

For the dressing:

¾ cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for 15 minutes and drained
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon capers
1 tablespoon caper brine (liquid from the caper jar)
1 small garlic clove, minced
½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons water (or more, to adjust consistency)
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional, for extra umami)

Additional garnish:

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

directions

Prepare the dressing: In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked cashews, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, capers, caper brine, garlic, salt, pepper, nutritional yeast (if using), and water. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, adding more water a teaspoon at a time if needed to reach a pourable consistency.
Chill briefly: Transfer the dressing to a bowl and refrigerate for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld while you prepare the salad.
Assemble the salad: Place the chopped romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl. Pour the chilled dressing over the lettuce and toss gently until every leaf is coated.
Add toppings: Sprinkle the vegan croutons and grated vegan Parmesan over the dressed lettuce. Toss lightly once more to distribute evenly.
Garnish and serve: Scatter the chopped parsley on top and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Kale Caesar: Substitute half or all of the romaine with finely chopped kale for a heartier green. Massage the kale with a little olive oil and salt before dressing to soften it.
Avocado Upgrade: Dice a ripe avocado and toss it in for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
Protein Boost: Top the salad with baked chickpeas, tofu “croutons,” or tempeh bacon for added protein.
Nut-Free Option: Replace cashews with silken tofu and use tahini in place of caper brine for a nut-free dressing.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few drops of hot sauce to the dressing for heat.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover salad components separately for best results. Keep the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The salad (without dressing) will stay crisp in the fridge for up to 2 days; add dressing and toppings just before serving. This salad is best served cold or at room temperature—no reheating is necessary.

FAQs

What makes this Caesar salad vegan?

This recipe replaces traditional dairy-based ingredients with plant-based alternatives: raw cashews stand in for cheese and mayonnaise, while nutritional yeast adds a savory umami note. No anchovies or animal products are used.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare the dressing up to 5 days in advance. Store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator and give it a quick stir before using.

How can I make the dressing creamier?

To achieve an extra-velvety texture, ensure the cashews are well soaked and blend on high speed. You can also add a tablespoon of vegan mayonnaise or silken tofu to increase creaminess.

What lettuce works best in a Caesar salad?

Classic Romaine lettuce offers the ideal crunch and sturdy leaves to hold the dressing. You may also mix in baby kale or butter lettuce for a different texture.

How do I store leftover salad?

Keep the dressed salad in a sealed container for up to 6 hours. For longer storage, refrigerate the dressing and lettuce separately as described above.

Is it possible to make this salad nut-free?

Yes. Replace the soaked cashews with silken tofu and use tahini instead of caper brine. Adjust lemon juice and water to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely. Grilled tofu, roasted chickpeas, or tempeh bacon make great protein additions and complement the Caesar flavors.

What can I use instead of nutritional yeast?

If you prefer, omit the nutritional yeast entirely or replace it with an extra tablespoon of vegan Parmesan for additional cheesiness.

How do I make homemade croutons?

Cut day-old bread into cubes, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then bake at 375 °F (190 °C) for 10–12 minutes, tossing halfway, until golden and crisp.

Can I add extra herbs or spices?

Yes. Fresh herbs like dill, chives, or basil can be sprinkled on top. For a smoky note, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the dressing.

Conclusion

This Vegan Caesar Salad is a delightful, plant-based interpretation of a beloved classic. With its rich, creamy dressing and crisp, fresh greens, it satisfies both purists and those seeking a lighter, cruelty-free option. Whether served as a side or a main course with added protein, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy this vibrant salad any time you crave bold flavors and effortless preparation