I’m so excited to finally share this go-to Vegan Caesar Salad recipe with you! This has been a staple in my kitchen for years—full of nourishing ingredients, amazing texture, and the perfect balance of flavor. Whether you’re dairy-free by choice or need, this salad doesn’t sacrifice one bit of comfort or creaminess. It’s a client and family favorite, and I have a feeling it’ll become one of yours too.
It’s hearty, creamy, crunchy, and satisfying… everything a salad should be.
đź’š Why I Love Kale & Romaine Caesar Salads
Let’s be honest—some salads are just… boring. Not this one. I have a few non-negotiables when it comes to salads: they must be filling, they need a crunch factor, and they better be full of flavor. This one checks every box.
I love combining kale with romaine for the perfect balance—kale gives a hearty, earthy bite and romaine adds that crisp freshness. The dairy-free creamy Caesar dressing softens the kale beautifully and gives you that restaurant-style richness without the heavy dairy.
Plus, we’re topping this off with homemade gluten-free croutons, pickled onions (yes—just trust me), creamy avocado slices, and your choice of grilled or marinated chicken. Want to keep it plant-based? Sub in crispy chickpeas or tofu!
🥬 Salad Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked how you like (or plant-based protein of choice)
- Organic spinach
- Organic Kale
- Organic Romaine lettuce
- Dairy-free parmesan (recipe below)
- Pickled onions (see recipe below)
- Avocado slices
- Homemade gluten-free croutons
🥣 Dairy-Free Caesar Dressing:
This takes just a few minutes to make and keeps in the fridge for several days!
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup coconut milk yogurt
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (add zest for more zing!)
- 1 tablespoon dairy-free parmesan
- 4 squirts (about 4 tsp) Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves (or garlic powder to taste)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp avocado oil mayo
- Sea salt & black pepper to taste
Whisk together until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust as needed—add a splash more lemon for brightness or extra garlic for that classic Caesar punch.
🧀 Vegan Parmesan Cheese (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
This cheesy sprinkle is so good, you’ll want to put it on everything. Plus, it’s ready in under 5 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup roasted cashews
- 4 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- Large pinch of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to a food processor.
- Pulse until it forms a fine, crumbly meal (like shredded Parmesan).
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 weeks.
🧅 Quick Pickled Onions (No Boil, No Sugar!)
These bright pink beauties instantly elevate any dish—seriously. A Caesar salad with pickled onions? Game changer.
Ingredients:
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp orange juice
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
- Thinly slice the onion with a mandolin, food processor, or knife.
- Place into a jar and add all remaining ingredients.
- Shake well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).
- Keeps up to 4 weeks in the fridge!
🍗 Why Protein + Fiber + Healthy Fats Matter
As a Functional Medicine Health Coach, I always teach my clients the importance of balanced meals. When you include lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich greens in a meal like this one, you’re:
- Keeping blood sugar stable
- Supporting metabolism
- Staying full longer
- Nourishing your body for energy and hormone balance
Whether you’re working on weight loss, gut healing, or hormone health, this is the kind of meal that helps your body thrive.
💬 Now I’d Love to Hear From You!
Have you ever tried a dairy-free Caesar salad before?
And tell me—have you ever added pickled onions to your Caesar salad? It might sound a little wild, but trust me… it’s a game changer!
👇 Share your favorite toppings in the comments or tag me when you make this—I love seeing your nourishing creations and walking alongside you on your health journey.
Yours In Health,
Penny
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