This vibrant twist on the classic Caesar salad combines the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts and kale with the creamy richness of a plant-based Caesar dressing. The real star, however, is the cheezy garlic croutons—crunchy bites of bread infused with garlic and a hint of nutritional yeast, giving them that irresistible cheesy flavor without any dairy. This salad is not only packed with nutrients but also bursts with flavor, making it a perfect dish for both a light lunch and a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced
- 2 cups kale, chopped and stems removed
- 1/4 cup roasted sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup vegan parmesan, grated (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon capers, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (vegan)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheezy Garlic Croutons:
- 3 cups cubed bread (sourdough or ciabatta work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Croutons:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed bread with olive oil, minced garlic, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of salt until evenly coated.
- Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy, tossing halfway through. Set aside to cool.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped capers, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced Brussels sprouts and chopped kale.
- Pour the dressing over the greens and toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the roasted sunflower seeds and vegan parmesan (if using) over the top.
- Serve:
- Just before serving, top the salad with the cheezy garlic croutons.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
This Brussels & Kale Caesar with Cheezy Garlic Croutons is a hearty, flavorful salad that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of textures and flavors will leave you satisfied and craving more.
