Looking for a fresh twist on your traditional Caesar salad? This Grilled Romaine Caesar is a delightful way to elevate your greens. With a rich, creamy tahini Caesar dressing and crunchy crispy chickpeas, it’s not only nutritious but also packed with flavor. Perfect for summer barbecues or light dinners, this recipe will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Imagine the smoky flavor of charred romaine mixed with the nutty, creamy tahini dressing, complemented by the satisfying crunch of roasted chickpeas. This dish is about balance – the grilled greens provide a slight bitterness that pairs beautifully with the rich dressing, while the chickpeas add protein and texture.
Grilled Romaine Caesar
This recipe features tender grilled romaine hearts, drizzled with a luscious tahini Caesar dressing. The crispy chickpeas add a hearty crunch, making it a satisfying salad that stands on its own or complements grilled proteins. Each bite offers a delightful combination of smoky, creamy, and crunchy textures.
Ingredients
- 2 heads of romaine lettuce, halved lengthwise
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
- Water to thin out the dressing, as needed
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chickpeas: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the drained chickpeas with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
- Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and nutritional yeast (if using). Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt to taste.
- Grill the Romaine: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the halved romaine hearts cut-side down on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until just charred. Flip and grill for another minute.
- Assemble the Salad: Arrange the grilled romaine on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the tahini Caesar dressing and top with the crispy chickpeas. Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve: Enjoy the salad warm or at room temperature, and savor the wonderful combination of flavors and textures.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
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