Print

Fresh Grilled Romaine Caesar Recipe with Crispy Chickpeas

fresh grilled romaine caesar - featured image
Print Recipe

A smoky twist on classic Caesar salad featuring grilled romaine and crispy, spiced chickpeas, topped with a creamy anchovy-garlic dressing. Easy to prepare and perfect for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing side or main.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large heads romaine lettuce, halved lengthwise
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for dressing, regular for chickpeas)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (or pinch of capers for vegetarian)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ cup (about 50 g) finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin (optional)
  • Croutons (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Drain and rinse chickpeas, then pat dry thoroughly.
  2. Toss chickpeas with 1 tablespoon olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.
  3. Roast chickpeas for 25-30 minutes, shaking pan halfway through, until crispy and golden. Cool on tray.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together anchovy paste, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons olive oil until smooth.
  5. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Add water by teaspoon if dressing is too thick.
  6. Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Brush cut sides of romaine halves lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
  7. Place romaine cut side down on grill. Grill 2-3 minutes until char marks appear and lettuce softens slightly but holds shape.
  8. Flip and grill 1-2 minutes on the other side. Remove and let cool briefly.
  9. Place grilled romaine on serving platter. Drizzle dressing generously over leaves, letting it pool in crevices.
  10. Scatter crispy chickpeas on top. Optionally, sprinkle more Parmesan or add croutons.
  11. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of textures.

Notes

Do not overdress the salad initially to avoid sogginess; add more dressing as needed. For a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of mayonnaise. Dry chickpeas thoroughly before roasting for best crispiness. Grill romaine with a light brush of oil to prevent sticking. Store chickpeas and dressing separately if prepping ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled romaine, Caesar salad, crispy chickpeas, smoky salad, easy salad recipe, healthy salad, vegetarian option, gluten-free

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/fresh-grilled-romaine-caesar-recipe-with-crispy-chickpeas-easy-and-delicious/