If you’re a fan of classic Caesar salad, this refreshing version will be your new favorite! Crisp zucchini ribbons, hearty cannellini beans, and homemade Parmesan crisps come together with a bold, tangy dressing for a modern spin on a beloved dish. Light, fresh, and packed with flavor, this salad is a perfect choice for summer meals or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients
Vegan Caesar Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons (10 g) tahini paste
- 2 teaspoons (10 g) capers
- 1 1/2 teaspoons (7 g) Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) caper brine
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) warm water
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) salt
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) pepper
Salad:
- 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 medium zucchini, washed
- 1 white squash, washed
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- Lemon zest, for garnish
Instructions
- To prepare the dressing, combine all dressing ingredients in a mortar and pestle or blender.
- Mix or blend well until combined. The mixture does not need to be completely smooth; some caper pieces can remain for texture.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place 1 tablespoon (15 g) of Parmesan cheese on the prepared baking sheet, forming small piles. Lightly press each one down with the back of a spoon.
- Repeat with the remaining cheese, ensuring each pile is about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
- Bake for 3-5 minutes until golden brown. Let cool while preparing the salad.
- Using a vegetable peeler, slice the zucchini and squash into long, thin ribbons and place them in a large bowl.
- Rinse and dry the cannellini beans, then add them to the bowl with the zucchini ribbons.
- Drizzle the desired amount of dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Serve on salad plates, topping each portion with 1-2 Parmesan crisps.
- Garnish with lemon zest, if desired. Enjoy!
Kitchen Tips:
- For a fully vegan option, use dairy-free Parmesan instead of regular Parmesan.
- If using traditional Parmesan, freshly grated cheese works best. Pre-packaged shredded Parmesan won’t create the same crisp texture.
Final Thoughts
This zucchini and white bean Caesar salad is a light, nutritious twist on a classic, offering a satisfying combination of fresh veggies, protein-packed beans, and crispy cheese. Whether served as a main course or a side, this salad is guaranteed to impress!
