Eggless Caesar Salad (with Tofu Croutons)

A satisfying, plant-based alternative to traditional Caesar salad.

This salad is a satisfying twist on the classic Caesar. With the rich, savoury flavours and creamy texture you expect, this version also provides plant protein along with fibre and important vitamins and minerals that help make it a filling meal.

This Eggless Caesar Salad brings together three components — the salad, the dressing, and crispy tofu croutons — to create a balanced meal that works well for lunch or dinner.

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

For the Tofu Croutons

  • Extra-Firm Tofu
  • Cornstarch
  • Nutritional Yeast
  • Olive Oil
  • Salt
  • Black Pepper
  • Garlic Powder

For the Salad

  • Leafy Greens (e.g., Romaine Lettuce, Spinach, and/or Shredded Cabbage)
  • Sunflower Seeds
  • Hemp Seeds
  • Cucumber

For the Dressing

You’ll also need:

  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Serving bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Towel or paper towels (for pressing tofu)
  • Salad spinner
  • Salad tongs

  1. Prepare the tofu croutons: In a mixing bowl, toss the cubed tofu with olive oil, cornstarch, nutritional yeast, and seasonings.
  2. Air fry the tofu: Transfer the tofu to an air fryer and cook for 20 minutes at ~390°F, tossing halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  3. Prepare the salad and dressing: While the tofu cooks, prepare the dressing and chop the salad ingredients.
  4. Assemble the salad: Combine the leafy greens, cucumber, sunflower seeds, and hemp seeds in a large bowl.
  5. Add the dressing: Toss the salad with dressing until evenly coated.
  6. Finish the dish: Once the tofu croutons reach your desired level of crispiness, remove them from the air fryer and let cool slightly.
  7. Serve: Top the salad with the tofu croutons and enjoy.

  • For the best texture, add the dressing just before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
  • Since this recipe has three components (salad, dressing, and croutons), you can prepare them in advance and assemble when ready to eat, making it a great meal prep option.
  • To make the salad fully vegan, use a vegan version of the Caesar dressing. See this Eggless Caesar Dressing recipe for details.

Eggless Caesar Salad (with Tofu Croutons)

  • Servings: 4 (as main meal)
  • Print

A satisfying, plant-based alternative to traditional Caesar salad.


Ingredients

    Croutons
  • 400 g extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salad

  • 8 cups leafy greens (romaine lettuce, spinach, shredded cabbage), chopped
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
  • 1/4 cup hemp seeds
  • 2 cups cucumber, chopped
  • Dressing

  • 1/2 cup Eggless Caesar Dressing (link above)

Directions

  1. In a mixing bowl, toss tofu with olive oil, cornstarch, nutritional yeast, and seasonings.
  2. Transfer tofu to the air fryer and cook for 20 minutes at ~390°F, tossing halfway through.
  3. While the tofu cooks, prepare the dressing and chop the salad ingredients.
  4. Combine the salad ingredients in a large bowl and toss with dressing until evenly coated.
  5. Once the croutons reach your desired crispiness, remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly.
  6. Top the salad with tofu croutons and serve.

Nutrition

Per Serving: Energy/Calories: 389 kcal | Carbohydrates: 15 g | Protein: 25 g | Fat: 27 g | Saturated Fat: 3.9 g | Sodium: 332 mg | Fibre: 5.4 g | Total Sugars: 3.8 g

Please note: the nutrition information provided above is an estimation based on a reference serving size. It is subject to error/variation and is for information purposes only. The website owner is not liable for this information. While this information may be helpful for you, please remember that food is more than just numbers.


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Disclaimer: All recipes on this site are intended for informational and educational purposes only. Results may vary depending on ingredients, equipment, and individual experience. Please use your best judgment and consider any allergies, dietary needs, or health conditions. The website owner is not responsible for any outcomes related to the preparation, cooking, or consumption of these recipes. Use this content at your own discretion and risk.

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About Me

Hi there! I’m Prab, a registered dietitian who blends traditional Punjabi flavours with approachable plant-based nutrition. Here, you’ll find simple vegan and vegetarian recipes inspired by Punjabi cuisine, along with practical, evidence-based nutrition tips and information.