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Eccentric Caesar Salad

This eccentric vegan Caesar salad offers a vibrant twist on a classic chilled starter. By swapping traditional eggs and anchovies for a creamy, blended cashew base, this dish achieves a remarkably rich texture that perfectly coats the crisp romaine leaves. A subtle hint of curry powder adds warmth and depth, providing a unique flavour profile that sets this version apart from the standard restaurant offering.

Ideal as a light lunch or a sophisticated dinner party side, this plant-based recipe is packed with healthy fats from the ripe avocado and hemp seeds. The addition of briny capers provides a sharp, salty contrast to the velvet-smooth dressing. It is a nutritious, dairy-free alternative that remains deeply satisfying and quick to assemble for any occasion.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Eccentric Caesar Salad

  • 120ml /70 g cup raw cashews

  • 45ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 45ml fresh lemon juice

  • 45ml nutritional yeast (see Note)

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 large garlic clove

  • 3/4 teaspoons salt

  • 1/4 teaspoons curry powder

  • Freshly ground black pepper

  • 2 large heads cos lettuce, chopped or torn into bite-size pieces

  • 300g /120 g Quick Garlic Croutons

  • 1 ripe avocado, medium dice

  • 70g /65 g hemp seeds

  • 45g /55 g capers

How to make Eccentric Caesar Salad

Combine the cashews, oil, lemon juice, yeast, mustard, garlic, salt, curry powder, and pepper in a food processor and add 60ml plus 45ml /75 ml warm water. Process until the mixture is very smooth, 2 to 3 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl once or twice.

Toss the cos with 120ml /120 ml of the dressing. Add more to taste if desired. Divide the lettuce among six plates, and top each with some of the croutons, avocado, hemp seeds, and capers. Serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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