Broccoli Caesar Salad with Crispy Chickpeas and Toasted Breadcrumbs
This Broccoli Caesar Salad combines crisp roasted broccoli, crunchy oven-roasted chickpeas, toasted panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and creamy Caesar dressing. It is an easy vegetarian salad with plenty of texture and savory flavor, perfect for lunch or as a hearty side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 small heads broccoli, about 4 cups chopped florets
- 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 (15.5-ounce) can chickpeas, drained, rinsed, and patted dry
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons Caesar dressing of choice
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Pat the chickpeas very dry with paper towels to help them become crisp.
- Place the broccoli and chickpeas on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with 4 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat.
- Spread the broccoli and chickpeas into an even layer. Roast for 20–25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the broccoli is browned around the edges and the chickpeas are crisp.
- Meanwhile, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and toasted. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the roasted broccoli and chickpeas to a large bowl. Let them cool for a few minutes.
- Add the Caesar dressing and toss gently until the broccoli and chickpeas are lightly coated.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and toasted breadcrumbs. Toss again gently to combine.
- Serve immediately while the chickpeas and breadcrumbs are crisp.
Notes
- Dry the chickpeas thoroughly before roasting for the crispiest texture.
- Add the toasted breadcrumbs just before serving so they stay crunchy.
- For a stronger Caesar flavor, add a little extra dressing to taste.
- Use a vegetarian Caesar dressing if you want to keep the salad vegetarian, as some Caesar dressings contain anchovies.
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken or another cooked protein of your choice.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days, although the breadcrumbs and chickpeas will soften over time.