For the attendees who want to swap out fried foods that are chock full of thick oils and heavy sauces, this exciting twist on a classic Caesar salad perfectly fits the bill. In the heat of the California desert, Alfalfa served up a shimmery, pink glitter salad that dazzled the crowds. You will be reaching for this gluten-free and dairy-free salad all summer long!
Ingredients (for 2 servings):
Salad
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
1 can (15 oz.) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 head romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
Pink edible glitter
Dressing
1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked in water for at least 2 hours or overnight
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp nutritional yeast
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup water
Salt and pepper to taste
Almond Parmesan
1/4 cup almonds
2 tbsp nutritional yeast
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt to taste
Instructions:
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 6-8 min. per side. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the diced sweet potato and cook until caramelized and tender, about 10-12 min., stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat dry the chickpeas with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Toss the chickpeas with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 min. or until crispy and golden brown.
In a blender, combine the soaked cashews, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, water, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
In a food processor, combine the almonds, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, caramelized sweet potato, and crispy chickpea croutons.
Drizzle the cashew Caesar dressing over the salad and sprinkle with almond Parmesan. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Top with sliced avocado, dust with edible glitter, serve and enjoy!