This Crispy Chickpea Flatbread with Creamy Caesar Salad Topping is a healthy, gluten-free dish that combines a crispy, savory chickpea-based flatbread with a fresh, creamy Caesar salad. The balance between the warm, crispy base and the cool, creamy greens makes for a wholesome and satisfying meal, perfect for anyone craving a delicious and nutritious dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together two beloved components: crispy flatbread and a fresh Caesar salad. The chickpea flour used for the flatbread adds a unique flavor and texture, while also making it naturally gluten-free. The Caesar salad topping adds richness and a burst of freshness, creating a harmonious contrast with the crispy flatbread. It’s an easy-to-make, versatile dish that is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer for sharing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup chickpea flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/4 cup Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the chickpea flour, water, olive oil, salt, and baking powder. Stir until smooth to create a thick batter.
3. Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into a circular shape, about 1/2 inch thick.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the flatbread is golden and crispy on the edges. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
5. While the flatbread is cooling, prepare the Caesar salad topping. In a bowl, toss the chopped Romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
6. Spread the Caesar salad mixture evenly over the cooled flatbread.
7. Drizzle with more Caesar dressing if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 servings
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 18 minutes
• Total time: 28 minutes

Variations

• Dressing Options: You can experiment with different dressings like a vegan Caesar dressing or a lemon tahini dressing for a plant-based option.
• Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas on top of the salad for extra protein.
• Extra Veggies: Add additional vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or red onions to the Caesar salad for more texture and flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Garnish the flatbread with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to enhance the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the flatbread and Caesar salad separately in airtight containers. The flatbread can be kept for up to 2 days, while the salad should be eaten fresh to maintain its texture.
• Reheating: Reheat the flatbread in the oven or toaster oven to restore its crispiness. Avoid reheating the salad as it may lose its texture and freshness.

FAQs

Can I make the flatbread ahead of time?

Yes, the flatbread can be baked ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days and top it with the Caesar salad right before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free due to the use of chickpea flour for the flatbread.

Can I use a different type of flour for the flatbread?

If you don’t have chickpea flour, you can try using other gluten-free flours such as rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, though the flavor and texture may vary.

Can I make the dressing homemade?

Yes, you can make your own Caesar dressing using ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, nutritional yeast (for a vegan version), and a bit of salt and pepper.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

If you’re not following a vegan or dairy-free diet, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese on top of the Caesar salad for added richness.

How can I make this dish vegan?

To make this dish vegan, use a plant-based Caesar dressing and top the flatbread with vegan cheese or roasted chickpeas for extra protein.

What other toppings can I use for the flatbread?

You can add other toppings like sliced avocado, roasted vegetables, or a poached egg for extra flavor and texture.

Can I use pre-made hummus instead of Caesar dressing?

While hummus is a great topping, it will give the dish a different flavor profile than Caesar dressing. If you’re looking for something creamy and tangy, it’s best to stick with Caesar dressing.

How can I make the flatbread crispier?

For an extra-crispy flatbread, you can increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and bake for a few extra minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the flatbread and salad separately for meal prep. Store the components separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Conclusion

Crispy Chickpea Flatbread with Creamy Caesar Salad Topping is a healthy, gluten-free dish that offers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. The crispy chickpea-based flatbread pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy Caesar salad, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. This dish is easily customizable, making it perfect for different dietary preferences, and is a great option for anyone looking for a nutritious and delicious meal.

Print