Smoky, Garlicky Vegan Caesar Salad with Chickpea Croutons

Ingredients

• 3 Tbs tahini
• 2 1/2 tsp capers finely minced/smashed
• 1 Tbs Caper brine the liquid that the capers comes in!
• 2 1/2 tbsp lemon juice (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp maple syrup (or coconut nectar)
• 3 tbsp fresh minced garlic (about five cloves)
• 2 tbsp warm water (to thin, as needed)
• 400 g canned chickpeas (drained)
• 1 Tbs smoked paprika
• 1 Tbs garlic powder
• 1 Tbs olive oil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 head Cos Lettuce Washed, dried & torn to bite size pieces
• 200 g smoked tofu (sliced 1 cm thick)
• 3 1/2 tbsp chopped chives and parsley (optional garnish)