A classic Caesar salad is a beloved staple of any salad repertoire, known for its crisp romaine lettuce, creamy, garlicky dressing, crunchy croutons, and bold Parmesan cheese. Whether served as a side or a light main dish, this salad delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Originating from Tijuana, Mexico, in the 1920s, this timeless salad is still a favorite at dinner tables and restaurants worldwide. Making it from scratch elevates the flavors and adds a touch of elegance to any meal.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped or torn into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup homemade or store-bought croutons
For the Dressing:
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 anchovy fillets, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon anchovy paste)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
- 1 large egg yolk (or 2 tablespoons mayonnaise for a safer option)
- ½ cup olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Preparation
1. Make the Croutons (Optional):
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss cubed day-old bread with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
- Spread the bread on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together minced garlic, anchovies, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and egg yolk (or mayonnaise).
- Gradually whisk in the olive oil, a few drops at a time, until the dressing thickens and emulsifies.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Salad:
- Place the romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl.
- Add the croutons and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Variations
- Grilled Chicken Caesar: Add sliced grilled chicken breast for a hearty main course.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the anchovies and add capers or a dash of extra Worcestershire sauce for a similar umami kick.
- Kale Caesar: Substitute romaine with chopped kale for a more robust, nutrient-packed salad.
Cooking Notes
- Anchovy Substitute: If you’re not a fan of anchovies, you can replace them with 1 teaspoon of miso paste or leave them out entirely for a milder flavor.
- Egg Safety: To ensure safety, you can use a coddled egg or pasteurized egg yolk, or replace the egg with mayonnaise.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled steak, salmon, or roasted chicken for a complete meal.
- Pair with a bowl of soup for a light yet satisfying lunch.
- Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon for a zesty finish.
Tips
- Make Ahead: The dressing can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Crouton Storage: Store homemade croutons in an airtight container for up to a week to maintain their crispness.
- Lettuce Prep: Wash and dry the lettuce thoroughly to prevent the dressing from becoming watery.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (if making croutons)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sodium: 550mg
FAQs
Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought dressing is a convenient option, though homemade dressing provides a fresher, richer flavor.
Can I make this salad in advance?
A: You can prep the lettuce, croutons, and dressing separately. Toss everything together just before serving to keep the salad crisp.
What’s a good substitute for romaine lettuce?
A: Kale, iceberg, or butter lettuce can be used as alternatives, though romaine offers the ideal crisp texture.
Conclusion
The classic Caesar salad is a timeless recipe that blends bold flavors with simple ingredients, making it a standout addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual family meal, this salad’s creamy dressing, crunchy croutons, and savory Parmesan cheese will elevate your dining experience.