Classic Caesar Salad

Introduction

The Classic Caesar Salad is one of the most iconic salads in the world. With its crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy golden croutons, and rich, creamy Caesar dressing made from Parmesan, garlic, lemon, and anchovies, it delivers a perfect balance of flavors—salty, tangy, garlicky, and umami-packed.

It was first created in Tijuana, Mexico, in the 1920s by Italian-American restaurateur Caesar Cardini. Since then, it has become a staple on restaurant menus and in home kitchens worldwide.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love the Classic Caesar Salad because it represents the perfect balance of flavors and textures in one bowl. The crispness of chilled romaine lettuce, the crunch of golden homemade croutons, the sharp saltiness of Parmesan, and the creamy, garlicky dressing create a harmony that never fails to satisfy.

It’s a recipe that feels luxurious yet simple—it can be enjoyed as a quick lunch, a dinner side, or even dressed up with grilled chicken or shrimp for a full meal. I also love that it’s a dish people instantly recognize and enjoy. When I serve it, there are never leftovers—it’s that good.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

The Classic Caesar Salad is a must-try because it’s not just another salad—it’s a timeless favorite that has stood the test of decades. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and sophistication. You don’t need exotic ingredients, yet the final result tastes like something you’d order at a fine restaurant.

• Versatile Dish: It works as a light appetizer, a refreshing side, or a hearty main course when topped with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The creamy, tangy dressing paired with crunchy romaine and Parmesan appeals to almost everyone, even those who don’t usually enjoy salads.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: With just a few steps, you can create a salad that tastes gourmet but is easy enough for everyday meals.
• Balanced & Refreshing: It’s rich and savory yet refreshing, making it the perfect complement to heavier dishes like pasta, steak, or roasted meats.

Recipe Details

• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Course: Salad / Side Dish / Appetizer
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes (for croutons)
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~320 per serving

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
• 1 cup homemade or store-bought croutons
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Dressing:

• 2 anchovy fillets (or 1 tsp anchovy paste)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 large egg yolk (or 2 tbsp mayonnaise for a safer option)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup olive oil (light or extra virgin)
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Prepare croutons by toasting bread cubes in olive oil and garlic.
2. Blend or whisk all dressing ingredients until creamy.
3. Toss romaine lettuce with dressing.
4. Add croutons and Parmesan.
5. Serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Croutons

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Toss bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and a touch of garlic powder.
• Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, until golden and crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

• In a bowl or blender, mash anchovies and garlic into a paste.
• Add mustard, egg yolk (or mayo), and lemon juice.
• Slowly whisk in olive oil until emulsified and creamy.
• Stir in Parmesan and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

• In a large salad bowl, toss chopped romaine with dressing until well-coated.
• Add croutons and Parmesan cheese.
• Toss lightly again.

Step 4: Serve

• Serve chilled, garnished with extra Parmesan shavings if desired.

How to Serve

• Best served fresh as a starter or side dish.
• For a main dish: top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.
• Pair with pasta, pizza, or steak for a complete meal.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Chill romaine before serving for extra crispness.
• Use a wooden bowl for tossing (traditional Caesar presentation).
• For creamier dressing, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
• Adjust garlic and anchovies to your taste.

Variations

1. Chicken Caesar Salad – Add grilled chicken breast slices.
2. Shrimp Caesar Salad – Toss in sautéed or grilled shrimp.
3. Kale Caesar Salad – Substitute kale for romaine.
4. Lighter Version – Use Greek yogurt instead of egg yolk or mayonnaise.

Freezing & Storage

• Dressing: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Do not freeze (egg-based dressings separate).
• Croutons: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Salad: Best eaten fresh; do not store once tossed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl or blender for dressing
• Baking sheet for croutons
• Whisk
• Salad bowl and tongs

Conclusion

The Classic Caesar Salad is more than just a salad—it’s a timeless favorite that combines simplicity with elegance. Crisp lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons come together to create a dish that can stand alone or complement nearly any meal. With its versatility and unforgettable flavor, it’s a recipe everyone should master and enjoy again and again.