Description
This classic Caesar salad recipe features crisp romaine lettuce, creamy homemade dressing, and crunchy golden croutons. Perfect as a side or main dish, it’s customizable for various diets and effortlessly elevates any meal with its fresh flavor and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad:
- 1 large head romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1 tsp anchovy paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Croutons:
- Bread cubes (from about 3–4 slices)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, bacon, or avocado slices
- Plant-based Parmesan or vegan mayo for dietary needs
Instructions
- Make Croutons:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden and crunchy. - Prepare the Dressing:
In a bowl or blender, combine anchovy paste, garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil. Blend or whisk until smooth and creamy. Stir in Parmesan. Season to taste. - Assemble the Salad:
Wash and thoroughly dry romaine lettuce. Place in a large bowl and toss gently with dressing. Top with croutons and additional grated Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use plant-based cheese and a dairy-free dressing.
- Make it gluten-free with gluten-free croutons.
- Store components separately and assemble before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Prep dressing and croutons up to 3 days ahead.
- Add protein for a more filling main dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed / Baked
- Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 10mg