Description
Classic Caesar Salad features crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a savory Parmesan cheese dressing. The creamy Caesar dressing made with garlic, anchovies, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard creates a bold, tangy flavor that complements the fresh ingredients perfectly. It’s a delicious and timeless salad, often served as a side dish or topped with grilled chicken for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (see notes for homemade option)
For the Dressing (if homemade):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 4 anchovy fillets, mashed (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: If making homemade dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, mashed anchovies, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Prepare the salad: In a large salad bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with the croutons and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the lettuce mixture and toss to coat evenly. Adjust the amount of dressing based on your preference.
- Serve: Serve immediately with additional Parmesan and black pepper, if desired.
Notes
- Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to turn this side salad into a main course.
- Crouton options: You can make your own croutons by toasting cubes of bread in olive oil and seasoning with garlic powder and salt.
- Anchovy-free option: If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the anchovies in the dressing, though they add a classic Caesar flavor.
- Storage: Leftover dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the crisp texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g