Appetizers & Starters > Salads & Cold Starters > Leafy Salads > Caesar Salad

Classic Caesar Salad

Enjoy this iconic salad featuring crisp romaine lettuce, a creamy, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons. This Caesar salad is a timeless favorite, perfect as a starter or light lunch.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 2 heads Romaine Lettuce
  • 1 cup Croutons
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
  • 2 cloves Garlic
  • 2 Egg Yolks
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
  • 2 Anchovy Fillets
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Prepare the Romaine Lettuce

Begin by washing and thoroughly drying the romaine lettuce. This is crucial for preventing a soggy salad. Once dry, chop or tear the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the dressing.

Make the Caesar Dressing

In a food processor or blender, combine the garlic, egg yolks, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, anchovy fillets, and Worcestershire sauce. Process until smooth. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the processor is running to emulsify the dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the lemon juice and mustard to achieve your desired flavor balance.

Assemble the Salad

Just before serving, pour the Caesar dressing over the chilled romaine lettuce. Toss gently to coat all the leaves evenly. Add the croutons and Parmesan cheese. Toss lightly again. Serve immediately to prevent the croutons from becoming soggy.

Tips for Best Croutons

For extra-crispy croutons, you can lightly toast them in a pan with a little olive oil and garlic powder before adding them to the salad.

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FAQ

  • Can I use pre-made croutons?

    Yes, you can use store-bought croutons, but homemade croutons often taste better. Consider toasting them slightly for extra crunch.
  • Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

    Yes, the dressing can be made a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before using. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
  • Can I add protein to this salad?

    Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great additions to a Caesar salad to make it a more substantial meal.
  • Is it safe to use raw eggs in the dressing?

    Using raw eggs carries a risk of salmonella. You can use pasteurized eggs or egg substitutes to mitigate this risk. Alternatively, look for a recipe that uses a cooked egg yolk base.