Soups & Stews > Soup & Stew Serving Suggestions > Side Salads > Caesar Salad (Small Portion)
Mini Caesar Salad: A Classic Side
A simplified Caesar salad, perfect as a refreshing accompaniment to your favorite soups and stews. This small portion is designed to cleanse the palate and offer a contrasting cool crunch to warm, comforting meals.
Ingredients
- 4 cups, chopped Romaine Lettuce Hearts
- 2 tablespoons, grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1/2 cup, store-bought or homemade Croutons
- 1/4 cup, store-bought or homemade Caesar Dressing
- 1 teaspoon Lemon Juice
- to taste Black Pepper
Prepare the Lettuce
Thoroughly wash the romaine lettuce hearts under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.
Add the Dressing and Parmesan
Pour the Caesar dressing over the chopped lettuce. Add the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to ensure the lettuce is evenly coated. Be careful not to overdress the salad.
Add Croutons and Lemon
Sprinkle the croutons over the dressed lettuce. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad for added brightness. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve Immediately
Serve the mini Caesar salads immediately alongside your soup or stew. This prevents the lettuce from becoming soggy.
Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product
Calories: 150 kcal
Protein: 5g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Other Considerations for Nutrition
Consider the sodium content of the Caesar dressing, especially if using store-bought. Opt for a low-sodium version or make your own to control the salt level. Adding grilled chicken or shrimp will significantly increase the protein content.
FAQ
-
Can I make the Caesar dressing from scratch?
Yes, making your own Caesar dressing allows you to control the ingredients and flavor. There are many recipes available online using ingredients like anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and egg yolk. -
Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
It's best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting. You can wash and chop the lettuce in advance, but wait to add the dressing, cheese, and croutons until you are ready to serve. -
What if I don't have romaine lettuce?
While romaine is the traditional choice for Caesar salad, you can substitute with other crisp lettuce varieties like butter lettuce or little gem lettuce.