Classic Caesar Salad

Classic Caesar Salad

---

Classic Caesar Salad is a beloved dish enjoyed by many for its crunchy texture and rich flavor. This salad features crisp romaine lettuce paired with croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a creamy dressing that ties everything together. Whether as a side dish or a light meal, it brings a refreshing taste that makes it a favorite at any table.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Classic Caesar Salad at home is easy and rewarding. You can control the ingredients and customize the flavor to suit your taste. Plus, it is a quick recipe perfect for busy nights or a simple gathering. This salad is also a wonderful way to enjoy fresh vegetables while indulging in creamy dressing and crunchy toppings.

How to Make Classic Caesar Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 large head romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
• 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp anchovy paste (optional)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, anchovy paste (if you’re feeling adventurous), and a sprinkle of black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is beautifully smooth.
2. Take a large salad bowl and add your chopped romaine lettuce. You want to make sure it’s nice and crisp!
3. Toss the croutons and extra grated Parmesan into the lettuce; they add a lovely crunch and richness.
4. Drizzle your freshly made dressing over the salad and toss gently. You want every piece of lettuce to be coated but still retain their crunch.
5. Give it a taste. If you’re feeling fancy, add more Parmesan, toss in a few more croutons, or adjust the pepper to your liking.
6. Serve immediately for the best texture! This salad shines as a delightful side dish or a light and refreshing main course.

How to Serve Classic Caesar Salad

Classic Caesar Salad can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or seafood, or enjoyed on its own as a light meal. For added flair, consider garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and a few freshly ground black pepper sprinkles on top.

How to Store Classic Caesar Salad

If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately. Place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. The dressing can also be kept in a separate container, and it should last for about a week. This way, the lettuce stays crisp, and the dressing doesn’t make everything soggy.

Tips to Make Classic Caesar Salad

• For a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
• Homemade croutons are easy to make! Just cube bread, toss with olive oil, and bake until crispy.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning. You can always add more lemon juice or Parmesan to enhance the flavor.

Variation

You can try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon to make it a heartier meal. Switching out romaine for mixed greens can also give it a different edge while keeping it fresh.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
A: Yes! The dressing can be made a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using.

Q: Is anchovy paste necessary for the dressing?
A: No, it is optional. The anchovy paste adds depth of flavor, but you can skip it if you prefer.

Q: What can I do with leftover salad?
A: It’s best to eat the salad fresh. However, if you have leftover ingredients, you can mix them into other dishes like wraps or grain bowls for a new meal.