With crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a tangy, creamy dressing, Caesar Salad is a timeless favorite that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s the perfect blend of textures and flavors, from the salty Parmesan to the garlic-infused dressing. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this recipe brings restaurant-quality Caesar Salad right to your table. Ready to master this classic? Let’s get started!
Ingredients List: Everything You Need for Perfect Caesar Salad
For a Caesar salad that’s crisp, creamy, and full of flavor, here’s the essential list of ingredients.
For the Salad Base: Crisp, Fresh, and Flavorful
- 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped – Crisp and refreshing.
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – For that signature savory flavor.
- 1 cup croutons – Adds crunch; homemade or store-bought works well.
For the Caesar Dressing: Creamy, Tangy, and Savory
- ½ cup mayonnaise – The base for a creamy dressing.
- 1 clove garlic, minced – Adds depth and a touch of heat.
- 2-3 anchovy fillets, mashed (or 1 tsp anchovy paste) – For the classic Caesar flavor.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Adds a slight tang and depth.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice – For brightness and balance.
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds savory richness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
Optional Add-Ins
- Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon – To make it a heartier main dish.
- Soft-boiled egg – For extra richness.
Equipment Needed: Tools for a Perfect Caesar Salad
Making Caesar salad is easy with just a few basic tools.
- Large salad bowl – For tossing the salad.
- Small mixing bowl – For making the dressing.
- Whisk – To mix the dressing until creamy.
- Tongs – For tossing the salad evenly.
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Caesar Salad
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a Caesar salad that’s fresh, tangy, and perfectly balanced.
- Prepare the Lettuce: Wash and dry the romaine lettuce thoroughly. Chop it into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl.
- Make the Caesar Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, mashed anchovy fillets, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add Parmesan to the Dressing: Stir in half of the grated Parmesan into the dressing for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the chopped romaine lettuce in the large bowl. Use tongs to toss until the lettuce is evenly coated.
- Add Croutons and Parmesan: Sprinkle the croutons and the remaining grated Parmesan cheese over the salad. Toss gently to distribute.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the salad to serving plates, garnish with additional Parmesan and black pepper if desired, and enjoy your fresh, homemade Caesar salad!
Cooking Time and Serving Size: Quick, Fresh, and Perfect for Sharing
Here’s the time breakdown and serving size for this delicious Caesar salad:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Serving Size: Serves 4 as a side or 2 as a main
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~220 | Protein: 6g | Carbs: 10g | Fat: 18g
Tips and Variations: Make This Caesar Salad Your Own
Caesar salad is easy to customize! Here are some tips and variations to make it exactly how you like.
- Make It Lighter: Substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
- Add Extra Crunch: Use kale or add shaved Brussels sprouts for a twist on texture.
- Make It Vegan: Use vegan mayonnaise and omit the anchovies; add capers for a briny flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a subtle kick.
Presentation Tips: Serve Caesar Salad Like a Pro
For a classic presentation, serve the Caesar salad in shallow bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan shavings and freshly cracked black pepper. Add a wedge of lemon on the side for an elegant touch. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Caesar Salad FAQs: Your Questions Answered
New to making Caesar salad? Here are answers to common questions to help you get perfect results every time.
- Can I make the dressing ahead of time? Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Do I have to use anchovies? Anchovies add a traditional depth, but you can omit them if you prefer or substitute with capers.
- How do I keep the lettuce crisp? Dry the lettuce thoroughly and toss it with the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
Enjoy the Fresh, Tangy Flavor of Homemade Caesar Salad
This Caesar Salad recipe brings together all the best elements of this classic dish—crisp lettuce, creamy dressing, and savory Parmesan. Perfect for a quick meal, a side dish, or even a dinner party starter, Caesar salad is always a hit. So grab your ingredients, whip up this tangy dressing, and enjoy every fresh, delicious bite of this homemade Caesar salad. Happy cooking!
