What type of lettuce is best for Caesar salad?

The classic Caesar salad uses romaine lettuce. Its sturdy leaves hold up well to the dressing and croutons without getting soggy. However, you can experiment with other lettuces like butter lettuce or even chopped kale for a different texture.

Can I make my own croutons for Caesar salad?

Yes, and we recommend it! Making homemade croutons is a great way to customize the flavor and texture. Simply cube bread, toss with olive oil and garlic powder, and bake until golden brown.

Do I need to use anchovies in Caesar dressing?

Anchovies are a traditional ingredient in Caesar dressing, but they mainly add a savory umami flavor that's not overpowering. If you're not a fan of anchovies, you can omit them or use a substitute like Worcestershire sauce or miso paste.

What if I don't have Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for the Parmesan cheese.

Can I make Caesar salad dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Homemade Caesar dressing will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week in an airtight container.

This Perfect Caesar Salad is the Best Side Dish, Lunch, or Dinner Solution!

Description

This Caesar salad recipe is a flavor explosion with creamy dressing, crunchy croutons, and salty Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect as a side dish, or make it an easy lunch or dinner by adding protein!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Caesar dressing (makes 1 cup)

1 medium garlic clove, minced or grated
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons lemon juice (1/2 lemon)
¾ cup high quality mayonnaise (or 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, and 1 tablespoon olive oil*)
1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste or Worcestershire sauce (or omit)
1/4 teaspoon each kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper

For the Caesar salad

1 recipe Homemade Croutons (or purchased)
3 romaine hearts** (or 1 large head romaine), torn or chopped into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese shavings (or shredded Parmesan)
Optional protein adders: Parmesan crusted chicken, baked salmon, sauteed shrimp

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Instructions

Make the croutons: Make the Homemade Croutons, tearing the bread into pieces instead of slicing it into cubes. (This makes the best Caesar salad, but homemade croutons are optional).
Make the dressing: Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a bowl. Store leftovers refrigerated in a covered jar for up to 1 week.
Make the salad: In a large bowl, toss the romaine, Parmesan cheese, and croutons with the desired amount of dressing. (If serving with added protein, top with the protein and serve.) Leftovers store best without the dressing, since dressing makes the lettuce and croutons soggy over time. If you can, store the salad ingredients separately without dressing, then toss with the dressing immediately before serving.

Notes

*Make a lighter version of the dressing by swapping in Greek yogurt and olive oil for part of the mayo. We like it even better!

**Romaine hearts are easy to find packaged separately in the produce aisle.

Category: Salad
Method: Raw
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian