What is the Recipe About?
The Classic Caesar Salad is a beloved dish known for its crisp romaine lettuce, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons, all topped with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
This salad offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a go-to option for both casual meals and elegant dinners. Its simplicity and richness make it a timeless favorite.
How to Serve?
Serve the Classic Caesar Salad chilled, arranged in a large salad bowl or on individual plates.
Start with a bed of fresh romaine lettuce, add homemade croutons, and drizzle with creamy Caesar dressing. Finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few twists of black pepper.
For an added touch, garnish with lemon wedges or anchovy fillets. This salad can be served as a starter or as a main dish when topped with grilled chicken or shrimp.
How to Pair?
The Classic Caesar Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses and beverages. It complements grilled meats, seafood, and pasta dishes, making it a versatile side.
For beverages, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the salad’s tangy dressing. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing iced tea.
The rich, savory flavors of the Caesar Salad make it a perfect match for a range of meals.
Some Notes About the Recipe
- Lettuce: Use fresh, crisp romaine lettuce for the best texture and flavor. Chop or tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Croutons: Make homemade croutons by tossing cubed bread with olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning, then baking until golden and crispy.
- Dressing: The key to a great Caesar salad is the dressing. Use a high-quality store-bought Caesar dressing or make your own by blending anchovy paste, garlic, egg yolk, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil until smooth and creamy.
- Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it often lacks the same fresh taste and texture.
- Extras: For added flavor, consider incorporating ingredients like capers, roasted garlic, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon can transform this salad into a hearty main dish.
Classic Caesar Salad
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Baking sheet
- Skillet
- Tongs
- Garlic press (optional)
- Large salad bowl
Ingredients
- 1 head of romaine lettuce chopped
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- 2 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp anchovy paste optional
- 1/2 lemon juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- On a baking sheet, place the chopped romaine lettuce and bake for 10 minutes or until slightly wilted.
- In a skillet, heat up the olive oil and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dijon mustard, worcestershire sauce, anchovy paste (if using), lemon juice, and cooked garlic. Whisk until well combined.
- In a large salad bowl, add the wilted lettuce, grated parmesan cheese, and croutons.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and use tongs to toss everything together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and enjoy your classic Caesar Salad!