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The Best Caesar Salad Recipe

This Caesar Salad is a timeless classic! Creamy dressing, crunchy romaine, and savory toppings make it a crowd-pleaser!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy, Quick, Vegetarian
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Croutons:

  • 4 cups cubed bread cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil to season the croutons
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder for flavor
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt to enhance taste
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder for a hint of sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon pepper for some heat

For the Dressing:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise the base of the dressing
  • 1 clove garlic finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice to add brightness
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard to bring it all together
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • ½ teaspoon anchovy paste (optional) for umami
  • Pinch kosher salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad:

  • 1 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 hearts romaine lettuce the star of the show
  • 1 cup croutons for crunch
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese ribbons or shredded for garnish

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  • Step 1: Make the Croutons. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, olive oil, garlic powder, kosher salt, onion powder, and pepper. Toss until the bread is well coated. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, stirring once halfway through.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Dressing. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and grated Parmesan cheese. If you’re using anchovy paste, mix it in at this stage. Season the dressing with a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed.
  • Step 3: Assemble the Salad. Rinse the romaine lettuce under cold water and dry it thoroughly. Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large mixing bowl. Add the croutons and pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently to ensure every piece of lettuce is coated in the creamy dressing.
  • Step 4: Serve with Garnish. Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Top with additional croutons and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese ribbons or shreds for an elegant touch. Enjoy immediately!

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Whisk
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Serving Platter

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use stale bread for croutons.
  • High-quality mayonnaise will enhance the dressing's richness.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan gives a creamier texture compared to pre-grated.