Introduction
The Classic Caesar Salad is a timeless dish that combines crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy golden croutons, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a creamy, tangy Caesar dressing. Its origins trace back to the 1920s in Tijuana, Mexico, created by Italian-American restaurateur Caesar Cardini. Today, it has become one of the most loved and recognized salads worldwide.
What makes this salad special is the balance of flavors—the garlicky, cheesy, tangy dressing coats each crisp lettuce leaf, while the crunchy croutons provide texture. When made from scratch, with homemade croutons and fresh dressing, it feels both elegant and comforting.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it elevates a simple salad into something truly memorable. The homemade croutons are buttery, garlicky, and far superior to store-bought ones. The dressing is bold and creamy with just the right amount of tang from lemon and Worcestershire sauce.
It’s also versatile—it can be served as a light appetizer, a side dish, or even turned into a full meal with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon. The Caesar salad is one of those dishes that’s always welcome on the table.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
- It’s a restaurant-quality salad made easily at home.
- The homemade croutons and dressing make a huge difference in freshness and flavor.
- It works as both a starter and a main dish.
- It’s a classic recipe that everyone should know how to make.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: ~300–350 kcal per serving (without added protein)
Cuisine and Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Course: Salad / Appetizer / Side
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 large heads romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
For the Homemade Croutons
- 4 cups day-old bread, cut into cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Caesar Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 2 anchovy fillets or 1 tsp anchovy paste (optional but authentic)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Simple Cooking Directions
- Make croutons by toasting bread cubes with oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk together dressing ingredients until creamy.
- Toss romaine lettuce with dressing, croutons, and Parmesan.
Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method
Step 1: Make the Croutons
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix bread cubes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Caesar Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, anchovy paste, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Adjust consistency with a splash of water or extra lemon juice if too thick.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, add chopped romaine lettuce.
- Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.
- Add croutons and Parmesan cheese. Toss lightly.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate salad immediately for best crunch.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan shavings if desired.
How to Serve
- Serve chilled as a side to pasta, steak, chicken, or seafood.
- Turn it into a main dish by topping with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.
- Pair with garlic bread or soup for a complete meal.
Additional Recipe Tips
- Use day-old bread for croutons—it crisps up better.
- Chill lettuce before serving for extra crunch.
- Add more anchovy or Worcestershire sauce for deeper umami flavor.
- Make dressing in advance—it tastes better after sitting for 30 minutes.
Variations
- Chicken Caesar Salad: Add grilled chicken breast slices.
- Shrimp Caesar Salad: Top with grilled shrimp for a lighter twist.
- Kale Caesar Salad: Replace romaine with kale for a heartier option.
- Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in dressing.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Dressing: Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Croutons: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Not recommended for lettuce or dressing, but croutons can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Special Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheet for croutons
- Salad tongs
Conclusion
The Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons and Dressing is a refreshing, flavorful dish that proves why it has stood the test of time. With crisp lettuce, crunchy croutons, creamy dressing, and Parmesan cheese, every bite is satisfying and balanced. Whether served as a side dish or upgraded into a main meal, this Caesar salad recipe is a must-have in any kitchen.
Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons and Dressing
Description
The Classic Caesar Salad is a timeless dish that combines crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy golden croutons, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a creamy, tangy Caesar dressing.
Ingredients
For the Salad
For the Homemade Croutons
For the Caesar Dressing
Instructions
-
Step 1: Make the Croutons : Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).In a bowl, mix bread cubes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy. Set aside.
-
Step 2: Make the Caesar Dressing : In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, anchovy paste, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.Adjust consistency with a splash of water or extra lemon juice if too thick.
-
Step 3: Assemble the Salad : In a large bowl, add chopped romaine lettuce.Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.Add croutons and Parmesan cheese. Toss lightly.
-
Step 4: Serve : Plate salad immediately for best crunch.Garnish with extra Parmesan shavings if desired.
