traditional caesar salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best traditional caesar salad recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite traditional Caesar salad recipe, a classic that never goes out of style. I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends.

The combination of crispy romaine lettuce, tangy parmesan cheese, and savory anchovies is a match made in heaven. This salad is more than just a tasty side dish; it’s a nostalgic trip back to the good ol’ days of Italian-American cuisine.

My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients, and they always get excited when they see the finished product on the table. As for me, I appreciate how easy it is to make this recipe at home, even on busy weeknights.

With its rich flavors and textures, this salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a quick and satisfying meal for your family. Plus, the health benefits of romaine lettuce, which is rich in vitamins A and K, make this salad a guilt-free choice.

My husband loves the way the dressing brings out the flavors of the other ingredients, and I appreciate how versatile this recipe is – you can easily customize it to suit your tastes by adding or substituting different ingredients. Overall, this traditional Caesar salad recipe has become a staple in our household, and I know it will be a favorite in yours too.

Classic Caesar Salad

4.7 from 1530 votes

A timeless Caesar salad with crisp romaine, homemade croutons, and a creamy anchovy-garlic dressing. This version stays true to the original with a rich, tangy flavor and a satisfying crunch.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Croutons

3 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Dressing

2 anchovy fillets, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg yolk
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Salad

2 heads romaine lettuce, washed and dried, torn into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2In a small skillet over medium heat, warm 3 tablespoons olive oil and add the minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
3Toss the bread cubes with the garlic oil, spread them on a baking sheet, and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring once, until golden and crisp.
4In a mixing bowl, combine the minced anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and egg yolk.
5Whisk until smooth, then slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while whisking constantly to form a thick emulsion.
6Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7Place the torn romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl.
8Pour the dressing over the lettuce and toss gently until every leaf is coated.
9Add the homemade croutons and shaved Parmesan, then toss once more to distribute evenly.
Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Baking sheet
Small skillet
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Large salad bowl
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 580mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 12g

📝Notes

For a milder anchovy flavor, use anchovy paste instead of whole fillets. The dressing can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; whisk before using. To make the salad more substantial, add grilled chicken or shrimp.

Watch Video Of How Classic Caesar Salad Works

This traditional Caesar salad recipe has been a staple in my household for years, and I know it will be a hit with your family too.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a quick and easy meal for your loved ones – this recipe delivers every time.

One thing I love about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile: feel free to customize it by adding or substituting different ingredients to suit your tastes.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Caesar Salad

What is the origin of Caesar salad?

Caesar salad was created by Italian-born chef Caesar Cardini in the 1920s at his restaurant in Tijuana, Mexico. According to legend, Cardini created the dish as a way to impress Hollywood stars during Prohibition-era America.

What type of lettuce is best for Caesar salad?

Romaine lettuce is the traditional choice for Caesar salad due to its crisp texture and mild flavor. However, you can also use other types of lettuce like arugula or spinach if you prefer.

How do I make Caesar dressing from scratch?

To make Caesar dressing from scratch, you’ll need garlic cloves, lemon juice, egg yolks, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, anchovy paste (optional), olive oil, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Can I use pre-made Caesar dressing?

Yes, you can use pre-made Caesar dressing if you prefer – just be aware that store-bought options may contain preservatives and artificial flavorings.

What’s the best way to store leftover Caesar salad?

To store leftover Caesar salad safely, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below – avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw meat and cooked foods separate.

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