How to Make a Classic Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad is a timeless dish with a perfect balance of crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and flavorful toppings. Follow these steps to create a delicious Caesar salad from scratch.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 anchovy fillets, minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, and anchovy fillets (if using). Add Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until smooth. Gradually drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Wash and dry the romaine lettuce thoroughly. Chop into bite-sized pieces. Place the lettuce in a large salad bowl.
Toss the lettuce with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and croutons.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Add extra Parmesan and croutons if desired.
Plate the salad immediately to keep the lettuce crisp. Optional: Garnish with cracked black pepper or lemon wedges.
Enjoy your homemade Caesar salad as a side dish or add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon to make it a hearty meal!