Description
This classic Caesar Salad recipe features crisp romaine lettuce, homemade garlic croutons, and a creamy, tangy dressing made from Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, fresh lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a fresh side salad or a light meal, this Caesar Salad is easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients for a delicious and satisfying result.
Ingredients
Scale
Croutons
- 1/2 French Baguette, cut in half and thinly sliced (1/4″ thick)
- 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp minced garlic (2 small cloves)
- 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Dressing
- 2 small garlic cloves, minced (1 tsp)
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tsp red wine vinegar
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/8 tsp black pepper (plus more to serve)
- 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (for dressing)
Salad
- 1 large romaine lettuce (or 2 small heads romaine), washed and chopped
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded or shaved
Instructions
- Make the Croutons: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the thinly sliced baguette pieces on a baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil with 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. Drizzle this mixture over the bread slices and toss gently to coat. Bake for 10 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the minced garlic (1 teaspoon), Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper. Slowly drizzle in the 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil while continuously whisking to emulsify the dressing. Stir in 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Assemble the Salad: Chop the romaine lettuce and place it in a large salad bowl. Drizzle about half of the dressing over the lettuce and toss well to evenly coat. Add in the croutons and gently toss again. Garnish the salad with shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For crunchier croutons, toast the bread slices longer but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn this side salad into a hearty main dish.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Adjust salt and pepper in the dressing according to your taste preferences.
