Crisp Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad with perfectly crisp romaine lettuce, tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing with crunchy croutons and sharp Parmesan cheese. This iconic salad is a timeless favorite.

Crisp Caesar Salad
  • Prep time: 19 minutes
  • Cook time: 0 minutes
  • Total time: 19 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

  • 2 large heads of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
  • 1 cup croutons
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  2. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing emulsifies and thickens.
  3. Add the chopped romaine lettuce to the bowl with the dressing.
  4. Toss the lettuce gently to coat evenly with the dressing.
  5. Add the croutons and grated Parmesan cheese and toss again.
  6. Serve immediately.

Tips

  • Ensure the romaine lettuce is thoroughly dried after washing to prevent a watery salad.
  • For a richer dressing, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make this a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the Caesar dressing ahead of time?

The Caesar dressing can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Whisk again before tossing with the lettuce.

Can I use raw eggs in the dressing?

This recipe uses raw egg yolks. If you are concerned about consuming raw eggs, you can use pasteurized egg yolks, or opt for a cooked dressing base.

What are some alternatives to croutons?

Toasted baguette slices, seasoned breadcrumbs, or even crispy fried onions can be used as alternatives to traditional croutons for added crunch.