Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce and crunchy croutons tossed in a creamy, umami-rich dressing made from scratch. This classic Caesar salad is a timeless favorite, perfect as a lunch or a sophisticated side dish.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Prepare the lettuce
- a.Wash the romaine leaves thoroughly, then dry them completely using a salad spinner or by patting with paper towels. Chop or tear into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large salad bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the dressing.
- 2
Create the dressing base
- a.On a cutting board, sprinkle a little salt over the minced garlic. Use the flat side of a chef's knife to press and scrape the garlic into a smooth paste. Add the minced anchovy fillets and continue to mash until a cohesive paste forms.
- 3
Mix the dressing
- a.In a medium bowl, combine the garlic-anchovy paste, egg yolk, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy, about 30 seconds.
- 4
Emulsify the dressing
- a.While whisking constantly, begin adding the olive oil one drop at a time. Once it starts to thicken, you can pour the remaining oil in a very thin, steady stream. Continue whisking until all the oil is incorporated and the dressing is thick and creamy.
- 5
Finish the dressing and assemble the salad
- a.Stir 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese into the dressing, along with the salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the chilled lettuce from the fridge, pour about three-quarters of the dressing over it, and toss gently to coat. Add the croutons and the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, and toss briefly once more.
- 6
Serve immediately
- a.Garnish with extra freshly ground black pepper and shaved Parmesan if desired.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use a high-quality, freshly grated block of Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- 2Ensure your romaine lettuce is completely dry. Dressing adheres better to dry leaves and prevents a watery salad.
- 3If you're concerned about using raw egg yolk, look for pasteurized eggs at your grocery store.
- 4For an extra layer of flavor, rub the inside of your salad bowl with a cut garlic clove before adding the lettuce.
- 5To make delicious homemade croutons, toss cubes of day-old bread with olive oil and herbs, then bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crisp.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or salmon to turn this salad into a complete and satisfying main course.
Vegetarian/VeganVegetarian/Vegan
Omit the anchovies and use a vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. For a vegan version, replace the egg yolk with vegan mayo, omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative, and ensure your croutons are vegan.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a little extra heat.
Kale CaesarKale Caesar
Substitute half or all of the romaine lettuce with chopped kale. Be sure to massage the kale with a little dressing first to soften the leaves.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins A & K
Romaine lettuce is an excellent source of Vitamin A, crucial for vision and immune function, and Vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Heart-Healthy Fats
The dressing is made with extra virgin olive oil, which is high in monounsaturated fats. These fats can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.
Source of Protein
The Parmesan cheese and egg yolk contribute protein, which is vital for building and repairing tissues and maintaining muscle mass.
Antioxidant Properties
Garlic and lemon juice are packed with antioxidants that help protect the body against damage from free radicals and support overall cellular health.
Frequently asked questions
It can be part of a healthy diet. The romaine lettuce is rich in vitamins, and the olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats. However, the dressing is high in calories and fat. For a healthier version, use the dressing sparingly and add lean protein like grilled chicken.