Caesar Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Caesar Salad is simple, elegant, and packed with bold, umami-rich flavor. The combination of crisp romaine, garlicky dressing, and salty Parmesan makes each bite irresistible. It pairs well with just about any main dish and can be easily upgraded with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a complete meal. Plus, it comes together quickly with pantry-friendly ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Romaine lettuce
• Croutons (store-bought or homemade)
• Parmesan cheese (shaved or grated)
• Anchovy fillets or paste (optional but traditional)
• Garlic (minced)
• Egg yolk (or use mayonnaise as an alternative)
• Dijon mustard
• Lemon juice
• Worcestershire sauce
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, anchovy paste, egg yolk or mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to create an emulsified, creamy dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Prep the lettuce: Wash and dry the romaine lettuce thoroughly. Chop or tear into bite-sized pieces and place in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add croutons and cheese: Toss in croutons and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dress the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the lettuce and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Serve immediately: Top with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 as a side or 2 as a main dish. Prep time is about 15 minutes. No cooking required unless making homemade croutons.

Variations

• Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or a soft-boiled egg for a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian version: Omit anchovies or use capers for a briny substitute.
• Lighter dressing: Use Greek yogurt or skip the egg for a lighter variation.
• Kale Caesar: Replace romaine with massaged kale for a twist.
• Spicy Caesar: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the dressing.
• Homemade croutons: Toast cubed bread in olive oil and garlic for fresh, crispy croutons.

Storage/Reheating

Caesar Salad is best enjoyed fresh. If storing, keep the dressing separate from the lettuce to prevent sogginess. The dressing can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Dressed salad should be eaten the same day. Do not freeze.

FAQs

What is the origin of Caesar Salad?

Caesar Salad was created in the 1920s by Italian-American chef Caesar Cardini in Tijuana, Mexico.

Do I have to use anchovies?

Traditional recipes include them for depth of flavor, but they can be omitted or replaced with capers if preferred.

Can I make Caesar dressing without raw egg?

Yes, substitute with mayonnaise or use pasteurized eggs for safety.

How can I make the salad vegan?

Use vegan mayonnaise, skip the Parmesan, and replace anchovies with miso or capers for umami.

What kind of lettuce is best?

Crisp romaine lettuce is the traditional and best choice for texture and flavor.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Are homemade croutons worth it?

Absolutely. They add fresh flavor and crunch, and you can season them to your liking.

What’s the best Parmesan for Caesar Salad?

Use freshly grated or shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano for the best flavor.

Is Caesar Salad gluten-free?

It can be if you use gluten-free croutons and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use bottled dressing?

You can, but homemade Caesar dressing delivers fresher, more authentic flavor.

Conclusion

Caesar Salad is a beloved classic for a reason—simple ingredients, bold flavor, and unbeatable texture. Whether served as a crisp side or hearty main, it’s a versatile dish that suits nearly any meal. With fresh lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons, it’s a timeless recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

Caesar Salad

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Caesar Salad is a classic dish featuring crisp romaine lettuce, creamy garlic-Parmesan dressing, crunchy croutons, and a sprinkle of salty cheese. It’s bold, fresh, and perfect as a starter or light main.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 main servings or 4 side servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

• 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup croutons
• 1/2 cup grated or shaved Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1–2 anchovy fillets or 1 tsp anchovy paste (optional)
• 1 egg yolk or 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together minced garlic, anchovy paste (if using), egg yolk or mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Wash, dry, and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large bowl.
4. Add croutons and Parmesan cheese to the lettuce.
5. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
6. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper if desired.

Notes

• Use pasteurized egg or mayonnaise for a safer alternative to raw egg yolk.
• Store dressing separately and toss just before serving to maintain crispness.
• Homemade croutons offer better flavor and texture—toast cubed bread in olive oil and garlic.
• For a vegetarian version, omit anchovies or use capers as a substitute.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 side serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 35mg