Introduction
Caesar Salad is a classic dish that has become a staple in American cuisine. With its crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and savory Parmesan cheese, it’s no wonder this salad has remained popular for decades. Originally created in Tijuana, Mexico, by Italian immigrant Caesar Cardini, this salad has since evolved into countless variations but retains its signature flavors. In this guide, we’ll explore how to make a traditional Caesar Salad from scratch, highlighting key ingredients, preparation techniques, and tips for achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 head of romaine lettuce, washed and dried
- 1 cup homemade or store-bought croutons
- 1/2 cup shaved or grated Parmesan cheese
For the Caesar Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 anchovy fillets, finely chopped or mashed (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2-4 tablespoons olive oil (for desired consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, anchovy fillets (if using), Dijon mustard, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and well combined.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency by adding olive oil, starting with 2 tablespoons and adding more as needed until you reach your desired thickness.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Tear or chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl.
- Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the lettuce and toss gently to coat the leaves evenly with the dressing.
- Add the croutons to the salad and toss again to distribute them throughout the salad.
- Sprinkle the shaved or grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Caesar Salad immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper if desired.
- Enjoy this classic salad as a starter, side dish, or even a main course by adding grilled chicken or shrimp
Conclusion
Caesar Salad is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by salad lovers around the world. With its crisp romaine lettuce, tangy dressing, crunchy croutons, and savory Parmesan cheese, it’s a salad that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. By following this guide and incorporating the suggested ingredients, instructions, and tips, you can create a homemade Caesar Salad that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the fresh flavors and simple elegance of this iconic salad, and savor every bite.