The Caesar salad is a timeless classic that has been a favorite for generations. With its crisp romaine lettuce, savory Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and Parmesan cheese, it’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Elevate your salad experience by making a homemade Caesar salad that surpasses anything you could find in a restaurant. Let’s dive into the steps to create this iconic dish.

Ingredients for Caesar salad:

For the Salad:

1. 2 heads of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
2. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3. 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
4. 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Caesar Dressing:

1. 1/2 cup mayonnaise
2. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3. 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
4. 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
6. 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
7. Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

1. Additional Parmesan cheese shavings
2. Freshly ground black pepper
3. Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Caesar Dressing:
   • In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste. If the dressing is too thick, you can thin it out with a little water.
2. Make the Croutons:
   • If you’re making croutons from scratch, toss bite-sized bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and garlic powder. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   • In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and halved cherry tomatoes.
   • Add the croutons to the bowl.
4. Dress the Salad:
   • Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad. Start with a moderate amount and add more to your liking. Toss the salad gently until the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Add Parmesan Cheese:
   • Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss again.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish the Caesar salad with additional Parmesan cheese shavings, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped fresh parsley if desired.
7. Serve Immediately:
   • Caesar salad is best served fresh. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or as a side dish to complement your favorite main course.

Conclusion

With its crisp greens, flavorful dressing, and satisfying crunch, this homemade Caesar salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Impress your family and friends with the rich, authentic taste of a classic Caesar salad made right in your own home. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations. Get ready to savor the timeless goodness of a homemade Caesar salad!