Caesar Salad

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine tossed in a rich anchovy-garlic-Parmigiano dressing and piled with crunchy croutons and cheese. A world-loved classic, born in Tijuana, Mexico in 1924.

Ingredients

2servings
  • Romaine lettuce · torn bite-size1 head
  • Baguette/bread · for croutons2 slices
  • Parmigiano · grated or shaved40 g
  • Olive oil · for croutons2 tbsp
  • Chicken breast · optional, grilled1 piece
  • Dressing
  • Mayonnaise · or 1 egg yolk3 tbsp
  • Anchovies · minced, or 1 tsp fish sauce3
  • Garlic · finely minced1 clove
  • Lemon juice1 tbsp
  • Dijon mustard1 tsp
  • Parmigiano · grated, for dressing2 tbsp
  • Olive oil3 tbsp
  • Black pepper · generous

Steps

  1. Cube the bread, toss in olive oil, and toast in a pan or oven (180C) until golden and crisp to make croutons.

    ⏲ 8 min
  2. Whisk all the dressing ingredients (mayo, anchovy, garlic, lemon, mustard, Parmigiano, olive oil, pepper) into a smooth dressing.

    ⏲ 2 min
  3. Wash the romaine, dry it thoroughly, and tear into bite-size pieces. Wet leaves make the dressing slide off.

  4. (Optional) Season and grill the chicken breast, then slice.

  5. Toss the romaine with the dressing in a bowl until every leaf is coated.

    ⏲ 1 min
  6. Top with croutons, plenty of grated Parmigiano, and black pepper. Add the chicken for a chicken Caesar. Serve right away.

Tips & Variations

Variations

  • Chicken Caesar: Add grilled chicken breast to make it a meal.
  • Caesar wrap: Roll it up in a tortilla.
  • No anchovy: Sub Worcestershire or fish sauce for the umami.
  • Kale Caesar: Use kale instead of romaine for a heartier salad.

Tips

  • Dry the romaine completely so the dressing clings.
  • Anchovy is the key to the umami — don't skip it; a little isn't fishy.
  • The classic uses raw egg yolk, but mayonnaise is easy and safe.
  • Add croutons fresh and crisp, and toss the dressing just before serving.
  • Fun fact: Caesar salad was invented in Tijuana, Mexico in 1924 (Caesar Cardini).

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