Classic Caesar Salad
This Classic Caesar Salad is crisp, creamy, and packed with the timeless flavors that have made it a favorite for generations. Featuring crunchy romaine lettuce, homemade garlic-Parmesan croutons, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a rich Caesar dressing, this restaurant-quality salad is simple to prepare and perfect as a side dish or light meal.Fresh, flavorful, and ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the ultimate Caesar salad recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crisp and refreshing
Creamy homemade dressing
Classic restaurant-style flavor
Easy to make from scratch
Perfect side dish or lunch
Ready in 20 minutes
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Salad
2 large heads romaine lettuce, chopped
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Freshly cracked black pepper
Homemade Garlic Croutons
3 cups crusty bread, cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Pinch of salt
Classic Caesar Dressing
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 teaspoon anchovy paste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Croutons
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, toss bread cubes with:
Olive oil
Garlic
Italian seasoning
Salt
Spread on a baking sheet.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, stirring once, until golden and crisp.
Allow to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
Mayonnaise
Parmesan cheese
Dijon mustard
Lemon juice
Worcestershire sauce
Garlic
Anchovy paste (if using)
Olive oil
Season with salt and black pepper.
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Place chopped romaine lettuce in a large serving bowl.
Add:
Parmesan cheese
Croutons
Pour the dressing over the salad.
Toss until evenly coated.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Top with:
Extra Parmesan shavings
Freshly cracked black pepper
Serve immediately.
Optional Add-Ins
Grilled chicken
Grilled shrimp
Salmon
Crispy bacon
Avocado slices
Hard-boiled eggs
Roasted chickpeas
Notes & Tips
Recipe Notes
Romaine lettuce provides the classic Caesar crunch.
Fresh Parmesan makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Homemade croutons elevate the entire salad.
Expert Tips
Chill the lettuce before serving for maximum crispness.
Dress the salad just before serving to prevent wilting.
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
For a lighter dressing, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dressing ahead?
Yes. Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Do I need anchovies?
No, but anchovy paste adds the authentic Caesar flavor. Worcestershire sauce alone still provides great depth.
Can I use store-bought croutons?
Absolutely, although homemade croutons offer the best texture and flavor.
How do I make it a complete meal?
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, steak, or chickpeas for extra protein.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free bread for the croutons.
Nutritional InformationÂ
Calories: 320
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Sodium: 450mg
Final Thoughts
This Classic Caesar Salad delivers everything you want from a Caesar: crisp romaine, crunchy garlic croutons, rich Parmesan cheese, and a creamy homemade dressing. Whether served as a side dish or topped with your favorite protein, it’s a timeless recipe that never goes out of style.