Classic Restaurant Caesar Salad

Name: Classic Restaurant Caesar Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 heads romaine lettuce (washed and chopped); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 2 cups day-old bread (cubed); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 tsp anchovy paste; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1/4 cup olive oil; to taste salt and pepper

25 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

A timeless Caesar salad with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons.

Prep

15 min

Cook

10 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

The Classic Restaurant Caesar Salad is a staple in many households and eateries. Known for its rich, creamy dressing and crisp romaine leaves, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying. Our version of the Caesar Salad stays true to its roots, combining fresh ingredients with a homemade dressing that packs a flavourful punch. It’s perfect for those who love a balance of textures and bold flavours. Whether you're serving it as a side or a main dish, this salad is sure to impress. Ideal for anyone looking to replicate a restaurant-quality Caesar Salad at home, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that's both classic and delicious.

Instructions

Make the croutons

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss cubed bread with olive oil, spread on a baking sheet, and bake for 10 minutes until golden and crisp.

Pro tip: Use a mix of bread types for more interesting croutons.

Prepare the lettuce

Wash and chop the romaine lettuce, ensuring it's well-dried to prevent wilting.

Pro tip: Use a salad spinner to dry the lettuce thoroughly.

Mix the dressing

In a bowl, whisk together the garlic, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Slowly add the olive oil, whisking continuously until smooth.

Pro tip: Adjust the anchovy and garlic to your preference.

Season the dressing

Add salt and pepper to the dressing to taste.

Assemble the salad

In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine and croutons. Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat evenly.

Pro tip: Add dressing gradually to avoid overdressing.

Serve

Top the salad with grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Pro tip: For a special touch, add shaved Parmesan instead of grated.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh, crisp romaine lettuce for the best texture.
Homemade croutons add extra flavour and crunch.
Adjust the garlic and anchovy to your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a Caesar salad classic?

A classic Caesar salad features romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and a creamy dressing with anchovies, garlic, and lemon.

Can I make the Caesar dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

How many calories are in a classic Caesar salad?

A serving of this classic Caesar salad contains approximately 350 calories.

What can I serve with Caesar salad?

Caesar salad pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or as a side to pasta dishes.

How long does homemade Caesar dressing last?

Homemade Caesar dressing can last in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Can I omit the anchovies in Caesar dressing?

Yes, you can omit anchovies or use a substitute like capers for a similar salty flavour.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Classic Restaurant Caesar Salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a glass of crisp white wine or iced tea. Make the dressing and croutons ahead of time and store them separately. This allows for quick assembly when you're ready to serve. Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.