Caesar Salad Recipe: A Classic Made Easy
The Caesar salad. A culinary icon, a simple yet elegant dish that’s graced tables for generations. While many variations exist, this recipe focuses on capturing the essence of the classic, delivering a vibrant and flavorful experience that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Let's dive in!
Ingredients for a Perfect Caesar Salad (Serves 2-4)
This recipe provides the building blocks for a fantastic Caesar salad. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your needs.
- For the Salad:
- 1 large head of Romaine lettuce, or equivalent amount of pre-washed lettuce mix, crisp and cold
- 1/2 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought – see tips below!)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for optimal flavour
- For the Dressing (the heart of the Caesar!):
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (high-quality makes a difference!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large clove garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed is key!)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste (start with a pinch and adjust)
- 1 anchovy fillet, finely minced (optional, but adds a complex depth of flavour)
Instructions: Crafting Your Caesar Masterpiece
This step-by-step guide ensures a perfectly balanced and delicious Caesar salad every time.
1. Prepare the Croutons (Optional, but Recommended):
Homemade croutons are incredibly easy and elevate the entire salad. Simply cube stale bread (day-old baguette is ideal), toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown and crispy.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and salt. If using anchovies, add them now and whisk until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This is your chance to perfect the flavour!
3. Assemble the Salad:
Wash and thoroughly dry the romaine lettuce. Tear or cut it into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, gently toss the lettuce with the Caesar dressing, ensuring each leaf is lightly coated.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Gently fold in the croutons and Parmesan cheese. Avoid over-mixing to prevent the lettuce from wilting.
5. Serve Immediately:
A classic Caesar salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve immediately and savor the flavour!
Tips for Caesar Salad Success:
- High-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the salad. Fresh, high-quality ingredients are essential for a truly memorable Caesar.
- Don't overdress: Too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed.
- Freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan often contains cellulose, which can affect the flavour and texture.
- Get creative!: Once you've mastered the classic, experiment with additions like grilled chicken, shrimp, or different types of cheese.
This Caesar salad recipe is your guide to creating a delicious and iconic dish in your own kitchen. Enjoy!
