Caesar salad is a timeless favorite, renowned for its crisp romaine lettuce, tangy dressing, and savory toppings. Its origin story traces back to the 1920s, credited to Italian-American restaurateur Caesar Cardini. Legend has it that this beloved dish was created out of necessity during a busy Fourth of July weekend when Cardini’s kitchen was running low on supplies. The result was a masterpiece that has stood the test of time. In this recipe, we will walk you through the steps to make a classic Caesar salad from scratch, ensuring each bite is as authentic and delicious as the original.
Ingredients for Classic Caesar Salad
For the Salad:
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup of croutons (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 anchovy fillets, minced
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Grilled chicken breast, sliced
- Grilled shrimp
- Bacon bits
How to Make Classic Caesar Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Lettuce
Start by thoroughly washing the romaine lettuce. Dry the leaves using a salad spinner or by patting them gently with paper towels. Tear the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Croutons
If you prefer homemade croutons, begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut day-old bread into cubes and toss them with olive oil, salt, and a pinch of garlic powder. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Let them cool before adding to the salad.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
- Coddle the Egg: Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and gently place the egg in the water. Let it cook for exactly 1 minute, then remove it and cool it under cold running water. This process helps achieve a thicker and creamier dressing.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the coddled egg, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and minced anchovy fillets until well combined.
- Emulsify the Dressing: Slowly add the extra-virgin olive oil in a steady stream while continuously whisking the mixture. This will help to emulsify the dressing, giving it a creamy texture.
- Flavor the Dressing: Whisk in the Worcestershire sauce, fresh lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Dress the Lettuce: Pour the dressing over the torn romaine lettuce in the large salad bowl. Toss gently to ensure each leaf is well coated with the dressing.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and croutons over the salad. If desired, add optional toppings such as grilled chicken breast, grilled shrimp, or bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Caesar salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it immediately after assembling to maintain the crispness of the lettuce and the crunch of the croutons.
About the Main Ingredients
Romaine Lettuce:
Romaine lettuce is the backbone of a classic Caesar salad. Its long, sturdy leaves provide the perfect crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing and crunchy croutons. Romaine lettuce is also rich in vitamins A and K, making it a nutritious base for this dish.
Anchovies:
Anchovies are small, oily fish that play a crucial role in the flavor profile of Caesar salad dressing. Despite their small size, they pack a punch of umami, adding depth and a slightly salty taste to the dressing. If you’re hesitant about anchovies, don’t worry—they blend seamlessly into the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor without being overpowering.
Parmesan Cheese:
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a staple in Caesar salad, contributing a nutty and savory flavor. Its fine texture allows it to cling to the lettuce leaves, ensuring that each bite is infused with its rich taste. Parmesan cheese is also a good source of calcium and protein, adding a bit of nutritional value to the salad.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil:
The quality of olive oil can significantly impact the dressing’s taste. Extra-virgin olive oil is preferred for its fruity and slightly peppery flavor. It acts as the base for the dressing, helping to emulsify and blend all the other ingredients together. Additionally, extra-virgin olive oil is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants.
Lemon Juice:
Fresh lemon juice provides the necessary acidity to balance the richness of the dressing. It adds a bright, zesty note that enhances the overall flavor and helps to cut through the creaminess. Lemon juice is also packed with vitamin C, contributing to the salad’s nutritional benefits.
Worcestershire Sauce:
Worcestershire sauce is a fermented liquid condiment that adds a complex, savory flavor to the dressing. It combines elements of sweet, sour, and umami, making it an essential component of an authentic Caesar salad dressing. A small amount goes a long way in elevating the dressing’s taste.
Croutons:
Croutons add a delightful crunch to the salad, providing textural contrast to the tender lettuce and creamy dressing. Homemade croutons are preferred for their freshness and ability to be customized with your favorite seasonings. They can be made from any bread, but day-old or slightly stale bread works best for achieving the right level of crispiness.
Making a classic Caesar salad from scratch may seem daunting at first, but with the right ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home. The key lies in balancing the flavors and textures, from the crisp romaine lettuce to the creamy, tangy dressing, and the crunchy croutons. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main course, this Caesar salad recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its authentic taste and fresh ingredients.
