Caesar Salad Recipe | Salad With Homemade Caesar Dressing

If you're craving a rich and creamy salad dressing with a zesty twist, look no further! Learn how to make the perfect Caesar Salad with homemade Caesar Dressing. This recipe combines the traditional flavors of a classic Caesar with fresh ingredients, giving you a healthy and delicious meal in under 30 minutes.

Why You'll Love This Spectacular Salad

• Fresh Ingredients. Made with fresh Romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a tangy homemade dressing.
• Delicious and Flavorful. Packed with the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and garlicky flavors.
• Easy to Make. This classic salad is quick and easy, with minimal prep time.
• Customizable. Add grilled chicken, bacon bits, or your favorite protein to make it a complete meal.

Whether you're preparing a light lunch or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this Caesar Salad recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!

Why Is It Called Caesar Salad?

Despite the name, Caesar Salad has nothing to do with Julius Caesar or ancient Rome. It was actually named after its creator, Caesar Cardini, an Italian-American restaurateur.

What Does It Taste Like?

Caesar Salad is a timeless favorite that combines the crispness of fresh Romaine lettuce with the richness of a creamy, garlicky dressing. Topped with crunchy croutons and a sprinkle of Parmesan, it's a perfect balance of flavors that are simple but delicious.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Romaine Lettuce- Crisp and refreshing, this is the base for your salad.
• Homemade Croutons- A great way to use up stale bread and add extra crunch.
• Parmesan Cheese- Freshly grated for that nutty, salty, and savory finish.
• Greek Yogurt- A creamy base for a lighter dressing that still has that rich texture.
• Garlic- Freshly minced to add the signature Caesar flavor.
• Dijon Mustard- Adds a mild tang and depth.
• Lemon Juice- For a refreshing, citrusy twist.
• Worcestershire Sauce- A key ingredient that brings umami to the dressing.
• Olive Oil- Adds richness and helps emulsify the dressing.
• Salt & Pepper- To taste, balancing the flavors.

How To Make Caesar Salad

1. Prepare the Croutons. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Cut a few slices of stale bread into cubes and toss them in olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until golden and crispy.
2. Make the Dressing. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
3. Assemble the Salad. Wash and dry your Romaine lettuce, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Add the lettuce to a large salad bowl. Pour in the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
4. Add Toppings. Sprinkle the homemade croutons and freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Toss again lightly to mix everything.
5. Serve and Enjoy! Serve your Caesar Salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light meal. Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon bits for extra protein.

Tips And Tricks

• Make Ahead Dressing. The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Use Fresh Garlic. Freshly minced garlic gives the dressing a better depth of flavor compared to garlic powder.
• Add Protein. To make this salad a full meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even steak strips.
• Crispier Croutons. Use day-old bread to make your croutons for the best texture and flavor.

Variations

Want to try something new? Here are a few variations to switch up your Caesar Salad:

• Vegan- Swap the Greek yogurt for cashew cream or vegan mayonnaise and use dairy-free croutons.
• Spicy- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to your dressing for a spicy kick.
• Avocado- Top your salad with slices of ripe avocado for a creamy texture and extra healthy fats.
• Grilled- Toss the lettuce on the grill for a smoky flavor before adding the dressing and toppings.

What To Eat With Caesar Salad

Caesar Salad pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp- A perfect protein pairing to make it a full meal.
• Garlic Bread- Serve alongside for extra crunch and flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables- Add some roasted broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers for a healthier, colorful addition.
• Soup- A creamy soup, like tomato or potato leek, complements the crispiness of the salad.

How Long Does It Last?

While the salad is best eaten fresh, the dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

As for the assembled salad, it's best to eat it the same day, but if you have leftovers, store the lettuce separately from the dressing and toppings to prevent sogginess.

More Simple Salad Recipes

• Burrata Salad
• Keto Broccoli Salad
• Italian Chopped Salad
• Spinach Salad
• Watermelon Feta Salad

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