Description
A classic Caesar Salad featuring homemade garlic Parmesan croutons and a creamy, tangy dressing made from Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar. This recipe provides a fresh, crisp, and flavorful salad perfect as a light meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Croutons
- 1/2 French baguette, cut in half lengthwise and sliced into 1/4″ thick pieces
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic (2 small cloves)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Caesar Salad Dressing
- 2 small garlic cloves, minced (1 teaspoon)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Salad
- 1 large or 2 small heads romaine lettuce
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded or shaved
- Prepared croutons (from above)
Instructions
- Make the Croutons: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice and Prep: Cut the baguette in half lengthwise and then slice into 1/4-inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet.
- Garlic Oil: Combine olive oil and minced garlic in a small bowl. Drizzle this garlic-infused oil over the bread slices, then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Toss the bread slices gently to coat them evenly with the garlic oil and Parmesan. Spread them out in a single layer and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they turn light golden and crisp. Remove from oven and let cool.
- Make the Caesar Salad Dressing – Whisk Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, fresh lemon juice, and red wine vinegar. Whisk vigorously until blended.
- Add Olive Oil: Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing emulsifies and becomes smooth.
- Season: Stir in sea salt and black pepper to taste, mixing well to incorporate all flavors.
- Assemble the Caesar Salad – Prep the Lettuce: Rinse and dry the romaine lettuce thoroughly. Chop or tear into bite-sized pieces and place into a large serving bowl.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese over the lettuce and add the cooled homemade croutons.
- Toss with Dressing: Drizzle the prepared Caesar dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure the lettuce and toppings are evenly coated. Serve immediately for best freshness and taste.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add anchovy paste to the dressing, though it is not included in this recipe.
- Make sure the lettuce is thoroughly dried after washing to help the dressing adhere better.
- Croutons can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container for crispness.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and vinegar according to your preferred tanginess level.
- Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor impact.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
