Classic Caesar Salad | Salad Recipes | Crisp & Creamy
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Elevate your salad game with this Classic Caesar Salad, a timeless favorite that perfectly balances crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a rich, creamy dressing. Topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, it’s a delightful starter or a satisfying side dish that complements any meal.
Difficulty: Easy
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Rest Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cooking Temp: N/A
Estimated Cost: $12
Calories: 250 kcal per serving
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Description:
The Classic Caesar Salad is a staple in many households and restaurants, known for its delightful combination of flavors and textures. Crisp romaine lettuce is tossed with homemade or store-bought Caesar dressing, which is creamy and packed with umami flavor from ingredients like anchovies and garlic. Topped with crunchy croutons and a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying. It’s perfect as a side dish or can be easily transformed into a main course by adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (for homemade dressing)
- 1 anchovy fillet, minced (optional, for homemade dressing)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for homemade dressing)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (for homemade dressing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the lettuce: Wash and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Dry thoroughly using a salad spinner or kitchen towels.
- Make the dressing (if homemade): In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, anchovy fillet, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Slowly whisk in the Caesar dressing until well blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the salad: In a large mixing bowl, toss the chopped lettuce with the Caesar dressing until evenly coated.
- Add toppings: Gently fold in the croutons and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve: Divide the salad among plates or serve in a large bowl. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts (approx. per serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Calories from Fat: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Potassium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Vitamin A: 1200 IU
- Vitamin C: 10 mg
- Calcium: 250 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
Notes:
- Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the croutons separate to maintain their crunch.
- Customization: Feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon to make this salad a heartier main dish.
- Homemade Croutons: To make homemade croutons, toss cubed bread with olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian herbs, then bake at 190°C (375°F) for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
