The Ultimate Caesar Salad Recipe: Simple, Delicious, and Unforgettable!

I recently made a Caesar salad recipe, and let me tell you—it wasn’t just any Caesar salad. This one has that special homemade dressing that takes it to another level! This version includes cheesy garlic croutons and a perfectly balanced dressing. 

If you’ve never had a Caesar salad made from scratch, you’re missing out. Trust me, it’s a game-changer! Now, let me walk you through how to make this incredibly satisfying dish, perfect for any occasion—from casual dinners to Thanksgiving feasts.

Want another great recipe idea? Dive into our Potato Salad recipe for a hearty and zesty meal option.

Ingredients You will Need Caesar Salad Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make the best Caesar salad, including the homemade dressing and cheesy croutons:

• Crusty bread (enough for 2 cups of croutons): Choose a rustic bread with a thick crust for a satisfying crunch that holds up well in the salad.
• 2 hearts of Romaine lettuce, chopped & cleaned: Romaine is the classic choice for a Caesar, with its crisp, refreshing crunch. Be sure to clean it thoroughly.
• 1½ cups Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is always best for this salad. Pre-grated cheese won’t melt or taste as rich.
• 3 anchovy fillets: These add that classic umami flavor. Don’t skip them! They really bring the dressing together.
• 3 garlic cloves: Fresh garlic adds a sharp, fragrant taste to the dressing and croutons. Don’t skimp!
• 2 egg yolks: They help create the creamy texture in the dressing. Make sure they’re fresh!
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard: This adds a tangy kick and helps emulsify the dressing.
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar: The acidity of red wine vinegar balances the richness of the dressing.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Use good-quality olive oil for the dressing; it makes a big difference in flavor.
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice: A fresh squeeze of lemon brightens up the dressing and gives it a nice, zesty finish.
• Flaky salt & fresh ground pepper: For seasoning. Adjust to taste, but don’t be shy with the salt—it enhances the flavors!
  

Note: This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people, depending on portion size.

Variations to Try

You can easily make this Caesar salad your own with a few substitutions:

• Dairy-Free: Swap the Parmesan for a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for the croutons, and you’ve got a gluten-free Caesar salad that everyone can enjoy.
• Vegan: Omit the egg yolks and use vegan mayo or cashew cream for the dressing base. You can also replace the anchovies with a small amount of miso paste for that umami kick.
• Extra Flavor: Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat!

Pair your next meal with our Fruit Salad recipe for a satisfying and nutritious side dish.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

This Caesar salad comes together quickly, making it a great option for a last-minute meal or a special side dish.

Equipment You Need

• Medium bowl: For mixing the dressing.
• Whisk: To properly emulsify the dressing.
• Pan: For toasting the croutons to golden perfection.
• Tongs: To toss the salad and coat the lettuce evenly with dressing.

How to Make Caesar Salad?

Before you start preparing the recipe, gather all your ingredients and equipment so you’re ready to go!

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, combine the egg yolks, Dijon mustard, and red wine vinegar. Whisk it together until it forms a smooth, creamy texture. This forms the base of your dressing. Now, slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk, allowing it to emulsify and thicken up. The key to a great Caesar dressing is the perfect consistency, so add a little water to thin it if needed.

Step 2: Add the Anchovies and Garlic

Next, chop the anchovy fillets and two garlic cloves finely, then mash them into a paste. Stir this into the dressing mixture. This step is crucial—anchovies are the secret to the rich, savory flavor of this salad. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and squeeze in the lemon juice for that burst of freshness. Mix everything together thoroughly. Taste and adjust with a bit of salt and pepper if needed.

Step 3: Make the Croutons

Cut the crusty bread into slices, then rub one garlic clove over each slice for that extra garlicky punch. Chop the bread into small, bite-sized chunks. Heat a pan and drizzle in olive oil. Once hot, add the bread and toast until golden brown on both sides, tossing them frequently to ensure they cook evenly. When they’re just about done, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top for that cheesy, crispy finish.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Place the chopped Romaine lettuce in a large bowl. Pour the freshly made dressing over the lettuce and toss it gently with tongs until the leaves are perfectly coated. Sprinkle more Parmesan cheese on top and add a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper. Finally, toss in the warm, cheesy croutons and give it one last mix. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and crunchy!

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Here are a few personal tips to elevate this Caesar salad:

• I always use freshly grated Parmesan—it really makes a difference in the flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
• If you want a thicker dressing, add a little more egg yolk. It will give you a richer, creamier texture.
• When making the croutons, don’t rush. Let them get golden and crispy, as that crunch adds a ton of texture to the salad.
• Fresh lemon juice is a must for the dressing. Bottled lemon juice just doesn’t cut it!
• I recommend making extra croutons because they are super addictive and can be snacked on throughout the day!

For tasty and easy-to-make salad options, explore our selection of salad recipes.

How to Serve Caesar Salad?

This Caesar salad is the perfect side dish for any meal, but here are some ideas to make it shine:

• Add Protein: Turn it into a main dish by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits.
• Presentation Tip: Serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl to show off the beautifully tossed lettuce and golden croutons.
• Garnish: For extra flair, garnish with a few extra lemon wedges and a light drizzle of olive oil for that finishing touch.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown of this Caesar salad:

• Calories: 350 kcal (per serving)
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 25g

Keep in mind, the dressing and croutons add a bit of richness, but it’s worth every bite!

How to Store the Caesar Salad?

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover dressing, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Toss it with fresh lettuce when you’re ready to serve again.

Freezing

While I wouldn’t recommend freezing the salad once it’s assembled, the dressing itself can be frozen for up to a month. Just thaw and give it a good whisk before using.

Reheating

Croutons are best fresh, but if you must, you can gently reheat them in a pan for a few minutes to revive their crispiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are so many reasons to adore this Caesar salad:

• Simple to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, this salad is easy to prepare and always delivers.
• Classic Flavor: The combination of creamy dressing, crunchy croutons, and fresh lettuce is a timeless favorite.
• Customizable: You can easily add protein or modify the recipe to fit dietary needs, like gluten-free or vegan.
• Impressive Presentation: Whether it’s a family meal or a holiday gathering, this salad always looks beautiful on the table.
• Satisfying and Filling: Thanks to the creamy dressing and hearty croutons, this salad can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side.

FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes! The dressing can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good whisk before using.

Can I use store-bought croutons?

While homemade croutons are best, store-bought croutons can save you time in a pinch. Just make sure they’re crispy!

How do I make this salad healthier?

You can reduce the fat by using a lighter dressing or replacing the egg yolks with a lower-fat alternative. For a lower-carb option, skip the croutons or use a low-carb bread.