Classic Caesar Salad
I first made this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick yet satisfying. With fresh romaine lettuce, crunchy homemade croutons, and a tangy, garlicky dressing, it became an instant hit in our house. Even my kids, who usually shy away from salads, eagerly reached for seconds—mostly for the croutons, but I’ll take it as a win!
What I love most about this Caesar salad is how effortlessly it comes together while still feeling like a restaurant-quality dish. The dressing, made from scratch with just a few pantry staples, is a game-changer. It’s creamy, packed with umami from Parmesan and anchovies, and has just the right zing from fresh lemon juice and Dijon mustard. The homemade croutons, golden and crisp, add a delightful crunch that makes all the difference.
Whether it’s a side dish for a hearty pasta dinner or the star of a light lunch with grilled chicken or shrimp, this Caesar salad never disappoints. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but requires minimal effort—a true staple for busy families. If you’ve been looking for a go-to Caesar salad recipe, I promise this one will quickly earn a spot in your rotation.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Can I make this Caesar dressing without anchovies?
Yes! If you prefer to skip anchovies, you can substitute Worcestershire sauce or extra Parmesan cheese for a similar depth of flavor.
What’s the best type of bread for homemade croutons?
A rustic loaf like sourdough or a baguette works best. The key is using slightly stale bread for the crispiest croutons.
Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan instead of fresh?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better into the dressing, but pre-shredded will work in a pinch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the dressing separately from the lettuce to keep it fresh. Croutons should be stored in an airtight container to stay crispy.
What protein pairs well with this salad?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon are great additions if you want to make it a full meal.
What You Need to Make Classic Caesar Salad
Ingredients:
1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups cubed bread (for croutons)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 garlic clove, minced
3 anchovy fillets, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon anchovy paste)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
Special Equipment:
Large salad bowl
Baking sheet for croutons
Whisk for dressing
How to Make Classic Caesar Salad
Step 1: Make the Croutons
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Toss the cubed bread with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Spread evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, anchovies, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, toss the romaine lettuce with the dressing until evenly coated.
Add the croutons and Parmesan cheese, tossing lightly to combine.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Classic Caesar Salad
Use fresh, crisp romaine for the best texture.
Chill your lettuce before serving to keep the salad extra refreshing.
Make the dressing ahead of time—it tastes even better after sitting for a few hours.
For extra crunch, add roasted chickpeas or even toasted nuts.
Customize it! Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier version.
Reader Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Absolutely delicious! The homemade dressing is a game-changer. My family loved it!” – Sarah M.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Great recipe! I added grilled chicken, and it was a complete meal. Will make again.” – Jason T.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The best Caesar salad I’ve ever made. The croutons were so crispy and flavorful!” – Emily R.
⭐⭐⭐ “Loved the dressing but might use store-bought croutons next time for convenience.” – Laura P.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This was a hit at dinner! Even my picky eater enjoyed it. Perfect balance of flavors.” – Mark L.
Printable Recipe
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Classic Caesar Saald
This Classic Caesar Salad is a must-have recipe for any home cook. With crisp romaine, homemade croutons, and a creamy, garlicky dressing, it’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether served as a side or topped with grilled chicken for a full meal, this salad is easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cubed bread (for croutons)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 3 anchovy fillets, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon anchovy paste)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Special Equipment:
- Large salad bowl
- Baking sheet for croutons
- Whisk for dressing
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Croutons
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss the cubed bread with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, anchovies, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, toss the romaine lettuce with the dressing until evenly coated.
- Add the croutons and Parmesan cheese, tossing lightly to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
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