Classic Homemade Caesar Salad (2024)

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Enjoy the best classic Caesar salad with creamy dressing. Perfect for impressing guests, this recipe balances crisp romaine lettuce with a rich, tangy dressing made from anchovy fillets, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and a mayo base. Perfect as a side salad, or top it with grilled chicken for a hearty main dish.

My son Joseph is quite the cook these days, and whenever he's home, we love to spend time together in the kitchen. It's become our little tradition, one that I hold dear.

Though he's grown up and living his own life, those moments when we whip up something delicious together are truly special. I treasure every memory-making moment we spend together in my kitchen.

Whether we're perfecting a classic recipe or experimenting with new flavors, these cooking sessions are filled with laughter, stories, and the simple joy of being together.

The kitchen becomes more than just a place to cook; it transforms into a space where we reconnect, share our passions, and create lasting memories. It's a reminder that no matter how far life takes him, the love for good food and family always brings him back home.

One of our go-to recipes is Caesar salad. Joe has loved it since he was a kid, and it's always been a favorite of mine too. There's something magical about slicing through the crisp romaine hearts and tossing them in that creamy Caesar dressing that brings back memories of family dinners and laughter.

The Perfect Caesar Salad

A great Caesar salad hits that perfect balance of fresh and crisp, with just the right amount of creamy and cheesy dressing. The crisp romaine lettuce provides a refreshing crunch, while the creamy Caesar dressing and shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano add a rich, savory flavor that keeps you coming back for more. It pairs beautifully with a hot bowl of soup, almost any Italian meal, or a juicy steak.

Picture it next to a steaming bowl of minestrone, soaking up those hearty flavors, or complementing a plate of spaghetti carbonara with its bright, tangy notes. In fact, it's such a great way to start any meal that it could easily stand alone as a main dish when topped with grilled chicken breasts. The tender, smoky chicken adds a satisfying protein boost, transforming the salad from a side dish into a hearty, wholesome meal.

Whether you're serving it as a starter or a main course, a well-made Caesar salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

The Secret to Perfect Caesar Salad

Most folks opt for store-bought Caesar dressing, but making it from scratch is a game-changer. The difference is night and day. Homemade Caesar salad dressing is incredibly easy and so much tastier. This version is rich and creamy, without being too garlicky or fishy. It strikes that perfect balance, adding depth and flavor without overwhelming your taste buds. Plus, it's mayo-based, so no worries if you're not a fan of raw egg yolks. This means you get that luscious, creamy texture without any concern.

When it comes to anchovies, I prefer using whole anchovy fillets—they add a wonderful depth of flavor—but anchovy paste works just fine if you're not keen on handling the little fish. For the cheese, make sure to use imported Parmigiano-Reggiano from Italy. You can tell it's the real deal by checking the rind for the embossed name. It’s those little details that make all the difference. If you're buying it pre-grated, it should be labeled “Parmigiano-Reggiano” – not just “Parmesan.”

By using fresh, high-quality ingredients and taking a little extra time to make the dressing from scratch, you can elevate this humble salad to something truly special.

Prepping Your Lettuce

One of the most important lessons from culinary school was how to properly prepare lettuce for salads. It all starts with the basics: removing any wilted or damaged outer leaves. These can make even the freshest salad look a little sad, so out they go.

Next, separate the good leaves and soak them in ice water to remove any grit. This step is key for that pristine crunch. There's nothing worse than a gritty bite of salad!

After a good soak, rinse the leaves well under cold running water. Then, remove the tough middle veins, which can be a bit too fibrous and chewy.

Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces, ensuring each bite is manageable and pleasant.

Finally, use a salad spinner to dry them thoroughly. This extra care results in crisp romaine leaves that make for a delicate and delicious salad.

Taking these steps might seem tedious, but trust me, the payoff is in every crisp, refreshing bite of your salad. It's these little touches that elevate your dish from good to unforgettable.

Making Homemade Croutons

Homemade garlic croutons are the crowning glory of a great Caesar salad. To make your own croutons, start with some thick slices of day-old bread. Cut the bread into cubes, toss them with olive oil and minced garlic, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Bake at a low heat until they are golden brown and crunchy. If you’re short on time, store-bought croutons will work in a pinch, but making your own is well worth the effort.

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Can you make Caesar Salad ahead of time?

• This salad is best served fresh and immediately after tossing with the dressing, however, you can do some preparation in advance: Prepare the dressing, croutons, and lettuce ahead of time, but store them separately. This keeps the components fresh. Assemble just before serving.

Try these other delicious salad recipes!

• Spring Greens with Pears, Sugared Walnuts, and Gorgonzola
• Green Salad with Mandarin Oranges and Candied Almonds
• Fresh Tomato Salad