Description
This Classic Caesar Salad recipe features crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy, tangy homemade dressing made from egg yolk, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic, anchovies, and Parmesan cheese. Topped with crunchy croutons and freshly grated Parmesan, it’s an easy and delicious Italian-American salad perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 1 large head romaine lettuce (washed, dried, and chopped)
- 1 cup croutons
- â…“ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Dressing
- 1 egg yolk (or 1 tablespoon mayonnaise for a no-raw-egg version)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 4 anchovy fillets (optional, finely minced)
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolk (or mayonnaise), Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and finely minced anchovy fillets if using. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Emulsify the Dressing: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture. This gradual addition helps to thicken and emulsify the dressing, creating a creamy texture.
- Finish the Dressing: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, then season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to taste. Mix well to combine all flavors.
- Toss the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and croutons. Pour the prepared dressing over them and toss gently until all leaves are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to serving plates or bowls, topping each with additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately to keep the lettuce crisp and fresh.
Notes
- To keep lettuce crisp, toss it with the dressing just before serving.
- For added protein, top the salad with grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Use pasteurized egg yolk or mayonnaise for a safer alternative if concerned about consuming raw egg.
- Anchovies are optional but add an authentic umami flavor to the dressing.
