What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade Caesar salad recipe is a game-changer for any meal, offering freshness and flavor in every bite. You’ll love how simple it is to make, even if you’re new to cooking.
- Crisp romaine lettuce pairs perfectly with crunchy croutons for that classic Caesar texture.
- A creamy, tangy dressing made from scratch adds a rich taste you can’t get from store-bought versions.
- It’s versatile, serving as a quick lunch, a side dish, or even the star of your dinner table.
Recipe
Caesar salad is a classic dish that combines crisp romaine lettuce, savory Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. This homemade version brings freshness and simplicity to your table, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup croutons
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 egg (optional, for traditional dressing)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. If using the egg, add it to the mixture and whisk until well combined.
- In a large salad bowl, add the torn romaine lettuce.
- Pour the dressing over the lettuce and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Add the croutons and grated Parmesan cheese, and toss again.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the Worcestershire sauce or use a vegetarian alternative.
- If raw eggs are a concern, use pasteurized eggs or skip the egg altogether.
Equipment:
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
Nutrition
A classic Caesar salad is packed with fresh ingredients and rich flavors. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade Caesar salad with classic pairings like garlic bread or grilled chicken, but sometimes I get creative with sides like roasted veggies or crispy polenta. The salad’s bold flavors work with so many dishes, so don’t be afraid to mix it up. Let’s talk about my favorite options to make your meal even better.
Classic Pairing Options
When you’re serving up a Caesar salad, it’s always nice to pair it with something hearty or equally satisfying. I love pairing mine with grilled chicken—it’s simple, protein-packed, and lets the salad shine. A juicy steak or garlicky shrimp also works wonders, adding richness without overpowering the flavors. For a lighter touch, try crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up that creamy dressing. If you’re craving carbs, a side of pasta or a warm baked potato balances the crisp greens perfectly. These classic combos keep the meal balanced, making your Caesar salad the star while still feeling complete.
Creative Side Dishes
If you’re looking to jazz up your Caesar salad, creative side dishes can turn a simple meal into something special. I love serving mine with crispy garlic breadsticks or roasted sweet potato wedges for a sweet-savory twist. A tangy caprese skewer with cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella adds color, while grilled shrimp or lemon-herb chicken keeps it light but filling. For crunch, try spiced chickpeas or Parmesan zucchini chips. My go-to? A warm bowl of tomato basil soup—it’s cozy and pairs perfectly. Don’t be afraid to mix textures and flavors; it’s all about making the meal your own!
