Ingredients:
For the Salad:
1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped
1 cup of croutons (homemade or store-bought)
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
For the Caesar Dressing:
1-2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
4-5 anchovy fillets (or 1 tablespoon anchovy paste)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 large egg yolks (for creaminess, pasteurized if needed)
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste
Optional Additions:
Grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier version
A sprinkle of cracked pepper for extra flavor
Instructions:
Prepare the croutons: If you’re making your own, cube some day-old bread, toss it in olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy. Set aside.
Make the dressing:
In a medium bowl, mash the anchovy fillets with a fork to form a paste.
Add the minced garlic and Dijon mustard, stirring to combine.
Whisk in the egg yolks, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking constantly to emulsify the dressing. Continue until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust lemon juice or anchovies as needed for balance.
Assemble the salad:
In a large salad bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with a few spoonfuls of the dressing, ensuring all the leaves are lightly coated.
Add croutons and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss again.
Serve:
Divide the salad onto plates or bowls, and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
Garnish with freshly cracked pepper, and optionally top with grilled chicken or shrimp for a full meal.
Chef’s Tips:
Homemade croutons: For the best texture, make your own croutons with stale bread, olive oil, and a touch of garlic.
Anchovy flavor: For a more subtle taste, you can reduce the number of anchovies, or use anchovy paste for ease.
Egg-free option: Substitute egg yolks with mayonnaise for a creamy texture without using raw eggs.
This version of Caesar Salad balances the traditional flavors with modern techniques for a classic yet gourmet touch.
Lina