Caesar Salad is one of the most recognisable salads in the world, celebrated for its bold, creamy dressing and crisp, fresh textures. Although often associated with Italian cuisine, Caesar Salad was actually created in the early 20th century by Italian-American restaurateur Caesar Cardini, making it a true Italian-American classic.
Originally prepared tableside, the salad was designed to be simple yet luxurious, using quality ingredients and strong flavours. Over time, it evolved into the globally loved dish we know today, often served as a starter or light main course and easily adapted with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.
This Caesar Salad recipe stays true to the classic preparation while remaining approachable for home cooks. With a homemade dressing and perfectly balanced flavours, it delivers a restaurant-quality salad that never goes out of style.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (for croutons)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 1 large romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
- 1 cup croutons
- 40 g Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Caesar Dressing
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 anchovy fillets, finely minced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 120 ml olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Additions
- Grilled chicken breast
- Grilled shrimp
- Crispy bacon bits
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Wash and thoroughly dry the romaine lettuce. Chop into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl.
- To make the dressing, whisk together egg yolk, Dijon mustard, anchovies, garlic, and lemon juice.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking continuously to create a creamy emulsion.
- Season the dressing with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the dressing to the lettuce and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle in croutons and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Toss lightly again to combine.
- Add optional grilled protein if desired.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavour.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Use fresh romaine lettuce for maximum crunch.
- Anchovies are traditional and essential for authentic flavour, but anchovy paste can be used as a substitute.
- For a lighter version, reduce the oil slightly or add a splash of water to thin the dressing.
- For a vegetarian option, omit anchovies and use extra Parmesan.
- Homemade croutons add superior flavour compared to store-bought versions.
What to Serve With Caesar Salad
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Garlic bread
- Soup
- Pasta dishes
- Roasted vegetables
Storage & Reheating
Caesar Salad is best served fresh. If necessary, store dressing separately in the refrigerator for up to two days. Do not store dressed salad, as the lettuce will wilt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Caesar Salad Italian or American?
It was created by an Italian immigrant in North America, making it an Italian-American dish.
Can I make Caesar dressing without raw egg?
Yes, mayonnaise can be used as a substitute for raw egg yolk.
Is Caesar Salad healthy?
It can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, especially when served with lean protein and controlled dressing portions.
Final Thoughts
This Caesar Salad recipe delivers crisp textures, bold flavours, and classic appeal. Simple yet elegant, it’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly into The Recipe Kitchen’s collection of authentic global recipes.
