Caesar salad

How to Make a Classic Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad is a timeless favorite, celebrated for its creamy dressing, crisp romaine, and savory crunch. While recipes vary, here’s a classic approach to crafting this iconic dish.

Ingredients: For the dressing, you’ll need 2 anchovy fillets (mashed), 1 garlic clove (minced), 1 egg yolk (use pasteurized for safety), 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp lemon juice, ⅓ cup olive oil, and ⅓ cup grated Parmesan. For the salad, 2 romaine hearts (chopped), 1 cup croutons, and extra Parmesan for topping.

Steps:

1. Make the dressing: Mash anchovies and garlic into a paste. Whisk in egg yolk and mustard, then slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until emulsified. Stir in lemon juice and 2 tbsp Parmesan; season with salt and pepper.

2. Prepare the salad: Wash and dry romaine thoroughly (watery lettuce ruins the texture). Toss with dressing until evenly coated.

3. Serve: Add croutons and remaining Parmesan, then toss lightly. Top with black pepper and an extra Parmesan shave if desired.

Variations: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or avocado for extra protein. For a vegan twist, omit anchovies and egg yolk, using tahini or silken tofu instead.

The key to a great Caesar? Fresh ingredients and a light hand—don’t overdress the lettuce! Enjoy this creamy, crunchy masterpiece in under 20 minutes.