Name: Caesar Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 French baguette, cut in half and thinly sliced (1/4-inch thick); 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for croutons); 1 tsp minced garlic (about 2 small cloves); 2 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese; 2 small garlic cloves, minced (1 tsp); 2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 tsp fresh lemon juice; 1 1/2 tsp red wine vinegar; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (for dressing); 1/2 tsp sea salt, or to taste; 1/8 tsp black pepper, plus more to serve; 1 large romaine lettuce (or 2 small heads romaine); 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, shredded or shaved

Why You’ll Love Caesar Salad Recipe

This Caesar Salad stands out because everything is made fresh, including the golden, garlicky croutons and the bold homemade dressing. The balance of crisp lettuce, savory parmesan, and zesty dressing creates a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.

You’ll love how quickly it comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s elegant enough for entertaining yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Plus, you can customize it with protein additions or extra toppings to make it your own.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ French baguette, cut in half and thinly sliced (¼-inch thick)
3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 2 small cloves)
2 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese

2 small garlic cloves, minced (1 tsp)
2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 ½ teaspoon red wine vinegar
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
⅛ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to serve

1 large romaine lettuce (or 2 small heads romaine)
⅓ cup parmesan cheese, shredded or shaved

Directions

How to Make Croutons:

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice the baguette lengthwise through the top, then cut diagonally into ¼-inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet.
In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil with 1 teaspoon of minced garlic. Drizzle the garlic oil evenly over the bread slices and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.
Toss gently to coat. Spread the bread in a single layer and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until light golden and crisp to your liking. Let cool.

How to Make Caesar Salad Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar.
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking constantly to emulsify the dressing.
Add salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.

How to Make Caesar Salad:

Rinse and thoroughly dry the romaine lettuce. Chop or tear into bite-sized pieces and place in a large serving bowl.
Sprinkle generously with shredded or shaved parmesan cheese and cooled croutons.
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently until the lettuce is evenly coated. Serve immediately with extra black pepper if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon to turn this salad into a hearty main dish.

For extra crunch, mix in toasted pine nuts or roasted chickpeas.

Try using kale instead of romaine for a heartier, more robust texture.

Add anchovy paste to the dressing for a more traditional, bold Caesar flavor.

Use whole wheat or sourdough bread for the croutons to slightly change the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store the dressing separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Shake or whisk before using.

Croutons can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain crispness.

Store undressed lettuce in the refrigerator wrapped in paper towels inside a sealed container for up to 2 days.

Avoid storing the salad once it has been dressed, as the lettuce will become soggy. If needed, refrigerate and consume within 24 hours.

FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be prepared up to three days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Whisk again before serving.

How do I keep my lettuce crisp?

Make sure the romaine is completely dry before tossing. Using a salad spinner helps remove excess moisture.

Can I use store-bought croutons?

Yes, store-bought croutons can save time, but homemade ones offer fresher flavor and better texture.

What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

You can use a small amount of soy sauce or anchovy paste for a similar savory depth.

Is Caesar Salad traditionally made with anchovies?

Traditional recipes often include anchovies, either whole or as paste, to enhance the umami flavor.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free bread for the croutons or omit them entirely.

What protein pairs best with Caesar Salad?

Grilled chicken is the most popular option, but shrimp and salmon also pair beautifully.

How much dressing should I use?

Start with a small amount and toss gently. Add more as needed to lightly coat the lettuce without overwhelming it.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the brightest flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Why is my dressing separating?

If the oil was added too quickly, the dressing may not fully emulsify. Whisk vigorously or blend to bring it back together.

Conclusion

This Caesar Salad recipe delivers crisp textures, bold flavors, and a satisfying homemade touch with minimal effort. With fresh romaine, crunchy croutons, and a creamy, tangy dressing, it’s a timeless dish that’s easy to prepare and always impressive on the table. Whether served as a side or topped with your favorite protein, this salad is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

Caesar Salad Recipe