Caesar Salad Croutons

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Caesar salad is everything you want from a perfect salad: crisp, garlicky, tangy, and cheesy. The homemade croutons add a delightful crunch, while the anchovy-based dressing gives it that authentic depth of flavor. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough for entertaining. Plus, you can easily adapt it to your taste with different variations.

Ingredients

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

For the croutons:

• 1/3 medium loaf sourdough boule or ciabatta bread (about 5 ounces)

• 2 cloves garlic

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

• Kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

For the dressing and assembly:

• 1 medium lemon

• 4 anchovy fillets packed in oil, drained

• 2 large egg yolks, preferably pasteurized

• 1 clove garlic

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 3/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed

• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• Kosher salt

• 1 ounce Parmesan cheese (about 2/3 cup finely grated or 1/2 cup store-bought grated), divided

• 2 medium romaine lettuce hearts (about 8 ounces total)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF and place a rack in the middle.

2. Tear the bread into 1/2-inch pieces and place on a baking sheet. Mix garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan, then drizzle over the bread. Toss, season with salt and pepper, and spread in a single layer. Bake 10 to 15 minutes until crisp and golden.

3. For the dressing, juice the lemon (about 2 tablespoons). Blend with anchovies, egg yolks, garlic, Worcestershire, Dijon, and black pepper until smooth.

4. Slowly stream in olive oil while blending until creamy and emulsified. Transfer to a bowl, stir in 2 tablespoons Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper.

5. Chop or separate the romaine. Place in a large bowl and toss with 2/3 of the dressing. Add half of the croutons and half of the remaining Parmesan, tossing gently.

6. Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with the rest of the croutons, Parmesan, and black pepper. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: About 30 minutes

Variations

• Replace egg yolks with 2 tablespoons mayonnaise for a no-egg version.

• Use Greek yogurt in the dressing for a lighter, tangier twist.

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon to make it a complete meal.

• Try kale or mixed greens in place of romaine for extra nutrition.

• Swap out sourdough for whole-grain bread for healthier croutons.

Storage/Reheating

• The dressing can be made up to 1 day ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container. Whisk before using.

• Croutons can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Assembled salad should be eaten fresh, as the dressing will soften the lettuce quickly.

FAQs

What makes Caesar salad dressing unique?

The combination of anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, and Parmesan creates a rich, savory flavor that sets it apart from other dressings.

Can I make Caesar salad without anchovies?

Yes, but anchovies add depth. You can omit them or replace them with extra Worcestershire sauce for a similar umami taste.

Is it safe to eat raw egg yolks in Caesar salad?

Pasteurized egg yolks are recommended for safety, but you can also substitute mayonnaise to avoid raw eggs altogether.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, it can be prepared up to 1 day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

How do I keep croutons crunchy?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature and only add them to the salad right before serving.

Can I use bottled Caesar dressing instead of homemade?

Yes, but homemade dressing provides fresher and more authentic flavor.

What type of lettuce is best for Caesar salad?

Romaine lettuce is traditional due to its crisp texture and ability to hold up to the dressing.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Yes, skip the anchovies and use a vegetarian Worcestershire sauce substitute.

How can I make Caesar salad a main dish?

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or even steak for a hearty meal.

How long does Caesar salad last once assembled?

It’s best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours, though the lettuce will soften.

Conclusion

This Caesar salad recipe delivers a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements that make it endlessly satisfying. With homemade croutons and a rich, flavorful dressing, it elevates the classic salad into something special. Whether served as a side or a main with added protein, this dish is sure to impress every time.

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