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Crispy Classic Caesar Salad Recipe with Easy Homemade Croutons

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A quick and easy Caesar salad featuring fresh romaine, a balanced tangy dressing, and homemade garlicky Parmesan croutons for a crispy, flavorful experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 cups day-old bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (rustic sourdough or French bread preferred)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (for croutons)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
  • Salt, to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed (for dressing)
  • 2 anchovy fillets (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (vegan mayo can be used)
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for dressing)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cut day-old bread into roughly 1/2-inch cubes.
  2. Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add bread cubes to the skillet, sprinkle with Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt.
  5. Toss frequently to coat the cubes evenly with oil and garlic. Cook for 8-10 minutes until golden and crisp on all sides.
  6. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  7. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, anchovy fillets, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until smooth.
  8. Add mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese, then whisk again until fully combined.
  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the dressing feels too thick, add a teaspoon of warm water at a time to loosen it.
  10. Wash and dry romaine leaves thoroughly to avoid soggy salad. Tear into bite-sized pieces and place into a large salad bowl.
  11. Pour dressing over the lettuce. Using salad tongs or clean hands, toss gently but thoroughly until each leaf is coated with the dressing.
  12. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper over the top.
  13. Scatter the homemade croutons on top just before serving to keep them crisp.
  14. Give the salad one last gentle toss if you like croutons mingled throughout.

Notes

Be careful not to overdress the salad; start with less dressing and add more if needed. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty punch that pre-grated cheese can’t match. For gluten-free croutons, use gluten-free bread or roasted chickpeas. Dressing can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Toast croutons slowly over medium heat to infuse garlic flavor without burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caesar salad, homemade croutons, classic salad, easy salad recipe, romaine lettuce, Parmesan, garlic, quick salad

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/crispy-classic-caesar-salad-recipe-with-easy-homemade-croutons/