A Classic Caesar Salad is one of those timeless dishes that never goes out of style. Known for its crisp romaine lettuce, bold garlic flavor, and rich, creamy dressing, this iconic salad has earned its place on restaurant menus and home dinner tables alike. When made from scratch, a Caesar salad delivers layers of savory, tangy goodness that far surpass any bottled version.
This authentic Caesar salad recipe focuses on simple, high-quality ingredients that work together to create the perfect balance of flavors. Fresh lemon juice adds brightness, Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty depth, and anchovies provide that signature umami flavor that defines a true Caesar dressing. Tossed with crunchy croutons and freshly cracked black pepper, every bite is satisfying and flavorful.
Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a side dish for pasta or steak, or the base for a hearty protein-topped salad, this classic Caesar salad is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon, making it an easy option for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests.
Best of all, this homemade Caesar salad comes together in minutes and requires no cooking, making it perfect for busy days when you still want something fresh and impressive. Once you try this restaurant-style Caesar salad made from scratch, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
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Classic Caesar Salad
A timeless favorite, this Classic Caesar Salad features crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy, garlicky dressing with Parmesan, crunchy croutons, and a bright squeeze of lemon. Simple, elegant, and endlessly satisfying.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 large heads romaine lettuce, washed, dried, and chopped
- 1 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Caesar Dressing
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 anchovy fillets, finely minced (or 1 tsp anchovy paste)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 large egg yolk (or 2 tbsp mayonnaise for no-egg option)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Make the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together garlic, anchovy, Dijon mustard, egg yolk, and lemon juice. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until creamy. Stir in Parmesan and season with salt and pepper. -
Assemble the Salad
Place romaine lettuce in a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently until evenly coated. -
Finish & Serve
Top with croutons, extra Parmesan, and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.
Notes
Cooking Tips
-
Dry romaine thoroughly to help the dressing cling better.
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Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
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Toss gently to avoid bruising the lettuce.
🔄 Variations
-
Grilled Chicken Caesar: Add sliced grilled chicken breast for a hearty meal.
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Shrimp Caesar: Top with grilled or sautéed shrimp.
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No-Anchovy Version: Omit anchovies and add an extra pinch of salt and Worcestershire sauce.
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Vegan Caesar: Use vegan mayo, capers instead of anchovies, and dairy-free Parmesan.
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Kale Caesar: Swap romaine for chopped kale (massage first for tenderness).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g




