Cesar Salad Recipe
Introduction
Crisp romaine leaves, creamy dressing, and a touch of garlic come together in a classic Cesar salad. That irresistible combination has made it one of the most loved salads in the world. Every bite is crunchy, savory, and fresh at the same time. Crisp lettuce meets salty parmesan and crunchy croutons, lifted by a zesty dressing. It feels light but satisfying.
Making a homemade Cesar salad brings joy to any meal. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. It can also shine on its own as a light lunch or side dish. Families appreciate how easy it is to make yet how impressive it looks on the plate. With fresh ingredients and simple tools, you can elevate your everyday dining.
Many store‑bought dressings promise Cesar flavor but often rely on artificial additives. Homemade dressing, by contrast, features real garlic, freshly grated cheese, and tangy lemon. Anchovy paste adds umami. Olive oil gives silkiness. Even without anchovies, the salad still feels robust and refined.
This article guides you step by step through a classic Cesar salad from scratch. You will learn how to prepare the ingredients, balance flavors, and adapt the recipe to your taste or dietary needs. Whether you make it for a casual meal or a special occasion, this Cesar salad recipe will deliver fresh flavor and crisp texture every single time.
Ingredients Needed
Here is a list of ingredients for a classic Cesar salad that serves four. Each item also includes the calorie count to help you balance nutrition.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Romaine lettuce leaves | 2 hearts (about 8 cups) | 160 |
| Parmesan cheese (fresh grated) | 1/2 cup | 216 |
| Olive oil | 1/3 cup | 640 |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup | 360 |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | 7 |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | 5 |
| Garlic clove (minced) | 1 large | 5 |
| Anchovy paste (optional) | 1 teaspoon | 7 |
| Croutons | 2 cups | 240 |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | 1/8 teaspoon | 0 |
Estimated total calories: 1840
Calories per serving (divided by four): Approximately 460
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the lettuce
Start by washing each romaine heart under cold running water. Shake off excess moisture. Chop the lettuce into bite sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl. Store the washed lettuce in a towel‑lined container if prepping ahead of time.
2. Make the dressing
In a small jar or bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and anchovy paste if you choose to use it. Whisk vigorously until it becomes smooth and slightly thickened. Taste and add salt and black pepper as needed.
3. Toast or prepare croutons
If you prefer homemade croutons, cube day old bread and toss it in a little olive oil. Bake at low temperature for about 10 minutes until crispy. Let them cool before adding to salad. Store‑bought croutons also work well.
4. Grate Parmesan cheese
Using a fine microplane or grater, grate fresh parmesan cheese. Pre grated cheese does not melt as nicely in the dressing. Place it in a small dish or directly on the salad when ready to serve.
5. Toss the salad
Pour about half of the dressing over the chopped romaine. Gently toss with salad tongs or clean hands. Add half of the croutons and half of the cheese. Toss again until everything is lightly coated and distributed.
6. Plate and finish
Divide the salad into four bowls or a large serving plate. Drizzle more dressing on top if desired. Sprinkle with remaining parmesan cheese and croutons. Finish with a small crack of black pepper.
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Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Use alternative greens
You can mix romaine with baby kale, arugula, or spinach to add variety and extra nutrients.
Make it lighter
Replace some of the mayonnaise and olive oil with plain Greek yogurt. That keeps creaminess and adds protein.
Make it vegan
Skip the anchovy paste, mayonnaise, and parmesan. Use vegan mayo, nutritional yeast, and caper brine for umami.
Add protein
Grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or seared salmon make this salad a full meal. Just slice and place on top of the tossed lettuce.
Try bacon bits
A sprinkle of crispy bacon or pancetta adds crunch and smoky salt flavor.
Spice it up
A dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes lifts the dressing to a new level.
Make it garlicky
Increase the garlic to two cloves if you enjoy bold garlic flavor. Roasted garlic makes it more mellow and sweet.
Swap croutons
Try walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds instead of croutons for crunch and a gluten free option.
Nutritional Information
Here is the approximate nutrition content per serving based on the base recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 460 |
| Protein | 7 grams |
| Fat | 44 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 11 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugars | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 470 mg |
Keep in mind that adding proteins or other toppings will change these values.
Serving Suggestions
Cesar salad works beautifully as an appetizer before pasta or grilled fish. It also makes a light lunch, especially when paired with soup. Assemble the greens ahead of time so guests can top with dressing before eating. For entertaining, serve it in individual bowls to make plating easy and elegant. It also pairs well with crusty bread or garlic bread.
When weather is warm, Cesar salad is a refreshing choice that still feels indulgent. In cooler months, adding roasted chicken or bacon makes it more comforting. Leftovers store well; keep dressing separate and toss just before eating to preserve crispness. Use any leftover salad to top wraps or grain bowls for extra flavor.
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Conclusion
Classic Cesar salad brings together crunch, creaminess, and bright flavor in every bite. With fresh greens, creamy homemade dressing, and crisp croutons you are guaranteed satisfaction. It works well as a light meal or side dish that impresses without much effort. Recipe is easy to tailor—whether you adapt it for vegans, lighten it for dietary needs, or add protein for dinner. It is consistent, approachable, and always ready to enhance your meals. Homemade Cesar salad recipes allow you to enjoy fresh flavor and simple elegance at home.