When it comes to salads, few dishes can compete with the popularity and elegance of the Classic Caesar Salad. With its crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, crunchy croutons, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this salad has earned its spot as a staple on dinner tables and restaurant menus across America. Simple yet sophisticated, it’s the perfect side dish—or even a light main course—that never goes out of style.
A Little History
The Caesar Salad is often thought of as Italian, but it was actually created in Mexico in the 1920s by Italian-American restaurateur Caesar Cardini. Legend has it that he whipped it up on the fly with ingredients he had on hand, and the result became an instant classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a traditional Caesar Salad, you’ll need:
Romaine lettuce – fresh and crisp, the base of the salad.
Caesar dressing – a creamy blend of garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, anchovies (optional but authentic), Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil.
Parmesan cheese – freshly grated for the best flavor.
Croutons – crunchy bites of toasted bread for texture.
Black pepper – freshly cracked, to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the lettuce Wash and dry the romaine thoroughly. Chop or tear into bite-sized pieces.
Make the dressing In a bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovy paste (if using).
Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until creamy. Stir in grated Parmesan.
Toast the croutons Cube day-old bread, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy.
Assemble the salad In a large bowl, toss the romaine with the dressing until evenly coated.
Add the croutons and more Parmesan. Finish with a crack of fresh black pepper.
Tips for the Best Caesar Salad
Use freshly grated Parmesan for richer flavor. Chill the lettuce before serving for extra crunch.
If you want protein, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon to turn it into a complete meal.
Why We Love It
The Classic Caesar Salad strikes the perfect balance—fresh, creamy, tangy, and crunchy. Whether you serve it as a starter at a dinner party or enjoy it on its own for lunch, it’s one of those dishes that always feels both comforting and refined.