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Cesar salad recipe

Ultimate Caesar Salad Recipe with Crunchy Homemade Croutons

This Caesar salad recipe offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with crunchy homemade croutons and zesty dressing.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Course salads
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • small bowl
  • large serving bowl
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

For the Croutons

  • 1 loaf French Baguette Using a fresh baguette helps achieve that perfect crunchy texture.
  • 3 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil This adds a rich flavor to your croutons while helping them crisp up beautifully.
  • 1 tsp Minced Garlic Fresh garlic infuses the croutons with aromatic goodness.
  • 2 Tbsp Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds a cheesy kick to the croutons.

For the Dressing

  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Adds depth to the dressing's flavor.
  • 1 Tbsp Dijon Mustard Gives the dressing a subtle tang.
  • 1 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce Enhances the savory notes of the dressing.
  • 2 Tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice Brightens the dressing.
  • 1 Tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Balances the dressing's flavors.
  • 1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Creates a smooth, emulsified dressing.
  • 1/2 tsp Sea Salt Enhances the flavors of the dressing.
  • 1/8 tsp Black Pepper Adds warmth to the dressing.

For the Salad

  • 1 head Romaine Lettuce Provides a crisp base for the salad.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Shredded or shaved for extra flavor.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350˚F.
  • Cut the baguette in half lengthwise and slice into 1/4" thick pieces. Arrange them on a baking sheet.
  • In a small bowl, combine 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil and 1 tsp minced garlic. Drizzle over the croutons and sprinkle with 2 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese. Toss to coat evenly.
  • Spread the croutons in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until light golden brown.
  • In another small bowl, whisk together 2 minced garlic cloves, dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar.
  • Gradually drizzle in 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil while whisking. Mix in 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper.
  • Rinse, dry, and chop or tear the romaine into bite-sized pieces.
  • In a large serving bowl, combine the romaine, shredded parmesan cheese, and cooled croutons. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.

Notes

Quality ingredients enhance the flavor. Dress the salad right before serving for best texture.
Keyword Cesar salad recipe, crowd-pleasing salad, easy salad, fresh ingredients, homemade croutons, quick dinner