Caesar Salad Recipe
Overview
Caesar Salad is a classic dish loved for its creamy dressing, crisp romaine lettuce, and savory flavors. This version offers a healthier twist, using fat-free ingredients without sacrificing the authentic taste that makes Caesar Salad a favorite. Anchovy paste, Worcestershire sauce, and Parmesan cheese blend together to create a dressing that’s rich and satisfying. Perfect for a quick meal or as a side dish, this recipe is not only delicious but also low in calories, making it suitable for those watching their weight.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to prepare this delightful Caesar Salad:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/4 cup |
| Fat-free mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Anchovy paste | 1/2 tsp |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1/2 tsp |
| Fresh ground pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Dry mustard | 1/8 tsp |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Romaine lettuce, torn | 4 cups |
| Whole wheat bread, cubed | 2 slices |
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 236.9
- Total Fat: 4.6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.6g
- Cholesterol: 8mg
- Sodium: 657.1mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 39.9g
- Dietary Fiber: 4.3g
- Sugars: 2.7g
- Protein: 9.7g
Cooking Instructions
-
Prepare Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Grate the Parmesan cheese if not already grated.
- In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, fat-free mayonnaise, water, fresh lemon juice, anchovy paste, Worcestershire sauce, fresh ground pepper, dry mustard, and minced garlic. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
-
Toast Bread Cubes:
- Place the cubed whole wheat bread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the bread cubes are toasted and golden brown.
-
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the torn romaine lettuce and the toasted bread cubes.
-
Add Dressing:
- Pour the prepared dressing over the lettuce and bread cubes.
- Toss gently to coat the salad evenly with the dressing.
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Serve:
- Divide the Caesar Salad onto plates or bowls.
- Optionally, garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Tips for Success
- Anchovy Paste: Don’t skip this ingredient! It adds a deep umami flavor that is characteristic of traditional Caesar Salad dressings.
- Toasting Bread: Ensure the bread cubes are evenly toasted to add a crunchy texture to the salad.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dressing and toast the bread cubes ahead of time. Store the dressing in the refrigerator and the toasted bread cubes in an airtight container until ready to assemble the salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy this Caesar Salad as a light lunch or serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or seafood.
- Pair with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a refreshing accompaniment.
Conclusion
This Caesar Salad recipe offers a healthier alternative to the classic while maintaining the robust flavors that make it a beloved choice. With its crunchy texture from toasted bread cubes and creamy dressing with a hint of tanginess, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re following a specific diet plan or simply looking for a delicious salad option, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Try it today and savor the satisfaction of a homemade Caesar Salad that’s both nutritious and delicious! 🥗
