Classic Caesar Salad Recipe
The Classic Caesar Salad is a timeless favorite, known for its crisp freshness and delightful balance of flavors. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light meal, this salad combines crunchy greens with a savory dressing, making it the perfect complement to any meal. With only a few simple ingredients like lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes, paired with flavorful croutons and a rich homemade dressing, itโs a must-try recipe for your next summer gathering. Serve it alongside your favorite main dishes or enjoy it on its own as a refreshing appetizer.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lettuce | 2 cups, torn |
| Cucumber | 1/2 cup, chopped |
| Small Tomatoes | 1/4 cup, halved |
| Bread Croutons | 1/2 cup |
| For the Dressing | |
| Mayonnaise | 2 tbsp |
| Mustard Sauce | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp |
| Whole Black Pepper | 1 tsp, crushed |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, crushed |
| Sugar | 1/2 tsp |
| Parmesan Cheese | For garnish |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard sauce, salt, lemon juice, olive oil, whole black pepper, garlic, and sugar.
- Whisk everything together until smooth and well incorporated.
- Once mixed, place the dressing in the fridge to chill while you prepare the salad ingredients. This will enhance the flavor and allow the dressing to set.
-
-
Prepare the Salad:
- Tear the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a mixing bowl.
- To keep the lettuce leaves crispy and crunchy, add a little barg (optional) to the lettuce and allow it to sit for 10 minutes before continuing.
- After 10 minutes, discard the excess moisture and transfer the lettuce into another large mixing bowl.
- Add the chopped cucumber, halved tomatoes, and bread croutons to the lettuce.
-
Combine the Salad and Dressing:
- Drizzle the chilled dressing over the prepared salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an added burst of flavor and a touch of richness.
-
Serve:
- Serve your Classic Caesar Salad immediately as a refreshing appetizer or side dish.
- This salad pairs wonderfully with a warm French Onion Soup or a Roasted Vegetable Panini Sandwich, making it an ideal choice for a well-rounded dinner.
Notes:
- For a creamier dressing, you can adjust the amount of mayonnaise and mustard sauce according to your preference.
- If you prefer a more tangy flavor, you can add a little extra lemon juice or even a dash of vinegar.
- The Parmesan cheese can be substituted with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a different twist.
Enjoy the simple yet satisfying flavors of this Classic Caesar Salad, and make it a go-to dish for your upcoming meals. Whether itโs a casual dinner or a special occasion, itโs sure to impress!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 5mg |
| Sodium | 320mg |
| Sugar | 2g |
(These values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient substitutions and portion sizes.)
This recipe is a perfect addition to any meal and can be made ahead of time for a stress-free and delicious dish. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this Classic Caesar Salad will be an easy and flavorful crowd-pleaser!
