Fast forward to this century and you have what is probably the most popular restaurant salad in America, with plenty of variations around the theme of romaine lettuce, garlic, Parmesan, and croutons. What follows is my friend Suzanne’s recipe. I love Suzanne’s family-sized Caesar salad, and have been a frequent guest at her house when it has been served (lucky!).
Homemade Caesar Salad Croutons
In this recipe we are making croutons from scratch, from baguette slices that have been brushed with olive oil, toasted, and then roughly chopped. You toast the baguette slices while the garlic soaks in olive oil in the serving bowl, which a great way to infuse the oil with garlic.
Homemade Caesar Salad Dressing
Classic Caesar Salad dressing is made with olive oil, garlic, raw eggs, and anchovies. The eggs give the dressing creaminess, and the anchovies? A salty, savory deliciousness. If you don’t have access to anchovies, just add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the dressing.
Safety Tips for Using Raw Eggs in Salad Dressing
A note about using raw eggs in salad dressing. Because of the risk of salmonella, it’s a good idea to avoid them if you are serving this to the very young, very old, pregnant, or immune compromised. To avoid eggs altogether, you can simply make a garlicky vinaigrette. It won’t be as creamy, but you won’t sacrifice flavor either.
Caesar Salad With No Anchovies
Don’t be afraid of using anchovies – they give Caesar salad its trademark taste. But if you don’t have anchovies or anchovy paste available, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the dressing. If it’s vegan Worcestershire sauce, that also makes the salad vegetarian friendly!
Like Caesar Salad? Check Out These Other Salad Recipes!
Kale Caesar Salad Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Grilled Romaine Salad Chicken and Avocado Salad With Buttermilk Dressing Mixed Green Salad with Pecans, Goat Cheese, and Honey Mustard Vinaigrette
Brush or spray with olive oil (or melted butter). If you want garlicky croutons, dip pastry brush in the garlic infused oil you have sitting in Step 1. Broil for a couple of minutes until the tops are lightly browned. (Note: do not walk away, these can easily go from browned to burnt.) Remove and let cool. The steps up until this point can be made ahead. Did you love the recipe? Leave us stars below!
