Easy Homemade Caesar Salad That Everyone Loves

The Story Behind the Classic Caesar Salad

The Caesar Salad is a timeless dish known for its creamy, tangy dressing, crisp Romaine lettuce, and crunchy croutons. Though often associated with Italian cuisine, this dish was invented in 1924 by Caesar Cardini, an Italian-American chef in Tijuana, Mexico. Since then, it has become a staple on restaurant menus worldwide.

This homemade version delivers the same restaurant-quality taste but is fresh, preservative-free, and easy to make at home. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients:
✅ Romaine lettuce – High in fiber and vitamin K
✅ Parmesan cheese – A great source of calcium
✅ Olive oil – Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats
✅ Garlic & Lemon – Natural antioxidants that boost immunity

Now, let’s dive into the recipe! 🔥

⏳ Preparation & Cooking Time

🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 5 minutes (for croutons)
⏱ Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4 people

🥗 Ingredients for the Best Caesar Salad

For the Salad:

• 🥬 1 large head of Romaine lettuce (chopped)
• 🧀 ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 🥖 1 cup homemade croutons

For the Classic Caesar Dressing:

• 🥚 1 egg yolk (or Greek yogurt as a substitute)
• 🐟 2 anchovy fillets, finely minced (or 1 tsp anchovy paste)
• 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 🥄 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 🍋 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 🥄 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 🫒 ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 🧂 Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Homemade Croutons:

• 🍞 2 cups bread cubes (sourdough or baguette)
• 🧄 1 clove garlic, minced
• 🫒 2 tbsp olive oil
• 🧂 Salt & pepper, to taste

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Caesar Salad from Scratch

1️⃣ Prepare the Homemade Croutons

🔥 (If using store-bought croutons, skip this step.)

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss the bread cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway until golden brown and crispy.

2️⃣ Make the Creamy Caesar Dressing

1. In a bowl, whisk together egg yolk, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovies.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create a thick, creamy emulsion.
3. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Let the dressing chill in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes before serving.

(💡 Chef’s Tip: For an ultra-smooth dressing, blend all ingredients in a food processor! 🤩)

3️⃣ Assemble the Caesar Salad

1. Place chopped Romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl.
2. Drizzle half of the dressing over the lettuce and toss gently.
3. Add croutons and grated Parmesan, then drizzle the remaining dressing.
4. Toss again until everything is evenly coated.

🍽️ Plating & Presentation

✨ For a restaurant-style presentation:

• Serve in chilled bowls or plates for extra freshness.
• Top with extra shaved Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp on top for a protein-packed meal.

👨‍🍳 Chef’s Tips & Recommendations

✅ Use fresh Romaine lettuce – Its crunchiness makes a big difference!
✅ Anchovy alternatives: If you’re not a fan, try Worcestershire sauce or capers for a similar umami boost.
✅ Make the dressing ahead of time! It keeps well for 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
✅ Want a healthier version? Swap Greek yogurt for the egg yolk and use whole grain bread for croutons.

💬 Tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments below! And don’t forget to share your masterpiece on Instagram! 📸