To Caesar salad is one of the most traditional and popular recipes in the world, known for its unique taste and perfect combination of simple ingredients that result in an explosion of flavors. With its creamy dressing based on mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic and anchovies, it wins over both salad lovers and those who aren't usually fans of vegetables. If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-prepare option, this salad is a perfect choice!
Ingredients:
For the salad:
- 1 iceberg lettuce (or 2-3 hearts of romaine lettuce)
- 1 cup croutons (can be bought ready-made or prepared at home)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably fresh)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (for the croutons, if preparing at home)
For the Caesar sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1 clove of garlic, chopped or crushed
- 1 teaspoon chopped anchovies (optional, but authentic)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions:
1. Preparing the Croutons
If you decide to make the croutons at home, start by cutting 2 slices of bread into small cubes. Heat a large frying pan with a little olive oil and add the bread cubes. Fry them over medium heat until golden and crispy, stirring occasionally to prevent them from burning. Once ready, remove from the heat and set aside.
2. Preparing the Caesar dressing
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped garlic, Worcestershire sauce and anchovies (if using). Mix well until all the ingredients are completely incorporated. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it mixes well with the sauce, creating a creamy, homogeneous texture.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember that anchovies and Parmesan cheese are already salty, so be careful when adding salt.
3. Assembling the salad
Wash the leaves of iceberg (or romaine) lettuce well and dry them thoroughly with a clean tea towel or a salad spinner. Cut the leaves into large pieces or tear them with your hands, depending on your preference.
Place the lettuce leaves in a large bowl. Then add the croutons and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
4. Finishing the Salad
Pour the Caesar dressing over the salad and mix well so that all the lettuce leaves are well covered in the creamy dressing. Serve immediately so that the salad stays fresh and crunchy. If you prefer, garnish with more Parmesan cheese on top and, if desired, some additional anchovies for an extra touch of flavor.
Tips for a Perfect Caesar Salad:
- Homemade sauce: Homemade dressing is the secret to a delicious Caesar salad. Anchovies are traditional and help give the dressing a distinctive flavor, but if you prefer a milder version, you can omit them.
- Fresh croutonsHomemade croutons are much tastier and crispier. If you're in a hurry, you can use ready-made croutons, but they may be a little less crunchy.
- LettuceRomaine lettuce is the most traditional for this recipe, but iceberg lettuce is also a good option as it has a crunchier texture.
- Parmesan cheesePrefer freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a more intense flavor. Avoid powdered Parmesan cheese, which has a less authentic taste.
- VarietyTo vary the recipe, you can add grilled chicken breast or prawns to make it a more complete meal.
Perfect accompaniments for Caesar salad:
Caesar salad can be served as a starter or accompaniment to main dishes such as fish, grilled meat or even as part of a salad buffet. It is also excellent when combined with a pasta dish, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, or a light risotto.
