Caesar Salad
Caesar Salad, a timeless and iconic dish, has woven its way into the fabric of culinary culture as a testament to the beauty of simplicity. Originating from the creative mind of Caesar Cardini in the 1920s, this salad has since become a global favorite,cherished for its harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 Generous portion of romaine lettuce, cleaned and finely chopped
- 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Grilled chicken strips or cooked shrimp
Instructions
- Ina large bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce. If using, add the grilled chicken strips or cooked shrimp for added protein.
- Sprinkle the croutons over the lettuce. The croutons contribute a satisfying crispy texture to the salad.
- Generously sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad. The cheese contributes a savory and salty element to the dish.
- Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad. Start with a moderate amount and adjust to your preference. The dressing should coat the ingredients without overwhelming them
- Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients. Make certain the dressing is spread uniformly.
- Finish the salad with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. The pepper adds a touch of warmth and flavor.
- Divide the Caesar Salad among individual serving plates or bowls.
- Optional:If desired, you can garnish the salad with extra Parmesan cheese shavings or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
Notes
- When making your own croutons, you can use day-old bread, drizzle it with olive oil, season with salt and your choice of herbs, and bake until golden and crispy.
- Traditional Caesar dressing includes ingredients like garlic, anchovies, egg yolk, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. You can use a store-bought version or make your own for a truly authentic experience.
- To make a vegetarian version, skip the anchovies in the dressing or opt for an anchovy-free dressing.
- If serving as a main course, consider adding grilled chicken or cooked shrimp for added protein.
- It's best to dress the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the lettuce and prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Caesar Salad can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to accompany various main courses.