Classic Caesar Salad is a popular dish that combines crisp romaine lettuce with juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy croutons, and a creamy dressing. This version takes it up a notch with the addition of Asiago cheese, giving the salad a rich and savory flavor. Enjoy this fresh salad as a starter or a main dish, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite for many.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Classic Caesar Salad with Asiago Caesar Dressing is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly fresh and full of vibrant flavors. The creamy dressing complements the crispness of the romaine lettuce perfectly. Additionally, it’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent option for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends. Plus, who doesn’t love cheese?
How to Make Classic Caesar Salad with Asiago Caesar Dressing
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup croutons
- ½ cup shaved parmesan (or shredded)
- Cracked black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 pressed garlic clove
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ cup shredded asiago cheese
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the 4 cups of chopped romaine lettuce and the 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes.
- In a food processor or blender, combine 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 pressed garlic clove, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ¼ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of olive oil, and ½ cup of shredded asiago cheese. Pulse until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the lettuce and tomatoes, then toss to coat evenly.
- Top the salad with 1 cup of croutons, ½ cup of shaved parmesan, and garnish with cracked black pepper.
How to Serve Classic Caesar Salad with Asiago Caesar Dressing
Serve the Classic Caesar Salad immediately after tossing it with the dressing to keep everything crisp. Place the salad in a large bowl or individual plates. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
How to Store Classic Caesar Salad with Asiago Caesar Dressing
If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until ready to eat, as the lettuce can get soggy. The dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Tips to Make Classic Caesar Salad with Asiago Caesar Dressing
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker dressing, add more mayonnaise.
- For added crunch, consider using homemade croutons.
- Feel free to mix in other vegetables, like cucumbers or radishes, for extra texture.
Variation
You can easily customize this Classic Caesar Salad by adding protein, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to make it a complete meal. You can also try using different types of cheese, like feta or blue cheese, for a unique taste.
FAQs
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Is Caesar Salad gluten-free?
The traditional Caesar Salad is not gluten-free due to the croutons. You can use gluten-free croutons or skip them to make a gluten-free version.
Can I substitute other types of lettuce?
Yes, you can use other types of greens, like kale or spinach, but the classic flavor comes from romaine lettuce.
Classic Caesar Salad with Asiago Caesar Dressing
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce Fresh and crisp lettuce
- 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes For a sweet burst of flavor
- 1 cup croutons Crunchy store-bought or homemade
- ½ cup shaved parmesan Or use shredded parmesan cheese
- to taste cracked black pepper For finishing touches
Dressing
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 clove pressed garlic Add more for a stronger flavor
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup mayonnaise For creaminess
- ¼ cup olive oil Extra virgin recommended
- ½ cup shredded asiago cheese For a rich, savory flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and cherry tomatoes.
- In a food processor or blender, combine Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, pressed garlic, black pepper, mayonnaise, olive oil, and shredded asiago cheese. Pulse until smooth.
Tossing the Salad
- Pour the dressing over the lettuce and tomatoes, then toss to coat evenly.
- Top the salad with croutons, shaved parmesan, and garnish with cracked black pepper.
Serving
- Serve the salad immediately after tossing to keep everything crisp. Place in a large bowl or individual plates.
