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Classic homemade caesar salad 2026 04 09 135938 683x1024

Classic Homemade Caesar Salad

A timeless salad featuring fresh romaine lettuce, a rich creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons, perfect as a side or main dish.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 heads romaine lettuce (cored and cut into 1 ½” pieces) Use fresh for the best crunch and flavor.
  • ½ cup shaved parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups croutons Make your own for added flavor.

Dressing Ingredients

  • 2 small garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 can (2-oz) anchovies in olive oil, undrained Adjust according to your taste.
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (from one lemon)
  • 2 teaspoons Grey Poupon Country Style Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon Tabasco hot sauce
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise (best quality such as Hellmann's Real)
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
  • ¼ teaspoon salt Adjust seasoning to taste.
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adjust seasoning to taste.

Instructions
 

For the Dressing

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, anchovies (with oil), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco hot sauce, and mayonnaise.
  • Whisk the mixture until smooth.
  • Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking until well combined.
  • Stir in the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

For the Salad

  • In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce.
  • Pour the dressing over the lettuce and toss gently until the leaves are well coated.
  • Add croutons and shaved parmesan cheese on top.

Notes

Serve the salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Store the dressing and salad separately if there are leftovers to maintain freshness.
Keyword Caesar salad, Creamy Dressing, Easy Salad Recipe, Fresh Ingredients, Homemade Salad