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Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons

The Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons is a timeless and beloved dish that has stood the test of time. This iconic salad is named after its creator, Caesar Cardini, an Italian-American restaurateur who first concocted the recipe in the 1920s in Tijuana, Mexico. The salad has since become a staple on menus around the world, and for good reason.

Prep Time:

25 mins

Cook Time:

15 mins

Total Time:

40 mins

Servings:

Ingredients

½ (1 pound) loaf sourdough bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

¼ cup olive oil

¼ cup butter, melted

2 cloves garlic, pressed

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

2 cloves garlic, pressed

3 anchovy fillets, chopped

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 large egg yolk

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, or more to taste

¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper, or more to taste

3 romaine - washed, chopped, and chilled

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Place bread on a rimmed baking sheet.

Step 2

Whisk together oil, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper in a liquid measure. Pour mixture over the bread and toss with your hands until evenly coated. Spread bread mixture into a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown and toasted, yet slightly soft in the center, 15 to 18 minutes, tossing croutons a few times during baking. Remove from the oven and let cool completely while you prepare the salad.

Step 3

Place garlic, anchovies, and salt in a large salad serving bowl; press the mixture with a fork until a paste forms. Stir in egg yolk, lemon juice, Dijon, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. Slowly whisk in olive oil until all is incorporated and mixture is well blended and smooth. Stir in 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Remove about 1/4 cup of dressing and set aside for another use.

Step 4

When ready to serve, add lettuce and 1/2 of the croutons to the bowl with the remaining dressing; toss until well coated. Reserve remaining croutons for another use.

Step 5

Sprinkle salad with additional Parmesan and pepper if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

406

Calories

31g

Fat

26g

Carbs

Protein

Complement

The salad features crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, savory Parmesan cheese, and crunchy homemade croutons. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying and delicious salad that is perfect as a starter or as a main course. The homemade croutons add an extra dimension to the salad, providing a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor that elevates the dish to a whole new level. Whether you're looking for a light and refreshing meal or a side dish to complement your main course, the Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons is a timeless option that is sure to please the palate.