Classic Ceasar Salad with Homemade Dressing

If you’re craving a fresh, crisp salad that bursts with flavor and is incredibly satisfying, look no further than this Classic Ceasar Salad with Homemade Dressing. This timeless recipe brings together crunchy romaine lettuce, savory croutons, and a creamy, tangy dressing made from scratch. It’s easy to whip up anytime—whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, a light dinner, or impressing guests at your next gathering. With every crunchy bite and rich drizzle of homemade dressing, this salad elevates the ordinary into something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless freshness: The combination of crisp romaine and a zesty dressing brightens up any meal instantly.
• Homemade dressing magic: Making the dressing yourself means vibrant, bold flavors free from preservatives.
• Perfect balance: Crunchy croutons and Parmesan cheese add layers of texture and depth.
• Versatility at its best: Great as a side dish, a light main course, or part of a crowd-pleasing buffet.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak for dietary preferences or to add your own signature touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Classic Ceasar Salad with Homemade Dressing is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—lettuce for crunch, cheese for richness, and fresh elements for that bright, tangy flavor.

• Romaine lettuce: Crisp and refreshing, the leafy base that holds everything together.
• Homemade dressing components: Anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, egg yolk, olive oil, and Parmesan all combine to create a creamy, flavorful dressing.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought, they add an irresistible crunch to the salad.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for a salty, nutty finish.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and complements the flavors beautifully.

Variations for Classic Ceasar Salad with Homemade Dressing

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted according to what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Try these variations to make it your own!

• Grilled chicken addition: Turn it into a heartier meal with some smoky grilled chicken strips.
• Vegetarian dressing: Omit anchovies and replace Worcestershire sauce with a vegetarian alternative for a meat-free version.
• Keto-friendly: Use low-carb crouton substitutes like toasted nuts or cheese crisps.
• Vegan twist: Swap egg yolk for vegan mayo and Parmesan for nutritional yeast to satisfy plant-based diets.
• Extra zing: Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika to the dressing for a spicy flair.

How to Make Classic Ceasar Salad with Homemade Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by finely mincing anchovies and garlic to build a deep umami base. Whisk together with fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and an egg yolk to bind everything smoothly. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking constantly until the mixture thickens into a rich and creamy dressing. Finish by stirring in freshly grated Parmesan.

Step 2: Prepare the Lettuce

Rinse romaine lettuce leaves thoroughly and dry them completely using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces to maximize freshness and ensure every bite gets coated with dressing.

Step 3: Make or Toast Croutons

Cube day-old bread into small pieces, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt, then toast them in a skillet or oven until golden brown and crisp. These croutons add irresistible crunch and soak up the dressing beautifully.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

In a large bowl, toss the lettuce with the homemade dressing so each leaf is evenly coated. Add the croutons and give everything a gentle mix to ensure balanced flavor and texture throughout.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and freshly ground pepper over the salad before serving. For an elegant touch, add a few anchovy fillets on top or a lemon wedge on the side.

Pro Tips for Making Classic Ceasar Salad with Homemade Dressing

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and quality olive oil elevate the dressing’s flavor dramatically.
• Egg yolk alternatives: For safety, use pasteurized egg yolks or substitute with mayonnaise in the dressing.
• Dry lettuce well: Any water left on the greens will water down the dressing and soggy the salad.
• Make croutons the day before: Store them in an airtight container to keep crispness for the salad.
• Season gradually: Taste often while preparing the dressing to achieve the perfect balance of tang, salt, and umami.

How to Serve Classic Ceasar Salad with Homemade Dressing

Garnishes

Add a final flourish with freshly shaved Parmesan, lemon zest, or even crispy bacon bits to complement the creamy dressing and crunchy lettuce perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair this salad with grilled chicken, seafood like shrimp or salmon, or serve alongside a warm, crusty baguette to round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in individual bowls for a casual feel or on a large platter layered with extra Parmesan and herb sprigs for a stylish, shareable centerpiece at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover salad separate from the dressing to prevent wilting. Store lettuce in an airtight container and dressing in a small jar for up to two days for maximum freshness.

Freezing

Freezing salad is not recommended as the lettuce becomes soggy upon thawing; however, you can freeze the dressing in an airtight container for up to one month.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. If adding proteins, warm them separately before combining.

FAQs

Can I make the Classic Ceasar Salad with Homemade Dressing vegan?

Yes! Use vegan mayonnaise instead of egg yolk and nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives instead of Parmesan, and omit anchovies for a delicious vegan version.

Is it safe to use raw egg in the dressing?

Raw egg yolk adds creaminess, but if you’re concerned, use pasteurized eggs or substitute with mayonnaise to maintain safety without compromising texture.

What kind of bread is best for making croutons?

A day-old baguette or sourdough bread works wonderfully because it’s sturdy and toasts up crispy without becoming mushy.

Can I prepare the salad in advance?

It’s best to prepare the dressing and croutons ahead of time but toss the lettuce with the dressing just before serving to keep it crisp and fresh.

What can I add to make this salad more filling?

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or boiled eggs to boost the protein content, turning the salad into a complete and satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Ceasar Salad with Homemade Dressing is a timeless favorite that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this recipe offers that perfect blend of fresh, creamy, and crunchy elements that everyone will love. Give it a try—you’re going to want to make this your go-to salad!

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