Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Creamy Caesar Salad is the perfect balance of crisp romaine lettuce, rich creamy dressing, and the savory crunch of homemade croutons. This classic salad is both satisfying and flavorful, with a perfect combination of tangy, garlicky, and cheesy goodness. It’s easy to prepare and makes a delicious side dish or a meal on its own when topped with grilled chicken or shrimp.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dressing:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons anchovy paste (or 2 anchovy fillets, finely chopped)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup olive oil

For the Salad:

1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup homemade or store-bought croutons (optional: toasted garlic bread pieces)

directions

Make the Dressing:
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, anchovy paste (or chopped anchovies), salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to create a creamy, well-blended dressing.
Prepare the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce. Drizzle the dressing over the lettuce and toss gently to coat the leaves evenly.
Top the Salad:
Sprinkle the salad with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and croutons. Toss again to combine, or serve with extra cheese and croutons on top.
Serve:
Serve immediately, or refrigerate the dressing separately if making ahead. This salad is best enjoyed fresh!

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make this a more filling meal.
For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the dressing.
Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra citrusy freshness.
For a tangy twist, substitute balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar for the lemon juice.
Swap the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper, bolder flavor.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For the salad, it’s best to serve immediately as the lettuce can wilt over time when dressed. If storing, keep the dressing separate and dress the salad just before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the dressing without anchovies?
Yes, if you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the anchovies and use extra garlic or a bit of capers for a similar briny flavor.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing ahead and store it in the fridge. However, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting.

Can I use store-bought croutons?
Absolutely! Store-bought croutons are a convenient option, but homemade croutons add an extra crunch and flavor to the salad.

What’s the best lettuce to use for Caesar salad?
Romaine lettuce is the traditional choice for Caesar salad because of its crisp texture and mild flavor, which pairs well with the creamy dressing.

Conclusion

Homemade Creamy Caesar Salad is a classic dish that’s both simple and delicious. With its rich, flavorful dressing and crisp lettuce, it’s perfect for any meal. Whether as a side dish or topped with protein for a full meal, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser. Make it fresh, and you’ll experience the best Caesar salad you’ve ever had!