Ingredients

For the Salad:

• Romano or Iceberg lettuce: 1 head (approximately 200-250 g)
• Parmesan cheese: 70 g (shaved or grated)
• Chicken fillet: 1 piece (optional, about 150-200 g)
• Bread: 100 g (for homemade croutons)
• Cherry tomatoes: 6-8 pieces (optional)

For the Caesar Dressing:

• Egg yolk: 1 piece
• Dijon mustard: 0.5 tsp
• Apple cider vinegar: 1 tbsp
• Anchovies: 2 pieces (finely chopped)
• Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
• Olive oil: 60-100 ml (adjust for desired thickness)

Instructions (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

1. Wash and chop the lettuce: Begin by washing the Romano or iceberg lettuce thoroughly under cold running water. Dry the leaves using a salad spinner or pat them dry with a clean towel. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Lettuce is the base of the Caesar salad, and its crisp texture adds freshness to the dish.
2. Prepare the chicken (optional): If using chicken, season the fillet with salt, pepper, and a touch of olive oil. Grill or pan-fry the chicken fillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips. This addition makes the salad more filling and suitable as a main course.
3. Make the croutons: Cut the 100 g of bread (such as a baguette or ciabatta) into small cubes. Toss them with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Homemade croutons add a crunchy texture to the salad and are far superior to store-bought versions.
4. Slice the cherry tomatoes (optional): If using cherry tomatoes, slice them in half. While not a traditional Caesar salad ingredient, cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and sweetness to the dish, balancing the savory elements.

Step 2: Make the Caesar Dressing

1. Prepare the yolk base: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and 0.5 teaspoon of Dijon mustard until well combined. The yolk adds creaminess and richness to the dressing, while the mustard brings a slight tang and helps emulsify the sauce.
2. Add the vinegar: Slowly add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the yolk mixture, whisking constantly. The vinegar provides the acidic balance needed to cut through the richness of the dressing.
3. Add the anchovies and garlic: Finely chop 2 anchovy fillets and mince 2 garlic cloves. Stir these into the dressing. Anchovies add a signature umami flavor to Caesar dressing, while garlic gives it a robust, savory kick.
4. Incorporate the olive oil: Gradually drizzle in the 60-100 ml of olive oil while whisking continuously. The more oil you add, the thicker the dressing will become. Aim for a smooth, creamy consistency. If the dressing becomes too thick, you can add a small splash of water to thin it out.
5. Season the dressing: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The anchovies are naturally salty, so be cautious when adding extra salt.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Combine the ingredients: In a large salad bowl, toss the chopped lettuce with a few tablespoons of the Caesar dressing, ensuring the lettuce is well-coated but not drenched.
2. Add the toppings: Top the salad with the sliced chicken (if using), homemade croutons, and halved cherry tomatoes.
3. Shave Parmesan cheese: Use a vegetable peeler or a fine grater to shave or grate the Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the cheese generously over the top of the salad.
4. Finish with dressing: Drizzle more Caesar dressing over the salad as needed. You can also serve extra dressing on the side for those who like their salad with more sauce.

Step 4: Serve

1. Serve immediately: Caesar salad is best served fresh, while the lettuce is crisp and the croutons are still crunchy. You can serve it as a side dish or as a main course when topped with chicken.

Cooking Tips

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan, homemade croutons, and crisp lettuce will elevate the salad’s overall flavor and texture.
• Adjust the dressing: If you find the dressing too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water or lemon juice to thin it out. If you prefer a tangier dressing, you can add more vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
• Substitute anchovies: If you’re not a fan of anchovies, you can omit them or replace them with a few drops of Worcestershire sauce for a similar umami flavor.
• Grill the chicken: For added flavor, grill the chicken with a bit of garlic and lemon zest, or marinate it in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before grilling.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The croutons can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for several days.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover salad components separately in the refrigerator. Lettuce and croutons should be kept dry, while the dressing can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you’ve assembled the salad but have leftovers, it’s best to consume it within a day as the lettuce and croutons can become soggy.
• Do not freeze: Caesar salad does not freeze well, as the lettuce will wilt and the dressing may separate when thawed.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 20 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fat: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Calcium: 20% DV
• Iron: 8% DV

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?
   • Yes, you can use store-bought Caesar dressing if you’re short on time. However, homemade dressing brings a fresh, rich flavor that’s hard to beat.
2. Is Caesar salad healthy?
   • Caesar salad can be a nutritious choice, especially if made with fresh ingredients. However, the dressing is typically high in fat due to the olive oil and egg yolk, so portion control is key. For a lighter version, use less dressing or opt for a yogurt-based dressing.
3. Can I use other types of lettuce?
   • Yes, while Romaine or iceberg lettuce is traditional, you can experiment with other greens like spinach, arugula, or mixed greens.
4. Can I make this salad without raw eggs?
   • Yes, if you prefer not to use raw egg yolk, you can substitute it with a tablespoon of mayonnaise, which will give the dressing a similar creamy texture.
5. How can I make a vegetarian version?
   • To make the salad vegetarian, omit the anchovies and substitute with a teaspoon of capers or a few drops of Worcestershire sauce (ensure it’s vegetarian).

Conclusion

Caesar salad is a timeless classic that’s both versatile and satisfying. With its creamy, tangy dressing and crisp lettuce, this recipe can be adapted to suit different preferences, from adding grilled chicken for a more filling meal to experimenting with different cheeses and toppings. Homemade croutons and dressing elevate the dish, making it far superior to any pre-packaged version. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main course, this Caesar salad recipe is sure to impress and become a favorite at your table. Enjoy this fresh, delicious salad that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor!