Crisp, creamy, and packed with flavor, this Caesar salad recipe is one I always go back to.
It starts with crunchy romaine lettuce, homemade garlic croutons, fresh parmesan cheese, and a light Caesar dressing you can whisk up in minutes.
As a chef and mom, I love this salad because it’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and goes with almost any meal, from grilled chicken to pasta night.
I first made this with my kids after a cooking class, and it quickly became a family favorite.
Once you try this version, store-bought Caesar salad won’t cut it anymore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These basic ingredients make a fresh and flavorful Caesar salad.
- Romaine lettuce – 1 large or 2 small heads. Buy whole heads for the best crunch.
- Parmesan cheese – Freshly shaved or shredded gives the best taste.
- French baguette – Used to make crispy, golden croutons.
- Garlic – For flavor in both the croutons and dressing.
- Extra virgin olive oil – A key ingredient in the dressing and for toasting the bread.
- Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy base to the dressing.
- Worcestershire sauce – Gives a bold, umami flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice – Brings balance and brightness.
- Red wine vinegar – Adds acidity for a clean finish.
- Sea salt and black pepper – Season to taste.
How to Make Homemade Croutons
Crunchy croutons take this salad to the next level. Here’s how I make them:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Slice a baguette in half lengthwise, then cut it into ¼-inch thick slices.
- Toss the bread slices with a mix of olive oil and minced garlic.
- Sprinkle grated parmesan over the coated bread.
- Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
These croutons stay fresh for days and work well with other salads, too.
How to Make Caesar Salad Dressing
This dressing is light, zesty, and super easy to whisk together.
- Add minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar to a bowl.
- Whisk constantly as you slowly drizzle in olive oil to create a smooth emulsion.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes before using, so the flavors blend.
I love how fresh this dressing tastes without anchovies or eggs, it’s lighter and still rich with flavor.
How to Keep Romaine Lettuce Crisp
Crisp lettuce makes the salad shine. Here’s how I keep mine fresh:
- Rinse in cold water to keep the leaves firm and crunchy.
- Use a salad spinner to dry thoroughly—this is a must for great texture.
- Store in a container or a zip bag with a paper towel inside to absorb moisture.
- Chill before serving for extra crunch.
Assembling the Caesar Salad
Once everything is prepped, putting it all together is quick and easy.
- Place chopped romaine in a large bowl.
- Top with cooled croutons and a generous sprinkle of parmesan.
- Drizzle the dressing over just before serving.
- Toss gently with tongs or two spoons until coated.
- Add extra cheese and black pepper if you like.
I usually shave my parmesan using a vegetable peeler for nice wide ribbons. It’s a simple trick that adds restaurant-style flair.
Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Days
Caesar salad is perfect for meal prep or planning ahead.
- Prep lettuce up to 3 days ahead. Wash, dry, and store it in a sealed bag with a paper towel.
- Bake croutons 1–2 days in advance. Keep them in an airtight container at room temp.
- Make dressing 3–4 days ahead. Store it in the fridge and whisk again before using.
These steps save so much time when you’re hosting or making weeknight dinners.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This classic salad pairs with everything, but here are my favorite ways to serve it:
- Add protein like grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp to make it a full meal.
- Serve alongside pasta dishes like baked ziti or lasagna.
- Make it vegetarian by using vegan Worcestershire sauce and skipping cheese.
- Try a creamy version by mixing in a spoonful of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing.
Once, I served this at a birthday dinner with pan-seared salmon, and it completely stole the show.
Why Homemade Caesar Salad Is Worth It
There’s something so satisfying about building a salad from scratch.
- Better texture and flavor than store-bought mixes.
- Fresh ingredients give it a clean, crisp bite.
- No unnecessary preservatives or additives.
- Easily customizable for your family’s taste.
This salad always impresses guests, and it’s one of the easiest dishes to prepare ahead. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday meal, it’s a trusted go-to in my kitchen.
Ready to try the best Caesar salad recipe? With simple steps, everyday ingredients, and that perfect balance of crunch and creaminess, this salad is a winner every time.
I’ve made it dozens of times for family and friends, and it never disappoints. Give it a try, you’ll see just how easy and delicious Caesar salad can be.
Classic Caesar Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice baguette into 1/4-inch thick pieces and place on a baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil with minced garlic. Drizzle over the bread slices and toss until coated.
- Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden and crisp. Let cool.
- In a bowl, whisk together garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar.
- While whisking, slowly add olive oil to create a smooth dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chop and rinse the romaine lettuce. Use a salad spinner to dry thoroughly. Place in a large serving bowl.
- Add cooled croutons and parmesan cheese. Drizzle with Caesar dressing just before serving.
- Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately with extra parmesan and pepper if desired.