Caesar Salad

When it comes to quick and easy recipes, it doesn't get much quicker or easier than this homemade Caesar salad recipe. From the crunchy croutons to the tangy homemade Caesar dressing, this recipe is exactly what you need to add some vibrancy and freshness to your next meal in only 15 minutes.

This recipe is going to become a favorite whether you are looking for a simple side salad or a customizable version that you can build into a hearty meal. With some kitchen staples and about 20 minutes of your time, you can create your own version of this authentic Caesar salad.

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

This homemade Caesar salad is the perfect side dish for just about any occasion.

First, its simplicity and speed of preparation make it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings, making it the perfect quick and easy recipe to have on hand.

Additionally, crafting the salad from scratch ensures maximum flavor and freshness, as each component, from the homemade croutons to the tangy dressing, is carefully made with quality ingredients.

However, what makes this recipe truly exceptional is its versatility and adaptability to personal tastes and dietary needs. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or have gluten sensitivities, this recipe can easily be customized to suit your preferences. Add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein, swap out traditional cheese for a dairy-free alternative, or toss in your favorite veggies for a unique twist.

Ingredients

French Baguette:

Due to its airy texture and crisp crust, a French baguette is ideal for making croutons. This results in a light yet crunchy crouton that perfectly complements Caesar salads. For vegan options, hearty whole-grain bread or sourdough works well, adding depth of flavor. Gluten-free alternatives like gluten-free bread or rice bread offer a suitable option for those with dietary restrictions.

While homemade croutons will add more flavor and freshness to your meal, you can also save some time and energy in the kitchen by picking up your favorite brand of croutons at the grocery store.

Crouton Dressing:

To give your homemade croutons a punch of flavor, add a simple crouton dressing made of garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper before cooking. You can also experiment with other seasoning ingredients, such as Italian seasoning, lemon zest, paprika, parmesan cheese, chili flakes, basil, oregano, or onion powder.

Caesar Dressing:

Unlike a traditional Caesar dressing, this simplistic version omits ingredients like anchovies and egg yolks.

Lettuce:

Typically, romaine lettuce is used to create a traditional Caesar salad. However, if you don't have access to romaine, you can also use kale, endive, butter lettuce, iceberg, or mixed greens to create your version.

Cheese:

A traditional Caesar salad uses high-quality parmesan cheese, but cheese like Pecorino Romano, Asiago, Grana Padano, Manchego, Gruyere, and blue are also excellent options. For a vegan or dairy-free alternative, tofu feta, vegan parmesan, cashew cheese, or nutritional yeast can be used.

How to Make a Caesar Salad

Croutons

Step One: 

Start by cutting your baguette into bite-sized cubes. Set them aside for later use.

Step Two: 

In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix them well to create a flavorful olive oil mixture.

Step Three: 

Toss the baguette cubes in the prepared olive oil mixture until they're evenly coated. Place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350F for about 10 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Dressing

Step One:

Combine all the Caesar Salad dressing ingredients in a bowl. Stir them together until well combined to create the delicious homemade Caesar dressing.

Assembling the Salad

Step One: 

Start by chopping your lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large salad bowl.

Step Two: 

Add the crispy croutons and freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of the lettuce.

Step Three: 

Drizzle the prepared Caesar dressing over the top of your salad and gently toss all the ingredients together until the salad is evenly coated.

Step Four: 

Serve your homemade Caesar salad as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite main courses, and enjoy!

Tips

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a heartier salad to make it a complete meal.
• Caesar salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve immediately after tossing it with the dressing to prevent the lettuce from wilting.
• While the classic Caesar salad is delicious on its own, try experimenting with additional ingredients like cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, or bacon for a twist on the traditional recipe.

What to Serve With Caesar Salad

Caesar salad pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes, making it a versatile side option for any meal. Its crispness and tangy dressing complement hearty proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon. Consider serving it alongside a creamy vegetable risotto or a flavorful pasta dish for a vegetarian-friendly option.

The salad's bold flavors also balance well with classic Italian mains like lasagna or chicken Parmesan. For a lighter meal, pair it with a simple soup or sandwich.

FAQs

Can I make homemade Caesar dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge?

Yes, you can! Homemade Caesar dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. Simply store it in an airtight container and give it a good shake or stir before using it to ensure it's well-mixed.

Is this a vegan Caesar salad? Vegetarian? Gluten-free?

This Caesar salad recipe most definitely caters to a vegetarian diet. However, to ensure that it is vegan or gluten-free, you will need to omit the French Baguette with a vegan or gluten-free bread. You can also omit the homemade croutons for store-bought ones that are certified vegan or gluten-free.

For how long can leftover Caesar salad be kept fresh?

Leftover Caesar salad can be kept fresh in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh as the lettuce may wilt over time. Store it in an airtight container and consume it as soon as possible for optimal taste and texture.

More Salad Recipes

If you are looking to incorporate more greens into your diet, salads are a great way to do just that. For some quick and easy salad recipes like this homemade Caesar salad recipe, then check out our collection of delicious salad recipes to inspire you this summer.

Salad Nicoise

Caprese Salad

Eggplant Salad

Avocado Salad