Classic Caesar Salad Recipe
Crisp romaine, Parmesan, croutons, and a creamy anchovy-garlic dressing
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
A real Caesar salad is nothing like the bagged version — crisp hearts of romaine dressed in a creamy, punchy dressing of anchovies, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan with crunchy homemade croutons.
The dressing gets its signature umami from anchovy and Worcestershire. If you think you don't like anchovies, you can't taste them — they dissolve into savory depth.
Make the croutons yourself — torn, never cut, for rustic edges that catch the dressing.
About This Recipe
"Classic Caesar Salad" is a Salads & Bowls recipe that brings romaine lettuce hearts, chopped, garlic, anchovy fillets, egg yolk and fresh lemon juice together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Easy and ready in about 25 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 4 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The Italian-American inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 heads romaine lettuce hearts, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic
- 4 fillets anchovy fillets
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 3 cups torn bread (croutons)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (croutons)
Instructions
- 1
Toss torn bread with olive oil and salt. Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes until golden.
- 2
Mash garlic and anchovies into a paste. Whisk in egg yolk, lemon, and mustard.
- 3
Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify.
- 4
Stir in half the Parmesan.
- 5
Toss romaine with dressing, croutons, and remaining Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Romaine lettuce hearts, chopped is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Oven work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Classic Caesar Salad" is a versatile Salads & Bowls dish that pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, buttered green beans, roasted potatoes and classic Italian-American sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Classic Caesar Salad stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating before sealing the container. Reheat gently until warmed through, adding a small splash of liquid if needed to restore the original texture.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Classic Caesar Salad?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 25 minutes. It serves 4 and is rated Easy.
How do I store leftover Classic Caesar Salad?
Store leftover Classic Caesar Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I make Classic Caesar Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Classic Caesar Salad in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
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