Caesar Salad Recipe
Make Caesar Salad Recipe in just 20m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Salad
Caesar dressing
Optional garnish/protein
Method
Salad
- 1
Prepare lettuce
Wash the romaine thoroughly, spin or pat dry, then tear into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large mixing bowl and chill briefly while you make the dressing.
- 2
Add croutons and cheese
When ready to serve, add 1.5 cups croutons and 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan to the lettuce. Hold off on tossing until dressing is combined.
- 3
Add optional protein
If using grilled chicken, slice the cooked breast thinly and arrange on top of the assembled salad after tossing with dressing.
Caesar dressing
- 4
Mince aromatics
Finely mince the garlic clove and the anchovy fillets (if using). Mashing them into a paste with the side of a knife helps them blend smoothly into the dressing.
- 5
Emulsify dressing
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, the minced garlic and anchovy paste. Whisk vigorously until smooth and slightly thickened.
- 6
Season dressing
Taste and season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Adjust acidity with more lemon juice (1/2 teaspoon at a time) or thin with a teaspoon of water if too thick.
- 7
Chill briefly
Let the dressing sit 5 minutes at room temperature for flavors to meld (anchovies and garlic will mellow).
Assemble and serve
- 8
Pour about half the dressing over the prepared romaine, croutons, and grated Parmesan. Toss gently but thoroughly with tongs or salad servers until leaves are evenly coated. Add more dressing to taste (typically 2–4 tablespoons more).
- 9
Plate the salad, sprinkle extra Parmesan shavings if desired, and arrange sliced grilled chicken on top if using. Finish with a few grinds of black pepper and serve immediately so the croutons stay crisp.
