Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet. In a small bowl whisk together 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp freshly ground pepper. Drizzle the oil mixture over the bread cubes and toss thoroughly to coat evenly. Spread cubes in a single layer and bake 10–12 minutes, stirring once halfway, until golden brown and crisp. Remove from oven and let cool.

Caesar dressing (classic)

Prepare base

If using egg yolks: place 2 yolks in a medium bowl. If substituting mayonnaise, place 2 tbsp mayo in the bowl. Add the minced garlic, minced anchovy fillets (or 1 tsp anchovy paste), Dijon mustard, lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until combined.

Emulsify

While whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in the 6 tbsp neutral oil in a thin, steady stream to create an emulsion. Once thickened, whisk in 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil for flavor. Stir in 1 tbsp finely grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Taste and season with 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper, adjusting lemon or salt to preference. If dressing is too thick, whisk in 1–2 tsp warm water to loosen to desired consistency.

Chill briefly

Cover and refrigerate the dressing 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld while you finish the salad (or up to 24 hours).

Salad assembly

Rinse and dry the romaine hearts thoroughly (use a salad spinner or pat dry). Chop or tear into bite-sized pieces and place in a large chilled mixing bowl.

Add about 3/4 of the shaved Parmigiano Reggiano to the bowl (reserve the rest for garnish) and 1 to 1 1/2 cups of the house-made croutons, reserving some croutons for topping.

Add 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the Caesar dressing to the lettuce (start with less — you can always add more). Using tongs, toss the lettuce vigorously but gently until every leaf is lightly and evenly coated. Taste and add more dressing if desired.

Transfer the dressed romaine to a serving bowl or plates. Top with the remaining shaved Parmigiano Reggiano and reserved croutons. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side if using.