Panko Caesar Salad Recipe

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

In a medium bowl, toss 2 cups panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until evenly moistened.

Spread the panko mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 8–10 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until golden brown and crisp. Watch carefully in the last few minutes to prevent burning.

Remove from oven and let cool on the sheet. They will crisp further as they cool.

In a medium bowl or a jar, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise and 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt until smooth.

Add 2 minced anchovy fillets (or anchovy paste), 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Whisk to combine.

Stir in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan. Slowly whisk in 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil to emulsify the dressing. Taste and season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Adjust lemon, salt or anchovy to taste.

If you prefer a thinner dressing, whisk in 1–2 tablespoons of cold water until desired consistency is reached. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld (up to 24 hours).

Make sure Romaine lettuce (3 cups torn hearts and optional 2 cups baby leaves) is well chilled and very dry. Pat with paper towels or use a salad spinner to remove excess water.

In a large bowl, add the lettuce. Add about 3/4 of the prepared dressing (reserve some for guests or extra serving) and toss gently but thoroughly so leaves are evenly coated. Add more dressing if desired, a tablespoon at a time.

Add the cooled panko croutons and toss once to distribute them without turning them to crumbs.

Scatter 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan over the top, finish with a crack of fresh black pepper (about 1/4 teaspoon), and taste for seasoning. Add reserved dressing to serve alongside if desired.

Serve immediately so croutons remain crisp.