Caesar Salad Recipe

Wash the romaine thoroughly under cold water. Spin or pat dry until very dry. Chop or tear the leaves into bite-size pieces and place them in a large salad bowl.

Add about 3/4 cup of the grated Parmesan to the bowl and toss lightly to begin integrating cheese with the leaves.

When ready to serve, add croutons to the top of the dressed salad and sprinkle remaining Parmesan over the top. Serve with lemon wedges on the side if desired.

Prepare anchovy-garlic paste

On a small cutting board, sprinkle a pinch of salt on the minced anchovies and garlic. Use the flat side of a chef's knife to press and smear them together into a smooth paste (about 30 seconds). This mellows flavors and disperses them evenly in the dressing.

Whisk base

In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce and fresh lemon juice. Whisk until smooth.

Combine flavors

Add the anchovy-garlic paste to the bowl along with the grated Parmesan, salt and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk to incorporate.

Emulsify

While whisking vigorously, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil until the dressing becomes glossy and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust lemon, salt or pepper as needed.

Chill (optional)

If you have time, refrigerate the dressing in a sealed container for 15–30 minutes to let flavors meld. Bring back to room temperature before using if chilled longer.

Prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder and salt until evenly coated.

Bake

Spread the cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 8–12 minutes, tossing once halfway through, until golden and crisp. Cool completely before using.

Add 3–4 tablespoons of dressing to the salad bowl with the romaine and Parmesan. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat leaves—add more dressing a tablespoon at a time if you prefer a wetter salad. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Plate individual servings, top with croutons, a final sprinkle of Parmesan and a crack of black pepper. Serve immediately.