Caesar Recipe

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl toss bread cubes with 2 Tbs olive oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder and 1/4 tsp salt until evenly coated.

Spread bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake 10–12 minutes, stirring once halfway, until golden and crisp. Let cool to room temperature.

If using raw egg yolks and you are concerned about safety, pasteurize by using coddled yolks: place whole eggs in boiling water for 1 minute, then cool and separate yolks. Alternatively use a store-bought pasteurized yolk or mayonnaise as substitute.

In a small food processor or blender, combine smashed garlic cloves and anchovy fillets (omit anchovies if not using). Pulse until garlic and anchovies form a coarse paste.

Add the 2 egg yolks, 3 Tbs lemon juice, 1 tsp Dijon mustard and 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce to the garlic-anchovy paste. Blend briefly to combine.

With the motor running (or while whisking vigorously by hand), stream in the oils: first the neutral oil, then the extra-virgin olive oil in a slow steady stream, to emulsify. Continue until dressing is thick and glossy, about 1–2 minutes.

Stop and stir in 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan, 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust acidity (add up to 1 Tbs more lemon juice) or salt as needed. Refrigerate if not using immediately; uses best within 3 days.

Trim any browned ends from the romaine hearts, then halve lengthwise if desired. Rinse under cold water, spin or pat dry thoroughly so leaves are crisp.

Tear or chop romaine into bite-size pieces or keep halves whole for a classic presentation. Place in a large chilled mixing bowl.

Add 3/4 cup shaved Parmesan and 1 cup toasted croutons to the bowl with romaine.

Add 4–6 Tbs of the house-made Caesar dressing (about 1.5–2 Tbs per serving) to the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat. Add more dressing to taste.

Divide onto plates, finish with additional shaved Parmesan and a grind of fresh black pepper. If anchovy option was requested, place 2–3 whole anchovy fillets on top of each serving (adjust quantity for the +$3.00 upgrade). Serve immediately.