Sep 05 2026
RestaurantsVillaggio GrilleSmall Caesar Salad Recipe

Small Caesar Salad Recipe

Inspired by Villaggio Grille
Time20m
Serves1

Make Small Caesar Salad Recipe in just 20m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Salad

Method

Croutons

  1. 1

    Prep and toast croutons

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) or heat a skillet over medium. Toss the 1 cup bread cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/4 teaspoon salt until evenly coated. Spread in a single layer on a small baking sheet and bake 8–10 minutes, stirring once, until golden and crisp. Alternatively, cook in the skillet, stirring frequently, 5–7 minutes until toasted. Remove and cool.

Caesar dressing

  1. 2

    Make dressing

    Peel and finely mince the garlic clove (or grate). In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon anchovy paste and the minced garlic until smooth. While whisking, slowly drizzle in 2 tablespoons olive oil to emulsify. Whisk in 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan. Taste and season with up to 1 teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper (about 1 teaspoon) as needed. If dressing is too thick, thin with 1–2 teaspoons water or more lemon juice to reach desired consistency.

Salad assembly

  1. 3

    Assemble salad

    Wash and spin-dry the romaine lettuce, then roughly chop or tear into bite-sized pieces to equal about 4 cups. If using cherry tomatoes, halve them. Place the lettuce (and tomatoes if using) in a medium mixing bowl. Add about two-thirds of the dressing and toss gently to coat evenly. Add 3 tablespoons of the grated Parmesan and toss once more.

  2. 4

    Add croutons and finish

    Scatter the cooled croutons over the dressed salad. Top with the remaining tablespoon of grated Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with a lemon wedge at the side for optional extra brightness.

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