Ultimate Fresh Caesar Salad Recipe with Homemade Dressing
Discover the rich flavors of our Ultimate Fresh Caesar Salad, featuring homemade dressing with fresh anchovies, lemon, and a mix of quality oils. Perfectly chilled, crisp romaine is garnished with hand-grated Parmesan and homemade croutons for a refreshing yet hearty meal.
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Prep Time 30 minutesminutes
Cook Time 0 minutesminutes
Servings 12
Author N. J. Sorensen, RDN
Ingredients
3eachlarge egg yolksfresh
1tablespoonDijon mustard
2clovesgarlicminced
2ouncesanchoviesfinely minced
1teaspoonWorcestershire sauceoptional
½teaspoonmustard powderoptional
¾cupextra-virgin olive oil
¾cupvegetable oil
6tablespoonsred wine vinegar
2tablespoonslemon juicefreshly squeezed
16eachanchovy filletsfor garnish
1 ¼cupsParmesan cheesefreshly grated
2teaspoonswhite pepper
4eachheads romaine lettuceleaves separated, washed, and chilled
½cuphomemade croutons
Instructions
Prepare the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, whisk egg yolks for about 5 minutes until smooth.
Add Dijon mustard, minced garlic, minced anchovies, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and mustard powder. Mix until well blended.
With the mixer on medium speed, slowly drizzle in the olive and vegetable oils until the mixture is fully incorporated and has thickened, ensuring a stable emulsion.
Stir in red wine vinegar and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
Fold in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and white pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Chill the Dressing:
Cover and refrigerate the dressing for at least 10 minutes to meld flavors and chill.
Prepare the Lettuce:
Tear the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces by hand. Place in a large salad bowl and chill in the refrigerator.
Assemble the Salad:
Remove the chilled dressing from the refrigerator. Drizzle 8 ounces of the dressing over the chilled romaine leaves.
Gently toss the salad to ensure all leaves are evenly coated with the dressing.
Serve:
Portion the salad onto individual plates.
Top each serving with additional grated Parmesan cheese, homemade croutons, and two anchovy fillets.
Optionally, sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper and a few parsley or basil leaves for added color and freshness.
Notes
• Adjust the dressing quantity and salad portion according to your preference.• For added protein, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.