Romaine Caesar Salad is a classic and popular salad known for its refreshing flavors and creamy dressing. Crisp romaine lettuce leaves are paired with a tangy and savory Caesar dressing, topped with shredded Parmesan cheese and crunchy croutons. This salad is a favorite among salad enthusiasts and is often served as a side dish or as a main course with added protein.

The origins of the Caesar salad can be traced back to Tijuana, Mexico, in the 1920s. The credit for its creation is often given to Caesar Cardini, an Italian-American restaurateur who operated a restaurant in Tijuana. Legend has it that the salad was invented by Cardini on the Fourth of July weekend in 1924 when he needed to create a dish using the limited ingredients available in his kitchen.

During a busy weekend, Cardini’s restaurant was running low on supplies, but he managed to put together a simple yet flavorful salad using romaine lettuce, garlic, croutons, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. The salad was tossed tableside to add a touch of theater to the dining experience.

The salad gained popularity among Hollywood celebrities and tourists who visited Cardini’s restaurant. It soon became an international sensation and a staple on menus worldwide. Over time, variations of the Caesar salad emerged, but the key elements of crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy toppings remained constant.

The dressing is an essential component of the Romaine Caesar Salad. The rich and creamy dressing is traditionally made with ingredients such as anchovies, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and egg yolks blended with olive oil and lemon juice. These ingredients combine to create a tangy, savory, and slightly briny flavor profile that complements the freshness of the romaine lettuce.

Romaine Caesar Salad continues to be a popular choice in restaurants and homes today. Its simplicity, balance of flavors, and versatility make it a go-to salad for various occasions. It is often enjoyed as a side dish with grilled meats or as a standalone meal with the addition of protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp.

Whether served at a fancy restaurant or enjoyed as a quick and satisfying meal at home, Romaine Caesar Salad remains a beloved classic that celebrates the harmony of fresh ingredients and a flavorful dressing.

PREP: 10 MIN. + CHILLING

MAKES: 8 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 hard-cooked eggs
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 anchovy fillet
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup olive oil
• 1 bunch romaine, torn
• 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup Caesar salad croutons

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Slice eggs in half; remove yolks. Refrigerate whites for another use.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the lemon juice, vinegar, anchovy, mustard, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, salt, and egg yolks. Cover and process until blended.
3. While processing, gradually add the olive oil in a steady stream.
4. Cover the dressing and refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
5. In a salad bowl, combine the torn romaine, shredded Parmesan cheese, and croutons.
6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
7. Toss the salad to coat the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
8. Serve immediately.

CHICKEN CAESER SALAD VARIATION:

• Grill or broil 8 chicken breast halves seasoned with salt and pepper.
• Cut each chicken breast half into strips.
• Top each individual salad serving with a cooked chicken breast half.

Enjoy your refreshing and flavorful Romaine Caesar Salad!