Caesar Salad

Classic Caesar Salad: A Taste Discovery Story

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction

The Caesar salad is more than just a culinary dish; it is a story of creativity and adaptation, crafted around 1924 by an Italian-American restaurateur, Caesar Cardini. This salad was invented out of necessity during a time of crisis when Cardini found himself short on resources after an Independence Day celebration. Thus, in Tijuana, Mexico, he created a salad that quickly became a customer favorite. Over time, the recipe has evolved, but its essence remains the same: a perfect combination of fresh ingredients and a savory dressing.

In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve an authentic Caesar Salad, with crispy croutons, a delicious dressing, and flavors that will remind you of festive meals.

Ingredients

- 1 head of romaine lettuce (choose firm, crispy leaves)
- 2-3 green onions (optional, but adds a fresh note)
- 1-2 egg yolks (or a boiled egg for 1 minute)
- 100 ml extra virgin olive oil (for an intense flavor)
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (depending on how tangy you prefer the salad)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for an unmistakable umami)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- 8 large garlic cloves (crushed for flavor)
- 75 g grated Parmesan (or more if you love cheese)
- Croutons (preferably lightly toasted in the oven)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the croutons
Start by preparing the croutons. Cut the bread into cubes and place them on a baking tray. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with crushed garlic. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy. These croutons will add a delicious texture to the salad.

Step 2: Preparing the dressing
In a small bowl, mix the egg yolks (or boiled egg) with lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce. Gradually add the olive oil while continuously whisking to emulsify the dressing. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy consistency. Don't forget to add freshly ground pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assembling the salad
Wash the romaine lettuce leaves and tear them by hand into large pieces – this is an important detail, as whole leaves better retain texture and flavor. Add the finely chopped green onions.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the lettuce leaves with the prepared dressing. Toss well so that each leaf is coated with the dressing. Add the croutons and grated Parmesan, gently mixing to avoid crushing the ingredients.

Step 5: Serving
Serve the salad immediately on individual plates or in a large bowl. It is a salad that is best enjoyed fresh, so do not hesitate to prepare it just before serving. A personal touch: if you want to add a hint of flavor, sprinkle a few thin slices of lemon on top.

Useful tips

1. The egg: If you want to avoid raw egg, opt for a boiled egg for 1 minute. This will add a creamy texture while eliminating the risks associated with consuming raw eggs.
2. The croutons: Use high-quality bread for croutons, such as a baguette or rye bread, for added flavor.
3. Vegetarian option: You can replace Parmesan with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to maintain the savory taste without using animal products.
4. Delicious combinations: This salad pairs excellently with a glass of dry white wine or a fresh cocktail based on gin and tonic.

Nutritional benefits

The Caesar salad offers a healthy combination of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the romaine lettuce leaves, which are rich in vitamin K, vitamin A, and folic acid. Extra virgin olive oil provides healthy fats beneficial for the heart, while Parmesan offers protein and calcium.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I add meat to the salad?
Yes, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn the salad into a complete meal.

2. How can I keep the salad fresh for the next day?
If you have leftovers, store the dressing separately to avoid wilting the lettuce leaves.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
Try adding avocado, cherry tomatoes, or olives for an extra burst of flavor!

In conclusion, the classic Caesar salad is a simple yet impressive recipe that can be adapted to individual preferences. Enjoy every bite and savor the flavors that tell a story of tradition and innovation in every serving!