Introduction
The Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons and Parmesan Cheese is a timeless dish that beautifully balances crisp freshness, creamy richness, and savory depth of flavor. Known for its zesty, tangy dressing and crunchy texture, this salad has become a staple in kitchens and restaurants around the world.
What makes this Caesar Salad truly special is the homemade touch—from the crunchy, golden croutons toasted to perfection, to the freshly grated Parmesan that adds nutty, salty richness, and the creamy Caesar dressing that ties it all together. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of crisp romaine lettuce, garlicky croutons, and sharp, tangy cheese.
Originally created in the 1920s, the Caesar Salad has stood the test of time because of its versatility and universal appeal. It can shine as a refreshing appetizer, a satisfying side dish, or even a light main course when paired with grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak.
This version captures everything that makes the Caesar Salad a classic: fresh, bold flavors, crunchy textures, and a satisfying creaminess that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or making a quick weekday meal, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it takes a salad that many consider simple and elevates it into something truly special and unforgettable. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the contrast of textures and flavors—the cool, crisp romaine leaves paired with crunchy, garlicky croutons, the sharp bite of Parmesan cheese, and the creamy tang of the Caesar dressing.
What makes me love it even more is the homemade element. Crafting your own croutons from fresh bread makes all the difference—they’re golden, flavorful, and slightly chewy in the middle, unlike anything from a bag. Pair that with freshly grated Parmesan (instead of pre-shredded) and you can immediately taste the difference in richness and depth.
This recipe is also one of my favorites because it’s incredibly versatile and reliable. I can serve it as a light appetizer, a refreshing side dish, or even turn it into a full meal by topping it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon. It always adapts to the occasion.
Most of all, I love how this dish never fails to please a crowd. Whether I’m making it for family dinners, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying a quick lunch, everyone seems to appreciate its fresh, bold flavors. It’s a salad that feels both comforting and elegant, and that balance is why I always come back to it.
Why This is a Must-Try Dish
The Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons and Parmesan Cheese is a must-try dish because it transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy golden croutons, and freshly grated Parmesan come together with a tangy, creamy Caesar dressing to create a salad that is refreshing, satisfying, and full of flavor.
It’s a must-try because of its balance of textures and flavors—the crunch of the lettuce, the creaminess of the dressing, the savoriness of Parmesan, and the toasty bite of homemade croutons. Each component works in harmony, making every bite irresistible.
This dish is also incredibly versatile. It can be served as a light starter, a side dish that pairs perfectly with pasta or grilled meats, or even upgraded into a hearty main course with the addition of chicken, shrimp, or salmon. Its adaptability makes it a recipe worth adding to your collection.
Another reason this Caesar Salad is a must-try is that making it at home allows you to control the freshness and quality of every ingredient. Homemade croutons are far more flavorful than store-bought, and freshly grated Parmesan adds a richness that pre-packaged cheese simply can’t match.
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for croutons)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per Serving: ~320 kcal
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Cooking Method: No-cook (except croutons)
- Course: Salad / Appetizer / Side Dish
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 large head romaine lettuce (washed, dried, and torn into bite-size pieces)
- ½ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
For the Homemade Croutons
- 3 cups bread cubes (preferably day-old baguette or sourdough)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Caesar Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 2–3 tbsp water (to thin if needed)
Directions
Step 1: Make the Croutons
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, tossing halfway, until golden brown and crisp.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and grated Parmesan.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Add water 1 tbsp at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, add romaine lettuce.
- Drizzle with the Caesar dressing and toss gently to coat.
- Add croutons and shaved Parmesan.
- Toss again lightly or leave toppings on top for presentation.
Step-by-Step Summary
- Make crispy homemade croutons.
- Whisk together creamy Caesar dressing.
- Toss lettuce with dressing, croutons, and Parmesan.
How to Serve
Serve immediately while the croutons are still crunchy. Perfect as a starter to pasta, steak, or grilled chicken, or as a main dish with added protein like grilled shrimp or salmon.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.
- Make it traditional: Use anchovy fillets and egg yolk for authentic flavor.
- Bread choice: Sourdough or rustic Italian bread makes the best croutons.
- Extra crunch: Toss in toasted pine nuts or almonds.
Freezing and Storage
- Croutons: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Dressing: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Assembled salad: Best enjoyed immediately; once dressed, lettuce will wilt within a few hours.
Special Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet (for croutons)
- Large salad bowl
- Whisk
- Garlic press (optional)
Conclusion
This Classic Caesar Salad is crisp, creamy, and full of flavor. The combination of fresh romaine, tangy dressing, crunchy croutons, and salty Parmesan makes it a timeless favorite for any meal.
Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons and Parmesan Cheese
Description
The Caesar salad is one of the most famous salads in the world — simple yet elegant, fresh yet indulgent. This recipe combines crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy golden croutons, shaved Parmesan cheese, and a creamy, tangy Caesar dressing made from scratch. The balance of textures and flavors makes every bite refreshing and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Salad
For the Homemade Croutons
For the Caesar Dressing
Instructions
-
Step 1: Make the Croutons: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.Bake for 8–10 minutes, tossing halfway, until golden brown and crisp.
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Step 2: Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper. Add water 1 tbsp at a time until desired consistency is reached.
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Step 3: Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, add romaine lettuce. Drizzle with the Caesar dressing and toss gently to coat. Add croutons and shaved Parmesan. Toss again lightly or leave toppings on top for presentation.
Note
Short Note About This Recipe
A fresh, crunchy, and creamy salad classic — perfect as a side or light main, made even better with homemade croutons and a rich Caesar dressing.