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Crisp romaine meets bold, garlicky dressing in this restaurant classic that's been the gold standard of salads since the 1920s. Our version respects tradition with anchovy paste for depth, fresh lemon juice for brightness, and house-made croutons that add the perfect crunch. Topped with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and optional soft-boiled eggs, this isn't just a side salad - it's a meal worthy of Caesar himself.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). For croutons, toss bread cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, and salt. Spread on baking sheet and bake 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy.
For soft-boiled eggs (if using), bring water to boil, gently add eggs, cook exactly
5 minutes, then transfer to ice water - perfect runny yolks every time!
Make dressing by mashing garlic and anchovies into a paste with the side of a knife.
In a large bowl, whisk together the garlic-anchovy paste, lemon juice, Dijon, and mayonnaise until smooth.
Whisk in grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, then slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to create a smooth emulsion.
Season with black pepper - the anchovies and cheese provide plenty of salt!
Add chopped romaine to the bowl and toss with just enough dressing to coat every leaf generously.
Top with warm croutons, halved soft-boiled eggs if using, and extra grated cheese.
Serve immediately with additional black pepper - this salad waits for no one!
Storage & Make-Ahead
Storage Advice: Dressing keeps for up to 1 week refrigerated. Wash and store lettuce separately. Croutons stay crispy in airtight container for 3 days.
Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips: Dressing can be made ahead and stored. Assemble salad just before serving to maintain crispness. Croutons freeze well for up to 1 month.
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Nutritional & Dietary Information
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 320
Protein: 12g
Fat: 28g (Saturated: 6g)
Carbohydrates: 12g (Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 3g)
Vitamin A: 85% DV
Vitamin C: 45% DV
Calcium: 15% DV
Iron: 8% DV
Allergen Information: Contains gluten (croutons), dairy (cheese), eggs, fish (anchovies)
Dietary Information: Not suitable for gluten-free (due to croutons), dairy-free, or fish-free diets. Contains multiple allergens.
Serving & Variations
Serving Suggestions: Serve in large, chilled bowls with additional cheese and pepper on the side. Present the soft-boiled eggs halved to show the golden yolk.
Wine or Drink Pairing: Pair with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc from Loire Valley or Pinot Grigio from Alto Adige. Light, acidic wines complement the rich dressing perfectly.
Possible Recipe Variations: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein, bacon bits for smokiness, or avocado for creaminess. Kale Caesar is a trendy variation.
Additional Notes: Fresh lemon juice is crucial - bottled just doesn't compare. The anchovy paste adds umami depth without being fishy when properly balanced.
Disclosure: This recipe may contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a commission if you click on a link and make a purchase at no extra cost to you. This applies to featured Amazon products or any other Beestrot's partners. Thank you for your support! Jean Louis.
Bottled dressing is full of things you would want to avoid, first one being sugar, not even talking about the rest… Bravo and thank you for your comment.
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love that its from scratch. gonna try this weekend
se ve rica pero no me gustan las anchoas… quizás las puedo omitir?
Gracias Carmen, por supuesto que puedes, pero ¿podría insistir en que lo pruebes? Porque realmente marca la diferencia sin resultar excesivo. 💖
been looking for a legit caesar recipe. this is it
finally a caesar that tastes like it should. the anchovy paste is key, dont skip it even if you think you hate anchovies
Thanks Patrick, you’re right, anchovies are bringing the extra delicate taste on top of everything, my choice! 💖
made this for a dinner party and everyone wanted the recipe. the soft boiled eggs were a hit
Buenísima! Los crutones caseros quedan super crujientes. Ya la hice como 4 veces este mes jaja
restaurant quality 🥗
J’avais jamais fait ma propre sauce César et franchement c’est pas compliqué. Les croûtons maison ça change tout aussi.
Exact, les croûtons ne doivent pas être sec ou trop huileux et surtout frais! Merci pour vôtre commentaire.
Perfecta! La salsa casera no tiene comparación. Mi esposa dice que es mejor que la del restaurante donde siempre vamos.
the homemade dressing is SO much better than bottled. will never go back. the soft boiled egg on top is genius
Bottled dressing is full of things you would want to avoid, first one being sugar, not even talking about the rest… Bravo and thank you for your comment.
Enfin une vraie César! Les anchois ça fait peur à certains mais c’est ça le secret. J’ai rajouté du poulet grillé, un régal.
Excellente idée! 👏💖