Diane'S Caesar Salad
A flavorful Caesar salad featuring crunchy romaine, savory anchovies, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix garlic, salt, pepper, chopped anchovies, lemon juice, and egg.
- Add olive oil and whisk to combine.
- Add romaine lettuce and toss until coated.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and croutons, then toss again.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dressing, consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the mix. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the anchovies with capers for a salty kick. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. To balance the dressing's richness, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Caesar salad makes a fantastic starter or side dish, especially alongside grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, serve it with a warm Tuna Melt Croustades. Garnish with extra Parmesan and a lemon wedge for a bright finish. It's also perfect for a summer barbecue or picnic.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, keep the salad components separate. The dressing can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. Store the romaine lettuce and croutons in separate bags to prevent sogginess. When ready to eat, toss the lettuce with the dressing and add croutons just before serving for maximum crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Diane'S Caesar Salad contains roughly 757 calories, with 8g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (77% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2050mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a store-bought dressing instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use a store-bought Caesar dressing for convenience, but homemade offers a fresher taste and is customizable. Just ensure it matches your flavor preferences, and you can still add croutons and Parmesan for texture.
What can I substitute for the egg in the dressing?
If you want to avoid raw egg, use a tablespoon of mayonnaise as a substitute. This will provide creaminess without the risk associated with raw eggs. You can also use a vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based option.
Is this salad gluten-free?
The salad itself is gluten-free, but be sure to check the crouton packaging, as they may contain gluten. You can easily make your own gluten-free croutons by toasting gluten-free bread with olive oil and seasonings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).