Spicy Caesar Salad
A spicy, tangy Caesar salad with jalapeno, garlic, and Parmesan, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and a kick of heat in their greens.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a food processor, chop garlic and jalapeno to the finest consistency possible.
- Add the remaining ingredients (except lettuce and croutons) and blend until of a pureed consistency.
- Chill the dressing for 30 minutes.
- Tear the Romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and pour the dressing over.
- Toss well to coat the lettuce evenly and top with croutons before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder dressing, consider reducing the amount of jalapeno or removing the seeds. If you're out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute. Adding a touch of honey can balance the heat if desired. If you'd like a creamier dressing, incorporate a bit of Greek yogurt. This Spicy Caesar Salad makes a fantastic side dish to grilled chicken or fish.
Serving Suggestions
This Spicy Caesar Salad can be served as a bold appetizer or a side dish alongside grilled meats or a light pasta. Consider pairing it with crusty bread or as a side to a hearty soup. For a complete meal, add sliced grilled chicken or shrimp on top. It pairs beautifully with Lemony Cheesecake Squares for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will meld and intensify over time. When ready to use, give it a good stir. For leftover salad, keep the dressing and lettuce separate to prevent sogginess. Combine them just before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Caesar Salad contains roughly 237 calories, with 8g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1452mg per serving (63% 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 make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be made up to two days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, and give it a good stir before using. The flavors will develop further as it sits, enhancing the overall taste of your Spicy Caesar Salad.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, you can make this salad vegetarian by omitting the anchovies in the dressing. The other ingredients, such as Parmesan and Worcestershire sauce, may contain animal-derived ingredients, so be sure to choose vegetarian-friendly versions if necessary.
What can I use instead of Tabasco sauce?
If you don't have Tabasco, try using sriracha or another hot sauce of your choice for a similar heat level. Alternatively, you can use red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper if you prefer a different flavor profile, while maintaining the spicy kick.
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).