Garlicky Caesar Salad

White bowl filled with Garlicky Caesar Salad.

What You'll Find Here

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Craving a salad that's packed with flavor and offers a delightful mix of textures? Look no further than the Garlicky Caesar Salad. This timeless dish takes the classic Caesar salad to a whole new level with its garlicky dressing and crunchy homemade croutons. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of creating this mouthwatering salad from scratch. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests with this delicious and satisfying Garlicky Caesar Salad.

The Garlicky Caesar Salad is a beloved classic in the world of salads and owes its origins to the iconic Caesar Salad. The Caesar Salad is named after its creator, Caesar Cardini, an Italian-American restaurateur. The story goes that this salad was invented in the 1920s in Tijuana, Mexico, where Cardini owned a restaurant. Legend has it that during a busy Fourth of July weekend, Cardini concocted this salad with the ingredients he had on hand, creating a sensation with its bold flavors and tableside preparation.

The original Caesar Salad consists of romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, olive oil, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic. It's known for its creamy dressing made by emulsifying egg yolk and oil, creating a rich and tangy sauce. The Garlicky Caesar Salad takes this classic to the next level by emphasizing the garlicky goodness, making it a favorite for garlic lovers.

Courses ,
Difficulty Beginner
Time
Prep Time: 15 mins Cook Time: 10 mins Total Time: 25 mins
Servings 5
Calories 377.12
Best Season Suitable throughout the year
Description

The Garlicky Caesar Salad is a perfect balance of crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Parmesan cheese, and savory garlic-infused dressing. This recipe offers a twist on the traditional Caesar salad by intensifying the flavors with the addition of extra garlic. The homemade croutons add a delightful crunch to each bite, making this salad a crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal, the Garlicky Caesar Salad is sure to leave you craving more.

Tools and Equipment

Ingredients
    For the Salad:
  • 2 large heads of romaine lettuce (washed and torn into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • homemade croutons (see instructions below)
    • For the Dressing:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 clove garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • salt and pepper (to taste)
    • For the Homemade Croutons:
  • 4 day-old bread slices (cut into cubes)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
  • salt and pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to make the homemade croutons.

  2. In a mixing bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients—mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined and creamy.

  3. In a large serving bowl or individual salad plates, add the torn romaine lettuce.

  4. Pour the dressing over the lettuce and toss gently until each leaf is coated.

  5. Add the cherry tomatoes and grated Parmesan cheese to the salad bowl and gently mix them with the lettuce.

  6. To make the homemade croutons, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl until the cubes are well coated.

  7. Spread the seasoned bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes or until golden and crispy.

  8. Allow the croutons to cool slightly before adding them to the salad.

  9. Sprinkle the homemade croutons over the dressed salad.

  10. Serve the Garlicky Caesar Salad immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 5

Amount Per Serving
Calories 377.12kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 28.38g44%
Saturated Fat 5.65g29%
Trans Fat 0.01g
Cholesterol 10.21mg4%
Sodium 589.34mg25%
Potassium 737.43mg22%
Total Carbohydrate 22.35g8%
Dietary Fiber 6.51g27%
Sugars 5.34g
Protein 11.34g23%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.

Note
Tips and Variations:
  • For a twist on the classic recipe, add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a heartier main course.
  • Experiment with different types of lettuce, such as baby kale or mixed greens, for a unique flavor profile.
  • Add a handful of crumbled bacon or sliced avocado for additional texture and flavor.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the Worcestershire sauce or use a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
  • Customize the dressing by adjusting the amount of garlic and lemon juice according to your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions:
  • Serve the Garlicky Caesar Salad as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or steak.
  • Pair it with a crusty baguette for a complete and satisfying meal.
Allergen Information:

The Garlicky Caesar Salad can contain allergens, so it's essential to be mindful of the ingredients used. Here are potential allergen considerations:

  • Gluten Allergies: Croutons are a typical component of Caesar Salad, and they are often made from bread, which contains gluten. To make this salad gluten-free, use gluten-free croutons or skip them altogether.

  • Dairy Allergies: Caesar Salad traditionally includes Parmesan cheese. For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or omit the cheese.

  • Egg Allergies: The classic Caesar Salad dressing contains raw egg yolks. You can use pasteurized eggs or a vegan mayonnaise as an egg substitute for a similar texture without the allergen.

  • Anchovy Allergies: Traditional Caesar Salad dressing also includes anchovies or anchovy paste for umami flavor. If you have fish allergies or prefer a vegetarian version, you can find anchovy-free dressings or make your own using ingredients like capers.

Wine or Drink Pairing:

The Garlicky Caesar Salad pairs well with a range of beverages, offering a refreshing and savory dining experience:

  • Chardonnay: The creaminess of the dressing and the garlic notes in the salad complement a crisp, unoaked Chardonnay.

  • Sauvignon Blanc: This white wine's bright acidity and herbal notes contrast nicely with the richness of the salad.

  • Iced Tea: A glass of iced tea, especially varieties like black or green tea, provides a refreshing and palate-cleansing accompaniment to the salad.

  • Mineral Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling mineral water with a squeeze of lemon or lime is a crisp and refreshing choice.

Storage and Leftovers:

If you have leftover Garlicky Caesar Salad, follow these guidelines for storage and serving:

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best to store the dressing separately to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. Consume the leftovers within 1-2 days.

  • Croutons: To keep croutons crispy, store them separately from the salad components and add them just before serving.

  • Reheating: Caesar Salad is typically served cold, so there's no need to reheat it. If you refrigerated the dressing, allow it to come to room temperature before tossing it with the salad.

  • Dressing: If the dressing thickens in the refrigerator, you can thin it out by adding a small amount of water or lemon juice and whisking it until smooth.

Keywords: Garlicky Caesar Salad, Caesar Salad, Homemade Dressing, Croutons, Salad Recipe, Easy, Fresh