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Crispy Classic Caesar Salad Recipe Easy Homemade with Fresh Flavors

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A quick and easy Caesar salad featuring crispy baked garlic-herb croutons and a creamy, zesty dressing with fresh lemon zest and cracked pink peppercorns for a fresh twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large heads romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cups cubed day-old baguette or sourdough bread
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (for croutons)
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (for dressing)
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped capers (optional)
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon cracked pink peppercorns (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss bread cubes with 1/4 cup olive oil and minced garlic until evenly coated. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  2. Bake croutons for 12-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and crispy. Remove and let cool.
  3. While croutons bake, wash and dry romaine lettuce thoroughly. Tear into bite-sized pieces and place in a large salad bowl.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Add lemon zest and chopped capers if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Pour dressing over lettuce and toss gently to coat. Add about 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan and toss again.
  6. Sprinkle cooled croutons over salad, add remaining Parmesan, and toss lightly. Garnish with cracked pink peppercorns.
  7. Serve immediately, optionally in chilled bowls with a lemon wedge on the side.

Notes

For dairy-free, swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use vegan mayo. Gluten-free bread can be used for croutons. Prep croutons a day ahead and store airtight to keep crisp. Avoid overdressing salad; add extra dressing on the side if desired. Dry lettuce thoroughly to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caesar salad, crispy croutons, homemade dressing, easy salad recipe, fresh lemon zest, classic Caesar, quick salad

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