Personal Caesar Salad with Crunchy Croutons
Enjoy a classic Caesar salad with a personal twist. Fresh romaine lettuce is tossed with a rich Caesar dressing, topped with aged Parmesan cheese and crispy homemade croutons. Anchovies add a savory depth to this indulgent dish, making it perfect for a solo treat or a special starter.
ingredients
- 4-5 fresh romaine lettuce leaves (washed and dried)
- 0.35 oz aged Parmesan cheese (shredded)
- 1-2 high-quality anchovy fillets (to taste) For the croutons:
- 1 slice sourdough bread (cut into medium cubes)
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 garlic clove (mashed)
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste For the Caesar dressing:
- 1/2 raw egg yolk (or 1/2 tbsp high-quality mayonnaise as a substitute)
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp white wine vinegar
- 1/2 anchovy fillet (mashed)
- 1/4 garlic clove (mashed)
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 0.18 oz grated Parmesan cheese (1 tsp)
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
steps
- 1.
For the croutons, heat a skillet over medium heat. Toss the bread cubes with olive oil, mashed garlic, salt, and pepper.
- 2.
Toast the bread cubes in the skillet for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crisp. Remove and let cool slightly.
- 3.
To prepare the Caesar dressing, whisk together the yolk (or mayonnaise), mustard, and vinegar in a small bowl. Add the mashed anchovy and garlic, mixing until combined.
- 4.
Gradually drizzle in olive oil while whisking to achieve a creamy consistency. Add lemon juice, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- 5.
Tear the romaine leaves into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl, ensuring they're completely dry before dressing.
- 6.
Add a tablespoon of the Caesar dressing (or more to taste) and toss gently until the leaves are lightly coated.
- 7.
Top with toasted croutons and sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan.
- 8.
Serve the salad beautifully arranged on a flat plate, garnished with anchovy fillets, extra Parmesan, and freshly cracked pepper.