Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Creamy Dressing

Classic Caesar Salad features crisp romaine, savory Parmesan, and a creamy homemade Caesar dressing. This timeless side is simple to prepare and makes a reliable go-to for weeknight meals or entertaining.

Ready in minutes, this straightforward recipe will convince you that homemade dressing is worth the small effort. The base version below omits croutons, but they’re an easy addition if you prefer more crunch. Pair this salad with a hearty protein for a complete meal.

Serve alongside a pan-seared ribeye for a quick, satisfying dinner.

Caesar Salad Highlights 🍋

Caesar salad is beloved for its balanced textures and bold flavors. It’s quick to assemble yet feels indulgent without being heavy.

• Fresh ingredients: Crisp romaine, freshly grated or shaved Parmesan, and a bright dressing make this salad sing.
• Fast to prepare: The dressing whisks together in minutes. Toss with lettuce and Parmesan for a ready-to-serve salad in under 10 minutes.
• Versatile: Serve as a starter or side, or top with protein like chicken, shrimp, or salmon to make it a main course.

Ingredients You Need

This recipe relies on a short ingredient list: the components for the dressing plus romaine and Parmesan. Most items are pantry staples, and the full measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

• Romaine lettuce: Pick fresh, crisp romaine hearts for the best texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated or shaved from a block delivers superior flavor and texture.

Homemade Caesar Dressing Ingredients

• Mayo: Forms the creamy base of the dressing.
• Neutral oil: Grapeseed or light olive oil works well for emulsifying without overpowering flavor.
• Fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the richness.
• Garlic: Use fresh for the best flavor.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and helps emulsify.
• Worcestershire sauce: Contributes deep umami notes typical of Caesar dressing.
• Egg yolk: Traditional and helps create a silky texture.
• Anchovy paste or fillets: Provides signature savory depth; anchovy paste is convenient and easy to blend.
• Salt and pepper: Freshly ground black pepper and kosher salt to taste.

How to Make Caesar Salad Dressing

Homemade dressing is quick and easy to make. Whisk the ingredients together in a bowl or use an immersion blender for a very smooth result. You can make the dressing up to three days ahead and refrigerate until ready to use.

1. Whisk together the mayo, lemon juice, egg yolk, garlic, Dijon mustard, anchovy paste (or pureed anchovy fillets), and Worcestershire sauce in a medium bowl. If using whole anchovy fillets, an immersion blender or food processor will help incorporate them smoothly.

2. Slowly drizzle in the oil while whisking constantly to emulsify. Stir in the Parmesan, then season with salt and freshly ground pepper. Taste and adjust lemon or salt as needed.

How to Make Caesar Salad

1. In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine with just enough dressing to coat the leaves evenly.
2. Finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly shaved or grated Parmesan. Add a squeeze of lemon or a crack of fresh black pepper if desired.
3. Serve chilled. This salad pairs particularly well with grilled or pan-seared steak.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh produce: Fresh garlic, lemon, and high-quality Parmesan make a noticeable difference.
• Keep lettuce crisp: Store unwashed romaine wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a sealed bag in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• Grate or shave Parmesan just before serving: Freshly prepared cheese melts into the dressing and adds the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t skip anchovies: They add authentic savory depth; start with a small amount if you’re cautious.
• Make croutons from day-old bread: Toss cubes with oil, salt, and garlic, then bake until crispy.
• Serve cold: Toss and serve immediately for the best texture; chilling the bowl briefly helps keep the salad crisp.
• Add protein as desired: Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or crispy bacon turn this salad into a satisfying main course.

Make Ahead and Storage

Store the dressing separately from the lettuce to keep the salad crisp.

• Lettuce: Wash, spin dry, and store in a paper towel–lined airtight container or sealed bag for up to three days.
• Dressing: Prepare the dressing up to three days ahead and keep it refrigerated in a sealed jar. Whisk or shake before using.
• Parmesan: Grate or shave just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Caesar salad pairs well with many dishes. It’s a classic side for steak, pasta bakes, and roasted or pan-fried proteins. It also works well as a light main when topped with grilled chicken or seafood.

Keep this Classic Caesar Salad recipe on hand for any time you want a flavorful, satisfying salad that’s quick to assemble.