If you're craving a taste of Italy that bursts with flavor and freshness, look no further than this classic Caesar Salad with Herb Croutons! In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant dish that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. With crisp romaine lettuce, zesty dressing, and homemade croutons that are perfectly seasoned with herbs, this salad is not just a side dish—it's a celebration of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Ready to impress your family and friends with a salad that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup homemade herb croutons
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the lettuce by washing the romaine head thoroughly under cold running water. Pat dry completely using clean kitchen towels or paper towels to ensure crisp texture.
- Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces, discarding any tough stem ends. Place chopped lettuce in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until well combined and emulsified.
- To make herb croutons, cube day-old bread into 1/2-inch pieces. Toss bread cubes with olive oil, dried herbs like oregano and thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Spread herb-seasoned bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crisp.
- Drizzle prepared dressing over chopped lettuce and gently toss to coat evenly, ensuring each leaf is lightly dressed.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dressed lettuce and add freshly made herb croutons.
- Serve immediately to maintain crouton crispness and lettuce freshness. Optionally garnish with additional Parmesan shavings.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your romaine lettuce and Parmesan cheese can make a significant difference. Opt for fresh, crisp romaine and high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Make Your Croutons Ahead: If you want to save time, prepare your herb croutons a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container to keep them crisp until you're ready to serve.
- Customize the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste. Add minced garlic for an extra kick or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
- Serve Immediately: To maintain the crouton’s crunch and the lettuce's freshness, serve the salad right after tossing it with the dressing.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try using different herbs for your croutons—basil, rosemary, or even a hint of chili flakes can add an exciting twist to this classic dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
