Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will transform your perception of salads forever! This Extra Garlicky Homemade Caesar Salad with Bacon Croutons isn't just a dish—it's a bold statement of flavor, texture, and pure gastronomic excitement. Imagine crisp romaine lettuce dancing with intense garlic notes, crowned with irresistibly crunchy bacon croutons that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Whether you're a hardcore garlic enthusiast or simply someone who craves a salad with serious attitude, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup croutons
- 1/4 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Wash and thoroughly dry the romaine lettuce. Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place in a large salad bowl.
- In a small skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove from heat, drain on paper towels, and crumble into small pieces once cooled.
- Peel and mince the garlic cloves finely. For extra garlic intensity, use a microplane or garlic press to release more oils.
- If making homemade croutons, cube day-old bread, toss with olive oil, minced garlic, and salt. Bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Grate fresh Parmesan cheese using a fine grater for maximum flavor distribution.
- Drizzle Caesar dressing over chopped lettuce and toss gently to ensure even coating.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese over the dressed salad.
- Add croutons just before serving to maintain their crispness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the robust, garlicky flavors of this classic Caesar salad.
Tips
- Garlic Intensity: For maximum flavor, use fresh garlic and consider using a microplane or garlic press to release more essential oils.
- Crouton Crispness: Make your own croutons from day-old bread for superior texture. Always add them last to maintain their crunch.
- Lettuce Preparation: Thoroughly dry your romaine after washing to prevent a watery salad. A salad spinner works wonders.
- Bacon Brilliance: Cook bacon until extra crispy for maximum flavor and textural contrast.
- Cheese Tip: Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Dressing Distribution: Toss the salad gently to ensure even dressing coverage without bruising the lettuce.Pro Chef Secret: Let the salad's ingredients sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavor interactions!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
