Easy Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons

• 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cubed bread (for croutons)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 anchovy fillets (optional, for authentic flavor)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss bread cubes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. 2 Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
3. 3 For the dressing, combine Parmesan, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and anchovies (if using) in a small bowl.
4. 4 Whisk in 2 tablespoons olive oil until smooth.
5. 5 In a large bowl, toss chopped romaine with enough dressing to coat.
6. 6 Divide salad among plates, top with croutons and additional grated Parmesan.
7. 7 Serve immediately and enjoy!

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Variations

• Add grilled chicken for a protein boost.
• Substitute lemon juice with lime for a tangy twist.

Substitutions

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
• Omit anchovies for a non-fish version of the dressing.

Pairings

• Grilled chicken breast
• Shrimp cocktail
• Crusty baguette

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, let the chopped romaine marinate in the dressing for 10 minutes before serving.
• Toast the bread cubes a bit longer if you prefer crunchier croutons.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Dress just before serving.

Freezing: Croutons freeze well for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature. Do not freeze the dressed salad.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Serve with crusty bread and a glass of chilled white wine.

FAQ