Caesar Salad: A Legendary Classic Born from the South of the Border

Step back in time to the Fourth of July in 1924, in the vibrant city of Tijuana, Mexico. There, a talented Italian-Mexican restaurateur named Caesar Cardini found himself facing an unexpected challenge. Amidst a crazy holiday rush at his restaurant, with ingredients running low, Caesar had to think on his feet and create a dish using what he had on hand. Little did he know that this impromptu creation would become a legendary classic known as Caesar Salad.

The tale of the origin of this beloved salad may be shrouded in some myth and mystery, but one thing is clear: it is an awesome dish that has stood the test of time. Packed with savory umami notes from the Worcestershire, Parmesan, and anchovies, and offering a satisfying crunch from Romaine lettuce and crisp croutons, Caesar Salad is a flavor-packed experience.

Traditionally, the dressing for Caesar Salad was loosely whisked together tableside. However, we’ve discovered that making the dressing with a base of strongly emulsified mayonnaise gives it a richer and more satisfying coating for the lettuce. The dressing clings beautifully to the leaves, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.

SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 to 3 romaine lettuce hearts, separated into individual leaves, larger leaves cut in half crosswise
• ½ recipe (about ¾ cup) Caesar Salad Dressing (recipe follows)
• 1 recipe Garlic Parmesan Croutons (recipe follows)
• 1 ounce Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated (about ½ cup)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Begin by washing the lettuce and carefully drying it by laying the leaves out on a paper towel-lined baking sheet.
2. Gently toss the lettuce and Caesar Salad Dressing together in a large serving bowl, using your clean hands for an even distribution of flavors. Add the Garlic Parmesan Croutons and gently toss again to combine.
3. Sprinkle the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano over the salad, adding the finishing touch of nutty and salty goodness.
4. Serve the Caesar Salad immediately, savoring each forkful of this timeless creation that perfectly balances creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements.

CAESAR SALAD DRESSING: 

Makes about 1½ cups

1. In the bowl of a food processor, combine 1 cup mayonnaise, 2 ounces finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, 4 anchovy fillets, and 2 medium cloves of minced garlic. Process the mixture until it becomes homogeneous, about 15 seconds, scraping down the sides once or twice during processing as needed.
2. Transfer the dressing to a medium bowl and while whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil. Add water a teaspoon at a time until the dressing reaches the desired consistency – just thin enough to flow slowly off a spoon.
3. Season the dressing with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

GARLIC PARMESAN CROUTONS: 

Makes about 4 cups

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and adjust the rack to the middle position. In a large bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil and 1 medium clove of minced garlic until thoroughly mixed. Toss ½ loaf of ciabatta or hearty Italian bread, cut into ½-inch cubes, in the oil until evenly coated.
2. Season the croutons with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then spread them out on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake the croutons, flipping them halfway through cooking, until they are dry and lightly browned, about 20 minutes.
3. While the croutons are still hot, transfer them to a large bowl and toss them with 1 ounce of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano to coat them evenly.

NOTE:

• These homemade Garlic Parmesan Croutons are so delicious that you’ll want to enjoy them on their own, and they make a fantastic addition to chopped salads and soups.

With this historic and delightful Caesar Salad recipe, you can pay homage to the ingenuity of Caesar Cardini and savor the wonderful flavors that have captured hearts for nearly a century. Enjoy this classic salad at any celebration, from Fourth of July parties to intimate family gatherings, and relish the magic of the South-of-the-Border creation that became an unforgettable culinary legacy.