VOL. XIII
NO. 014
Bottle & Flame
Musings on food, wine, and more
EST. MMXIII
LAKE OSWEGO, OR
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Classic Caesar Salad
flameSalads

Classic Caesar Salad

Serves6

Ingredients

  • 6 anchovy fillets packed in oil, drained
  • 1 small garlic clove

Kosher salt

  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, plus more
  • ¾ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 3 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan

Freshly ground black pepper

  • 3 cups torn 1" pieces country bread, with crusts
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 romaine hearts, leaves separated

Parmesan, for serving

Instructions

  1. Chop together anchovy fillets, garlic, and pinch of salt. Use the side of a knife blade to mash into a paste, then scrape into a medium bowl. Whisk in egg yolks, 2 Tbsp. lemon juice, and mustard. Adding drop by drop to start, gradually whisk in olive oil, then vegetable oil; whisk until dressing is thick and glossy. Whisk in Parmesan. Season with salt, pepper, and more lemon juice, if desired.
  2. Do Ahead: Can be made 1 day ahead.
  3. Make your own. Tearing, not cutting the bread ensures nooks and crannies that catch the dressing and add texture. Preheat oven to 375°. Toss bread with olive oil on a baking sheet; season with salt and pepper. Bake, tossing occasionally, until golden, 10–15 minutes.
  4. Use whole leaves; they provide the ideal mix of crispness, surface area, and structure.
  5. Caesars crowned with a mound of grated Parmesan may look impressive, but all that clumpy cheese mutes the dressing. Instead, use a vegetable peeler to thinly shave a modest amount on top for little salty bursts.
  6. Skip the tongs. Use your hands to gently toss the lettuce, croutons, and dressing, then top off with the shaved Parm.

Originally published at Bonappetit.com. Reproduced for personal collection.

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