Caesar Salad

Ingredients

• 2 medium heads of romaine lettuce (about 10 cups chopped into bite-sized pieces washed, and dried)
• 1 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups cubed day-old bread (French or Italian bread works well)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (or 2-3 anchovy fillets, minced)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. 1

   --- Step 1: Make the homemade croutons (optional) ---

2. 2

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

3. 3

   In a large bowl, toss the cubed bread with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

4. 4

   Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Set aside to cool.

5. 5

   --- Step 2: Prepare the Caesar dressing ---

6. 6

   In a bowl or blender, combine the minced garlic, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, myonnaise,W orcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Mix or blend until well combined.

7. 7

   Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking or blending continuously to emulsify the dressing.

8. 8

   Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

9. 9

   --- Step 3: Assemble the Caesar salad ---

10. 10

    In a large salad bowl, add the torn romaine lettuce, croutons, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.

11. 11

    Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad, starting with a small amount and adding more as needed. Toss the salad gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

12. 12

    --- Step 4: Serve the Caesar salad ---

13. 13

    Divide the Caesar salad among 4-6 serving plates or bowls. Top each serving with additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

14. 14

    Serve immediately, as a starter or side