Classic Caesar Salad with Creamy Homemade Dressing Recipe

Classic Caesar Salad pairs crisp romaine lettuce with savory Parmesan and a creamy homemade Caesar dressing. Simple, bright, and satisfying, this salad is an easy side or light main you can prepare any night of the week.

This foolproof recipe comes together quickly — in about 10 minutes — and the fresh homemade dressing elevates the salad beyond store-bought mixes. The base version is served without croutons, but feel free to add them for extra crunch. It’s perfect alongside a weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests.

Try this salad with a pan-seared ribeye for a fast, delicious meal.

Caesar Salad Highlights 🍋

Caesar salad is beloved for its balanced textures and bold, familiar flavors. A few fresh ingredients and minimal prep create a dish that feels indulgent without being heavy.

• Fresh ingredients: Crisp romaine and freshly grated or shaved Parmesan combine with a bright homemade dressing for the best flavor.
• Ready in 10 minutes: Whisk the dressing, toss with lettuce and Parmesan, and the salad is ready — fast and entirely homemade.
• Versatile: Serve as a starter or side, or add protein to make it a full meal. It’s great for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients You Need

This salad requires only a handful of pantry staples plus lettuce and cheese. Most items are commonly on hand and easily found at any grocery store.

NOTE: The full ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card below.

• Romaine lettuce: Use fresh, crisp romaine hearts for the best texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated or shaved Parmesan is recommended — grate or shave from a block just before serving.

Homemade Caesar Dressing Ingredients

• Mayo: Forms the creamy base of the dressing.
• Neutral oil: Grapeseed or light olive oil work well for a mild flavor.
• Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens and balances the dressing.
• Garlic: Use fresh garlic for the best taste.
• Dijon mustard: Adds subtle tang and helps emulsify.
• Worcestershire sauce: Contributes deep umami flavor.
• Egg yolk: Traditional Caesar dressing includes an egg yolk for richness and body.
• Anchovy paste or fillets: Anchovies bring the signature savory note. Use paste or puree fillets with an immersion blender if you prefer whole anchovies.
• Salt and pepper: Freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste.

How to Make Caesar Salad Dressing

Making the dressing is quick and straightforward. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth, or use an immersion blender for a perfectly silky texture. The dressing can be made up to three days ahead and stored in the fridge.

1. Whisk together the mayo, lemon juice, egg yolk, garlic, Dijon mustard, anchovy paste (or pureed anchovy fillets), and Worcestershire sauce in a medium bowl. If using whole anchovies and you prefer a very smooth dressing, puree with an immersion blender.

2. While whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in the oil to emulsify. Stir in the grated Parmesan and season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the lemon or seasoning if needed.

How to Make Caesar Salad

1. In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine with enough dressing to coat the leaves evenly.
2. Sprinkle generously with shaved or grated Parmesan. Finish with a squeeze of lemon or freshly ground black pepper if desired.
3. Serve the salad cold. It’s particularly delicious alongside a grilled or pan-seared steak.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon, garlic, and cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Keep the lettuce crisp: Choose romaine with firm green leaves and no browning. Store wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a bag for maximum freshness.
• Grate or shave Parmesan just before serving: Freshly prepared cheese is brighter and melts slightly into the dressing.
• Don’t skip the anchovies: They add depth and umami. Start with a small amount if you’re cautious; the flavor blends into the dressing.
• Make croutons at home: Cube day-old bread, toss with oil, salt, and garlic, then bake until crisp for the best crunch.
• Serve chilled: Toss the salad in a cold bowl or chill briefly before serving — Caesar tastes best cold and fresh.
• Add protein: To make the salad a full meal, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, bacon, or add boiled eggs or avocado.

Make Ahead and Storage

To keep the salad crisp, store the lettuce separately from the dressing.

• Lettuce: Chop, rinse, and dry in a salad spinner. Store wrapped in a paper towel inside an airtight container or zipper bag for up to three days.
• Dressing: Make the dressing up to three days ahead and refrigerate in a sealed jar. Shake or whisk before using.
• Parmesan: Grate or shave right before serving for the freshest flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Caesar salad pairs well with a wide range of mains. It complements rich proteins and baked pasta dishes and works as a bright contrast to hearty meals.

• Pan-seared ribeye or other grilled steaks
• Baked pasta dishes
• Roasted or air-fryer chicken
• Seafood like grilled shrimp or salmon

Save this Classic Caesar Salad recipe for an easy, reliable salad that’s ideal whenever you want a fresh, flavorful dish.