Classic Cesar Cardini's Caesar Salad Dressing
Experience the timeless elegance of Cesar Cardini's original Caesar Salad Dressing recipe. This authentic version embraces the simplicity and robust flavors of the earliest Caesar salads, featuring grated Parmesan and a hint of Worcestershire sauce. While the original did not include bacon, croutons, or anchovies, these optional additions give a contemporary twist to this classic dressing—perfect for those who relish a richer, more complex taste. This dressing, made from scratch with fresh ingredients, far surpasses store-bought alternatives in flavor and authenticity.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Garlic cloves
2 (Crushed)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Black pepper
3/4 teaspoon (None)
Parmesan cheese
4 1/2 tablespoons (Shredded, not grated)
Olive oil
3 tablespoons (None)
Red wine vinegar
1 1/2 tablespoons (None)
Worcestershire sauce
1/8 teaspoon (None)
Egg yolk
1 (None)
Bacon bits
4 1/2 tablespoons (Optional)
Romaine lettuce
1 head (Chopped)
Instructions
1
Start by preparing the serving bowl: Rub the crushed garlic cloves around the interior of a wooden salad bowl to infuse it with a subtle garlicky aroma.
2
In the same bowl, combine the salt and pepper to create a seasoned base.
3
Add the shredded Parmesan cheese, olive oil, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and egg yolk to the bowl. Stir these ingredients together to form a well-blended mixture.
4
If desired, mix in the bacon bits to introduce a savory, smoky flavor.
5
Right before serving, add the chopped romaine lettuce to the bowl. Toss the salad gently, ensuring every leaf is coated in the dressing.
6
Finish by garnishing with additional shaved Parmesan for an extra touch of flavor.
7
Optional: For a more robust dressing, incorporate 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and 3-4 finely minced anchovies mashed into a paste. Mix well into the dressing and enjoy a richer taste. You can also include croutons for added texture.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is for Classic Cesar Cardini's Caesar Salad Dressing.
Who is credited with the original recipe?
The recipe is attributed to Cesar Cardini.
What is the flavor profile of this dressing?
It features simplicity and robust flavors including grated Parmesan and a hint of Worcestershire sauce.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 6 servings.
What type of bowl is recommended for preparation?
A wooden salad bowl is recommended.
How do you prepare the garlic for the bowl?
You rub the crushed garlic cloves around the interior of the bowl to infuse it with aroma.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe calls for 2 crushed garlic cloves.
What type of Parmesan cheese should be used?
The recipe specifies 4 1/2 tablespoons of shredded, not grated, Parmesan cheese.
What kind of oil is used in the dressing?
3 tablespoons of olive oil are used.
What type of vinegar is required?
1 1/2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar are used.
Is there egg in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe uses 1 egg yolk.
Does the original recipe include bacon?
No, the original did not include bacon, but it is an optional addition in this version.
How much Worcestershire sauce is added?
The recipe uses 1/8 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce.
How much salt and pepper are needed?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 3/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
What kind of lettuce is used?
One head of chopped romaine lettuce is used.
When should the lettuce be added?
Add the chopped romaine lettuce right before serving.
How do you incorporate bacon bits?
Mix in 4 1/2 tablespoons of bacon bits if a smoky flavor is desired.
What is the first step of the instructions?
The first step is to rub crushed garlic around the interior of a wooden salad bowl.
How should the salad be tossed?
The salad should be tossed gently to ensure every leaf is coated.
What is the final garnish?
Finish by garnishing with additional shaved Parmesan.
Can I add anchovies to this dressing?
Yes, for a more robust dressing, you can add 3-4 finely minced anchovies mashed into a paste.
How can I make the dressing more robust?
You can incorporate 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and minced anchovies.
Are croutons part of this recipe?
Croutons are an optional addition for added texture.
Is this recipe better than store-bought versions?
Yes, being made from scratch with fresh ingredients, it surpasses store-bought alternatives in flavor.
What ingredients create the seasoned base?
Salt and pepper are combined in the bowl to create the seasoned base.
What is the preparation for the Romaine lettuce?
The head of romaine lettuce should be chopped.
Is lemon juice in the standard ingredients list?
No, lemon juice is listed as an optional addition for a more robust flavor.
How much bacon is used if included?
4 1/2 tablespoons of optional bacon bits can be used.
What total number of ingredients are in the base recipe?
There are 10 total ingredients including the optional bacon and romaine lettuce.
Is the Parmesan grated?
The instructions specify using shredded Parmesan, not grated, for the main mixture.