Ultimate Caesar Salad with Anchovy-Lemon Emulsion
This Ultimate Caesar Salad recipe is a tribute to the classic dish that combines the richness of homemade mayonnaise with the umami kick of anchovies and the brightness of lemon juice. Inspired by Samin Nosrat's 'Salt Fat Acid Heat,' this version emphasizes the art of layering flavors, balancing the salty, tangy, and creamy components harmoniously. Crisp romaine lettuce and crunchy, torn croutons provide great texture, while freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty finish. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this Caesar salad elevates your salad game and brings an iconic flavor to your table.
N/A
Servings
550
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
Anchovy fillets
2 (pounded)
Garlic
2 cloves (pounded with a pinch of salt)
Salt
to taste (for seasoning)
Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp (cap removed)
Homemade mayonnaise
1/2 cup (stiff)
Fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp (freshly squeezed)
Vinegar
1 tbsp (preferably red wine vinegar)
Crispy lettuce
1 head (torn into pieces)
Torn croutons
1 cup (stoically prepared)
Pepper
to taste (freshly cracked)
Instructions
1
Prepare the salty ingredients by finely grating the Parmesan cheese, pounding the anchovies into a paste, and mashing the garlic with a pinch of salt until smooth.
2
In a mixing bowl, create a stiff unsalted mayonnaise. To stabilize the bowl, place a damp dish towel underneath it.
3
Gradually incorporate each salty ingredient into the mayonnaise one at a time, mixing thoroughly to combine.
4
Add the fresh lemon juice and vinegar, then taste the dressing. Adjust the flavor by adding more anchovy, Parmesan, or Worcestershire sauce as needed.
5
Continue tasting and fine-tuning the balance of flavors until you achieve the desired flavor, using additional salt if necessary.
6
For an extra layer of flavor, dip a piece of lettuce into the dressing to test it again; adjust if needed.
7
In a large bowl, combine the crispy lettuce and torn croutons, then pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently to combine, ensuring every piece of lettuce is coated.
8
Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and cracked pepper to taste before serving.
9
Enjoy your Ultimate Caesar Salad as a delightful side or a light meal!
Nutrition Information
45g
Fat
20g
Carbs
15g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ultimate Caesar Salad with Anchovy-Lemon Emulsion?
It is a gourmet version of the classic Caesar salad that combines homemade mayonnaise with a rich anchovy and lemon emulsion for a balanced, umami-forward flavor profile.
Who inspired this Caesar salad recipe?
This recipe is inspired by Samin Nosrat's book 'Salt Fat Acid Heat,' focusing on the harmony of salty, tangy, and creamy components.
How many calories are in a serving of this salad?
The recipe contains approximately 550 calories per serving.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
This Caesar salad contains 45g of fat.
How many grams of protein are in the salad?
There are 15g of protein per serving.
What are the carbohydrate counts for this recipe?
This salad contains 20g of carbohydrates.
How many anchovy fillets are required?
The recipe calls for 2 anchovy fillets, pounded into a paste.
What kind of lettuce should be used?
One head of crispy romaine lettuce, torn into pieces, is recommended for the best texture.
How do I prepare the garlic for the dressing?
The garlic should be mashed into a smooth paste with a pinch of salt using a mortar and pestle or the side of a knife.
Why is homemade mayonnaise recommended?
Homemade mayonnaise provides a specific stiffness and richness that forms the perfect base for the anchovy-lemon emulsion.
How much Parmesan cheese is needed for the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese.
What type of vinegar is best for this dressing?
The recipe suggests using 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar.
How much lemon juice should I add?
Use 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice to provide the necessary acidity.
What is the purpose of Worcestershire sauce in the dressing?
Worcestershire sauce adds a secondary layer of savory umami to complement the anchovies.
How do I stabilize the mixing bowl when making the emulsion?
Place a damp dish towel underneath the mixing bowl to prevent it from sliding while you whisk.
What is the recommended way to prepare croutons?
The recipe suggests using 1 cup of torn croutons rather than uniform cubes for a better rustic texture.
How do I adjust the flavor if it is not salty enough?
You can add more anchovy paste, Parmesan cheese, or a pinch of additional salt after tasting.
What is the best way to test the dressing?
Dip a piece of the crispy lettuce into the dressing to evaluate the balance of flavors before coating the entire salad.
Is this recipe considered a light meal or a side dish?
It is versatile enough to be served as a sophisticated side dish or as a light standalone meal.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients total, including seasonings like salt and pepper.
Should the Parmesan be pre-grated?
For the best texture and flavor, it is recommended to finely grate fresh Parmesan cheese yourself.
Can I substitute the red wine vinegar?
While red wine vinegar is preferred, you can use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if needed.
How should the dressing be combined with the lettuce?
Pour the dressing over the lettuce and croutons in a large bowl and toss gently to ensure every piece is evenly coated.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include classic recipe, umami flavor, homemade mayonnaise, and comfort food.
How do I achieve the 'emulsion' texture?
Slowly incorporate the salty ingredients and acids into a stiff mayonnaise base to maintain a thick, creamy consistency.
Can I add extra pepper to the salad?
Yes, the recipe suggests sprinkling freshly cracked pepper to taste just before serving.
What should I do if the dressing is too thick?
The addition of lemon juice and vinegar will naturally thin the stiff mayonnaise base; adjust these acids until the desired consistency is reached.
How much Worcestershire sauce is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
Based on the nutritional data provided, there is no significant sugar content in this recipe.
What is the final garnish for the salad?
The salad is finished with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper.