Creamy Garlic Caesar Salad with Parmesan Crunch

Meet the ultimate mashup of classic flavors and fresh twists. This Caesar salad balances a tangy dressing with crisp romaine lettuce and Parmesan cheese—plus a dash of that unmistakable garlic kick. It’s easy to throw together and is guaranteed to impress at the dinner table.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups cubed bread (preferably day-old), for croutons
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for croutons
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Begin by making your croutons. Toss the cubed bread with a light drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and a crack of fresh black pepper. Spread the bread cubes onto a baking sheet, and toast them in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until they turn golden and crisp. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.

While the croutons are baking, put together the creamy dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together three tablespoons of olive oil, the minced garlic, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Keep whisking until the dressing becomes smooth and silky. Give it a quick taste, adding salt and pepper if needed.

In a large salad bowl, layer the chopped romaine and sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan. Drizzle on the dressing and toss gently, ensuring all those green leaves are well-coated. Scatter the warm croutons over the top, letting them provide a satisfying crunch with every bite.

This Caesar salad stands out for its bright, tangy dressing and savory undertones—perfect for anyone looking to elevate a simple weeknight dinner. Swap out mayo for Greek yogurt if you want a lighter option, or add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Whichever way you toss it up, you’ll love the robust flavors and foolproof simplicity of this timeless dish.