Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Caesar salad, featuring crisp romaine lettuce and a creamy dressing, enhanced with luxurious ingredients for an elevated experience.
Why Caesar Salad?
Caesar salad combines fresh greens with protein-rich anchovies (Engraulis encrasicolus) and wholesome fats from olive oil, providing a satisfying meal that supports heart health and satiety.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of Romaine lettuce (Lactuca sativa), torn into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup homemade Caesar dressing (see instructions below)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (optional)
- 1 cup croutons (preferably made from artisanal whole grain bread)
- 2 tablespoons capers (Capparis spinosa), drained (optional)
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Homemade Caesar Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (Brassica nigra)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (Tamarindus indica)
- 1 clove garlic (Allium sativum), minced
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil (Olea europaea)
- Juice of 1 lemon (Citrus limon)
- Fleur de sel (hand-harvested sea salt) and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, Fleur de sel, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in olive oil until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
- Combine the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine torn Romaine lettuce, croutons, and capers. Drizzle with the homemade dressing and toss gently to coat.
- Serve: Top with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper before serving.
Nutrition Tips from Your Dietitian:
- Leafy Greens: Romaine lettuce is high in vitamins A, C, and K, promoting overall health.
- Healthy Fats: The olive oil and cheese provide beneficial fats for heart health.
- Protein Boost: Adding grilled chicken or chickpeas can enhance the protein content.
Final Thoughts
Caesar salad is a timeless classic that can be enjoyed as a side or main dish. This luxurious rendition elevates the flavors while providing essential nutrients for a well-rounded meal.
