If you have ever wished for a salad that bursts with bold flavors while remaining refreshingly crisp and satisfying, look no further than this Classic Caesar Salad with Anchovy-Infused Dressing Recipe. Combining the crunch of fresh romaine, the nutty richness of Parmesan, and that unmistakable tangy, garlicky dressing infused with anchovies, this dish is nothing short of a sensational crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this salad elevates a simple green into a centerpiece worthy of any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Several ingredients are shown on a white marbled surface, including fresh green romaine lettuce leaves on the left side. To the right, there are multiple white bowls arranged neatly. The largest bowl contains a white grated or shredded cheese. Above that, a small bowl holds a light yellow liquid. To the right of that, another white bowl contains two raw egg yolks. To the far right, a bigger white bowl is filled with a light beige, crumbly ingredient. Other smaller white bowls contain various seasonings and items, including minced garlic, small dark brown fillets, dark soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and a golden liquid similar to oil or honey. The arrangement is clean and organized, with a simple, bright look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Classic Caesar Salad with Anchovy-Infused Dressing Recipe lies in its straightforward but carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavors and textures, from crisp to creamy to umami-packed delights.

Extra-virgin olive oil: Used to toast the panko breadcrumbs, it adds a warm, fruity note and golden crunch.
Panko breadcrumbs: These create irresistible homemade croutons that are light and crispy.
Romaine lettuce: The backbone of the salad, offering fresh crunch and a slightly bitter edge.
Parmesan cheese: Finely grated to melt subtly into the leaves with salty, nutty goodness.
Egg yolks: The base of a creamy, rich dressing that binds the flavors beautifully.
Anchovy filets: The secret umami powerhouse that defines this dressing’s savory depth.
Garlic cloves: Roughly chopped for a pungent kick that brightens every bite.
Fresh lemon juice: Adds essential acidity to balance the richness.
Kosher salt: Enhances all other flavors without overwhelming.
Avocado oil: A neutral oil that smooths the dressing without overpowering its delicate notes.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds complex layers of savory flavor with subtly sweet undertones.
Freshly cracked black pepper: For just the right amount of ground spice finishing the salad.

How to Make Classic Caesar Salad with Anchovy-Infused Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Toast the Panko Breadcrumbs

Start by heating the extra-virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and toast them, stirring often, until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This creates the crispiest croutons with a lovely, nutty flavor that will complement the salad’s texture perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing Base

In a food processor or blender, combine the egg yolks, roughly chopped anchovy filets, garlic cloves, and fresh lemon juice. Blend these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. This step ensures that the pungent anchovy flavor beautifully infuses into the dressing without overpowering the salad.

Step 3: Season and Emulsify the Dressing

Add kosher salt, Worcestershire sauce, and freshly cracked black pepper to the mixture. While blending continuously, slowly drizzle in the avocado oil to create a luscious, thick dressing that coats every leaf with its anchovy-infused goodness.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with the dressing, ensuring every piece is lightly but thoroughly coated. Sprinkle the finely grated Parmesan cheese over the salad, then finish by folding in the toasted panko breadcrumbs, giving the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, crisp, and crunchy.

How to Serve Classic Caesar Salad with Anchovy-Infused Dressing Recipe

A white plate on a white marbled surface holds a fresh layered salad. The base layer is made of large, bright green romaine lettuce leaves, spread evenly across the plate. On top of the lettuce, light beige creamy dressing is drizzled in small patches, adding smooth texture. Sprinkled over the salad are fine white grated cheese and small orange toasted crumbs, giving the dish color contrast and a slightly crunchy look. The salad has a light and fresh appearance with scattered black pepper dots enhancing its detail. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of flair, grate a bit more Parmesan over the top and sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper. You can also add a few anchovy fillets on the side for the die-hard fans who want an extra punch of savory flavor.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp, making it a complete meal. It also complements hearty sandwiches or pasta dishes perfectly—its bright, tangy profile cuts through richer flavors brilliantly.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve the Classic Caesar Salad with Anchovy-Infused Dressing Recipe in individual bowls topped with a Parmesan crisp or offer the toasted breadcrumbs separately so each person can add as much crunch as they like. It’s a charming and interactive way to experience this classic salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the salad components separately for best results: keep the dressing tightly sealed in the fridge, and the romaine lettuce wrapped in paper towels to preserve crispness. Combine just before serving to avoid soggy leaves.

Freezing

While the Classic Caesar Salad with Anchovy-Infused Dressing Recipe doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh greens and creamy dressing, you can freeze the dressing alone in an airtight container for up to a month. Just thaw it in the fridge before use and give it a good stir.

Reheating

This salad is best served fresh and cold, so reheating isn’t recommended. If you’ve included protein sides like grilled chicken, reheat those separately and add them freshly to the salad to maintain its crisp texture and vibrant flavors.

FAQs

Can I substitute anchovy filets if I don’t like fishy flavors?

The anchovy filets are key to the authentic flavor profile and add essential umami. However, you can try using Worcestershire sauce alone as a milder substitute, but the dressing might lose some of its character.

Is it safe to use raw egg yolks in the dressing?

Yes, using fresh, high-quality eggs is generally safe. If you’re concerned about raw eggs, you could use pasteurized eggs or look for egg-free Caesar dressing recipes, but the texture and flavor may differ.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dressing can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just whisk it gently before tossing with the salad to re-emulsify the mixture.

What type of lettuce works best for Caesar salad?

Romaine lettuce is the classic choice because of its crisp texture and slightly bitter taste, but you can experiment with varieties like little gem or even kale for a different twist.

How can I make this salad vegan-friendly?

To veganize this recipe, omit the anchovy filets and egg yolks, and substitute with vegan mayonnaise and capers for the dressing. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan to maintain that cheesy taste.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Caesar Salad with Anchovy-Infused Dressing Recipe has an uncanny way of transforming simple ingredients into a dish that feels luxurious and comforting all at once. I encourage you to try it and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved staple at your table, bringing people together with its unmistakable flavor and delightful textures.

Classic Caesar Salad with Anchovy-Infused Dressing Recipe