Description
This Smoky Caesar Salad elevates the classic favorite with charred grilled lemons, crispy homemade croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing infused with a subtle smoky flavor. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or a light, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 large romaine lettuce hearts, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Homemade Croutons
- 4 cups day-old crusty bread, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Smoky Caesar Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp water (as needed)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Grilled Lemons
- 2 lemons, halved
- 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the croutons.
- Prepare croutons: Toss the cubed day-old bread with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt until evenly coated.
- Bake croutons: Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 12–15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the croutons are golden brown and crisp.
- Make smoky Caesar dressing: While the croutons bake, whisk together mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, finely grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add water gradually to achieve your desired dressing consistency.
- Prepare grilled lemons: Lightly brush the halved lemons with olive oil.
- Grill lemons: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Place lemon halves cut-side down and grill for 2–3 minutes until they develop light char marks and become fragrant.
- Assemble salad: In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with the smoky Caesar dressing, ensuring the leaves are well coated.
- Add croutons and cheese: Mix in the crispy homemade croutons and additional grated Parmesan cheese into the salad.
- Serve: Plate the salad and top with freshly cracked black pepper. Serve each portion with a grilled lemon half for squeezing over the salad to add extra smoky citrus flavor.
Notes
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon to the salad.
- Using day-old sourdough bread creates especially flavorful and sturdy croutons.
- Grilled lemons add a sweet, smoky depth that enhances the dressing’s flavor profile.
- Store the smoky Caesar dressing separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
