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Easy Caesar Salad with Balsamic Dressing and Parmesan Croutons photo

Caesar Salad with Balsamic Dressing and Parmesan Croutons

This Caesar Salad is a flavor explosion! Crisp lettuce, tangy balsamic dressing, and crunchy Parmesan croutons make it irresistible.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 2 cups seasoned Italian bread cubes (focaccia works great)
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic Italian dressing (from above)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cups torn romaine lettuce
  • 2 cups iceberg lettuce chunks
  • 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1 cup pitted black olives
  • 2 large hard-boiled eggs (finely chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • Salad bowl
  • Whisk
  • Oven
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, finely chopped basil, and minced garlic. Whisk together until well combined and emulsified. Set aside.
  2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the seasoned Italian bread cubes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil and toss to coat. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese while warm.
  3. In a large salad bowl, combine the torn romaine lettuce, iceberg lettuce chunks, sliced red onion, and pitted black olives. Toss gently to mix.
  4. Add the finely chopped hard-boiled eggs to the salad. Drizzle the prepared balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
  5. Top the salad with homemade Parmesan croutons and the remaining grated Parmesan cheese. Give it one last gentle toss and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Store salad components separately to maintain freshness.
  • Prepare the dressing up to a week in advance for convenience.
  • Use kale or mixed greens for a different flavor.