Caesar Salad (on the Ides of March!)

Caesar salad is by far the favorite salad in my household.  When my kids were younger they called this a “crouton” salad- and intentionally targeted all of the homemade croutons in the serving bowl.  Now I don’t often add croutons- it really doesn’t need them.  Occasionally I will really mix things up a bit and add tomato, other vegetables, or grilled meat.   If you want to make this healthier be sure to use yogurt not sour cream and opt for lower fat mayonnaise (though I don’t recommend fat free).

Ironically this salad is not from Italy and has nothing to do with the Caesar we usually think of when we hear this name.  In fact this salad was first invented by Caesar Cardini in Tijuana,   Mexico.  On a very busy night he ran out of his usual side dish and had to get creative!

Caesar Salad Dressing

4 cups cleaned romaine lettuce (don’t discard the ribs)
½ cup croutons

Dressing ingredients:
1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
½ cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
Juice of one lemon
2 medium garlic cloves, pressed
1/8 tsp fresh ground pepper
Dash of Worcestershire sauce (or fish sauce)
1 TBSP olive oil

Combine all dressing ingredients at least 1 hour before serving and whisk together well.  If desired thin this with a little extra lemon juice.

When ready to serve toss all lettuce with desired amount of dressing.  Top with croutons and serve.