Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Garlic Croutons

Caesar Salad with Homemade Garlic Croutons

I was excited to try the creamy Caesar dressing, so I made a large Caesar salad topped with crunchy homemade garlic croutons. Crisp romaine, freshly grated Parmesan, and warm garlic croutons come together for a classic salad with bright flavor and satisfying texture. This simple recipe pairs well with grilled steak or a hearty casserole for a complete meal.

Caesar Salad with Homemade Garlic Croutons

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups French bread, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 tbsp garlic olive oil (add more if desired)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh Parmesan, grated
  • Creamy Caesar dressing (use your preferred recipe)

Caesar Salad with Homemade Garlic Croutons

How to Make a Caesar Salad with Homemade Garlic Croutons

Prepare the dressing first, using your favorite creamy Caesar dressing recipe.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray or brush with a little oil.

Make the croutons: Cut the bread into small cubes. Toss the cubes with the garlic olive oil, then add the minced garlic and season with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper. Mix with your hands so each piece is well coated.

Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake 15–20 minutes, turning once if needed, until the croutons are crisp and golden. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely before storing in an airtight container or using immediately.

Assemble the salad: Place the chopped romaine in a large bowl. Add the grated Parmesan and cooled garlic croutons. Drizzle with the creamy Caesar dressing and toss gently to coat the leaves evenly.

Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges if you like a touch of brightness. The salad is best enjoyed fresh so the croutons stay crunchy.

 

Caesar Salad with Homemade Garlic Croutons

Caesar Salad with Homemade Garlic Croutons

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Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 20
Total Time: 35
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 4
Author: Pam – For the Love of Cooking

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  • 2 cups French bread cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 tbsp garlic olive oil more if desired
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh Parmesan grated
  • Creamy Caesar dressing use preferred recipe

Instructions

  • Prepare the dressing: Make the creamy Caesar dressing following your chosen recipe.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
  • Make croutons: Cut bread into cubes, toss with garlic oil and minced garlic, season with salt and pepper, and mix to coat.
  • Bake the croutons on the prepared sheet for 15–20 minutes until golden and crisp. Cool completely before storing or using.
  • Assemble the salad: Combine romaine, Parmesan, and cooled croutons in a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat.
  • Serve at once with lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy.
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