Grilled Caesar Salad adds a smoky twist to the classic Caesar by grilling the romaine lettuce, which imparts a delightful charred flavor that complements the creamy, tangy dressing perfectly. This method transforms the salad from a familiar side dish into an exciting and sophisticated entrée or side. The outer leaves of the romaine get crispy and slightly caramelized, while the inside remains cool and crisp. Topped with homemade Caesar dressing, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons, this salad is elevated into a robust dish that retains all the beloved flavors of a traditional Caesar while introducing a new layer of texture and taste.
Ingredients:
- 3 romaine lettuce hearts, halved lengthwise
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing, homemade or store-bought
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
- 2 anchovy fillets, minced (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Directions:
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure it’s hot before adding the lettuce to achieve nice grill marks.
- Prepare the Lettuce:
- Rinse the romaine halves and pat them dry. Brush the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. This helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.
- Grill the Romaine:
- Place the romaine halves cut-side down on the grill. Grill for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until grill marks form and the lettuce is slightly charred. Turn carefully and grill for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from the grill and let cool slightly for a more manageable temperature.
- Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle Caesar dressing over the grilled romaine halves. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and croutons evenly over the top. Add minced anchovies if using, for an extra punch of umami.
- Serve:
- Serve the grilled Caesar salad immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over. The lemon adds a fresh zing that complements the smoky, creamy flavors beautifully.
Grilled Caesar Salad is not just a dish but an experience, perfect for outdoor summer dinners or as a special touch to a traditional meal. This dish offers a wonderful way to enjoy the timeless taste of Caesar salad with an intriguing and flavorful update.
