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–+ servings

Creepy Caesar Salad

This dark-inspired Caesar Salad features crispy homemade croutons, a smoky anchovy dressing, and fresh romaine lettuce. The combination of bold flavors, crunchy textures, and a silky dressing creates a visually striking dish with an edgy, chaotic charm. Perfect for late-night bites or moody dinners that surprise with every bite.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Contemporary
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: 320kcal
Author: James Taylor
Servings: 4

Equipment

  • Chef's Knife
  • Frying Pan
  • Whisk
  • Big salad bowl

Ingredients

  • 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 anchovy fillets anchovy fillets or paste rinsed if using fillets
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 egg yolk egg yolk preferably at room temperature
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 cups bread cubes day-old or toasted bread works best
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Chop the bread into small cubes, then toss with a tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Fry in a pan over medium heat until golden and crispy, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove and set aside to cool.
  • In a big salad bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and egg yolk until smooth and creamy. This forms the bold, smoky dressing base.
  • Gently whisk the dressing over low heat if needed, until slightly thickened and velvety. Add grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
  • Add the chopped romaine lettuce to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat each leaf evenly with the smoky, tangy dressing.
  • Sprinkle the crispy croutons over the dressed lettuce, distributing evenly for crunch in every bite.
  • Finish by sprinkling extra Parmesan cheese on top, then give the salad a final gentle toss to combine all flavors. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrasting textures and bold flavors.

Notes

For an extra smoky flavor, toast the bread cubes until slightly charred before frying. Adjust the anchovy amount for more or less intensity. Serve immediately to keep the croutons crispy and the lettuce fresh.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 650mg | Potassium: 400mg | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 250mg | Iron: 3mg