Creepy Caesar Salad
The Creepy Caesar Salad combines crunchy romaine lettuce with a smoky, salty dressing made from anchovy paste, garlic, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Topped with Parmesan and crispy croutons, it offers a bold flavor profile with a satisfying, crisp texture and a slightly sinister vibe. This quick, customizable salad is perfect for adding a daring twist to a classic dish.
Equipment
- Whisk
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Toasting Pan
Ingredients
- 2 tsp anchovy paste Salty, umami depth
- 3 cloves garlic Smash fresh for best aroma
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard Adds tang and emulsifies
- 2 tbsp lemon juice Bright, zesty punch
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise Creamy base
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Sharp, nutty flavor
- 1 head Romaine lettuce Crisp, fresh
- 1 cup croutons Golden and crunchy
Instructions
- Peel and smash the garlic cloves to release their aroma, then set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the anchovy paste, smashed garlic, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until well combined. You should notice a vibrant, tangy aroma as everything melds.
- Add the mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese to the bowl, whisking until the dressing is smooth and creamy, with a slightly cheesy, pungent scent.
- Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces, then add them to the bowl.
- Toss the lettuce in the dressing, ensuring each leaf gets coated in the bold, salty sauce. The leaves should glisten and feel slightly sticky from the dressing.
- Toast the croutons in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Shake the pan occasionally to prevent burning and listen for a gentle sizzle.
- Sprinkle the toasted croutons over the dressed lettuce, then add more Parmesan on top for extra flavor and crunch.
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or chill for 15 minutes if you prefer a colder, more melded flavor. The final dish should be vibrant, with crisp leaves coated in a savory, slightly sinister dressing, topped with crunchy croutons.
