Some dishes never go out of style, and the Caesar salad is one of them. It’s simple, fresh, and versatile enough to serve as a starter, side, or even a full meal when paired with protein. At Angry Crab Shack, we love bold flavors, and while seafood is our specialty, we know the importance of perfecting a classic salad to complement any dish. Making a Caesar salad at home doesn’t require a chef’s kitchen or hours of prep, it just takes a few fresh ingredients and a little know-how.

Start with Fresh Ingredients

The foundation of a great Caesar is crisp romaine lettuce. Skip the pre-bagged version if you can, and go for a whole head of romaine for maximum crunch. Parmesan cheese is another non-negotiable, it should be freshly grated or shaved, not the powdered kind. And don’t forget the bread. A rustic loaf cut into cubes makes the best croutons because it crisps beautifully in the oven.

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Mastering the Dressing

The dressing is where the magic happens. Traditional Caesar dressing uses egg yolk and anchovies, but you can make a simplified version at home with mayonnaise and anchovy paste. Both options deliver that creamy, tangy, savory punch that makes a Caesar salad irresistible. Whisk together garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, parmesan, and olive oil. If you’re hesitant about anchovies, try just a small amount of anchovy paste, it melts into the dressing and adds incredible depth of flavor.

Don’t Skip the Crunch

Store-bought croutons will work in a pinch, but homemade takes your salad to the next level. Toss slightly stale bread cubes in olive oil, salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder before baking them at 375°F until golden and crunchy. The result is a crouton that’s crisp on the outside but still has a little bite in the middle.

Putting It All Together

Once your components are ready, the assembly is quick. Tear the romaine into bite-sized pieces and toss lightly with dressing—just enough to coat without weighing down the lettuce. Add in the croutons, sprinkle with parmesan shavings, and finish with a crack of black pepper. To make it more of a meal, top your Caesar with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even grilled salmon for a seafood twist.

A Classic Worth Mastering

The Caesar salad is a staple for good reason. It’s fresh, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. When made with care, it feels just as special as any entrée. Whether you’re serving it alongside seafood, grilling up chicken, or enjoying it on its own, a homemade Caesar is proof that even simple dishes can be extraordinary. At Angry Crab Shack, we believe great food brings people together, and this timeless salad is the perfect way to elevate your table at home.

Author: Michael Chavez is kitchen development manager at Angry Crab Shack.