Chef's Essential Tips

Dressing Tip: For a lighter dressing, skip the mayonnaise and substitute with more Greek yogurt.
Cucumber Prep: Chill the cucumbers before slicing to enhance their crispness and refreshing quality.
Lettuce Choice: Use fresh and crunchy romaine for the best texture; avoid limp or browning leaves.
Crouton Variation: Try using different types of bread, such as sourdough or whole grain, for added flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or chives for an aromatic boost to the salad.
Anchovies: If you're unsure about anchovies, try using capers instead for a similar umami flavor.

Essential Ingredients Selection

Cucumbers: Crisp and refreshing, cucumbers provide hydration and a light crunch that's essential for this salad. You can substitute English cucumbers if desired.
Romaine Lettuce: This leafy green adds a satisfying crunch and is ideal for Caesar salads due to its sturdy texture. Opt for fresh, vibrant leaves for the best flavor.
Parmigiano-Reggiano: This aged cheese adds a savory, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the salad. Freshly grated Parmesan is preferred for a richer experience.
Homemade Croutons: Crunchy croutons provide texture and absorb dressing beautifully, elevating the salad. They are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite seasonings.
Mayonnaise: This creamy base creates the richness in the dressing, giving the salad its characteristic silky texture. You can use a vegan alternative if desired.
Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess with a tangy twist, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise. It’s a healthier option that minimizes calories without compromising flavor.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens flavors and adds a welcome tang to the dressing, enhancing the overall freshness of the salad.
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce contributes depth with its umami notes, crucial for a Caesar dressing's complexity. A vegan version is available for those avoiding animal products.
Anchovy Fillets: Providing a classic caesar flavor, anchovies add a distinct umami kick. If you'd rather not use fish, nutritional yeast can be a substitute for a similar effect.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dressing with flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile. Adjust the amount based on personal preference.

Creating Your Masterpiece

Storing Leftovers:

If you have leftovers, store the salad and croutons separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents sogginess and allows you to enjoy the salad’s full texture the next day.

Adjusting Flavor:

After tossing, taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to enhance the flavors. This step is crucial because it allows you to customize the dish to fit your taste preferences.

Serving with Style:

For a beautiful presentation, serve the salad in a large bowl or individual plates. You can garnish with additional Parmesan or freshly cracked pepper if desired. This not only enhances visual appeal but also adds a final touch of flavor.

Adding Cheese and Croutons:

Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the salad and fold it in gently to mix. Finally, add the toasted croutons, being careful not to crush them, for that necessary crunch in the texture profile of your salad.

Tossing the Salad:

In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and chopped romaine lettuce. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the greens and toss gently to coat. This ensures each piece of lettuce and cucumber is bathed in the flavorful dressing, crucial for a harmonious dish.

Toasting the Croutons:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get the perfect golden croutons. Toss bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are crispy and golden brown.

Making the Dressing:

In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced anchovies, and garlic. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. This dressing is key to elevating your salad and providing that classic Caesar flavor.

Preparing the Vegetables:

Begin by washing the cucumbers and romaine lettuce thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers thinly to maximize their crunch factor and chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces. This preparation ensures an enjoyable eating experience with varied textures in every bite.

The Complete Guide to Mastering Cucumber Caesar Salad

Storing Leftovers:

If you have leftovers, store the salad and croutons separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents sogginess and allows you to enjoy the salad’s full texture the next day.

Adjusting Flavor:

Serving with Style:

Adding Cheese and Croutons:

Tossing the Salad:

Toasting the Croutons:

Making the Dressing:

Preparing the Vegetables:

Master Your Recipe

Prep the salad ingredients in advance but toss with dressing just before serving for optimal freshness.

Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, as different brands of mayonnaise can vary in saltiness.

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or seafood for a well-rounded meal.

If you have leftovers, store the salad and croutons separately to maintain texture.

Crisp Cucumber Caesar Salad with Creamy Dressing and Crunchy Croutons

Name: Crisp Cucumber Caesar Salad with Creamy Dressing and Crunchy Croutons
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: For the Salad:; 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced; 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup homemade croutons; For the Dressing:; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 anchovy fillets, minced (optional); 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Experience a refreshing twist on a classic favorite with our Cucumber Caesar Salad. This vibrant dish features crunchy cucumbers, savory Parmesan cheese, and tangy anchovy dressing, creating a delightful symphony of flavors that are both refreshing and satisfying. The sweet, crisp cucumbers contrast beautifully with the creamy, tangy dressing, while the homemade croutons add a satisfying crunch. Perfect for summer barbecues, light lunches, or as a side dish for elegant dinners, this salad evokes memories of sun-drenched picnics and joyous gatherings with loved ones. Every bite is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, making it a favorite for those seeking comfort without sacrificing freshness. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own when you crave something light and nourishing. Indulge in this Cucumber Caesar Salad today and let its flavorful personality brighten your day.

Prep Time

20 Minutes

Cook Time

10 Minutes

Total Time

30 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

For the Salad:

2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced

4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup homemade croutons

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons Greek yogurt

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

2 anchovy fillets, minced (optional)

1 clove garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and chopped romaine lettuce. Toss gently to mix.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced anchovies, and minced garlic until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Drizzle the dressing over the cucumber and lettuce mixture, then toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and gently fold it into the salad for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 6: To make the croutons, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut bread into cubes and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Step 7: Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10 minutes or until golden and crunchy.

Step 8: Once the croutons are ready, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.

Step 9: Add the homemade croutons to the salad and toss gently to combine.

Step 10: Serve immediately and enjoy this vibrant, refreshing salad!