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Crispy Grilled Romaine Caesar Salad

crispy grilled romaine caesar salad - featured image

A smoky twist on classic Caesar salad featuring grilled romaine with crispy edges and a rich, creamy homemade dressing. Perfect for quick, flavorful meals or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large heads romaine lettuce, halved lengthwise
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For the Creamy Caesar Dressing:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • For the Topping:
  • 1 cup homemade or store-bought croutons
  • Extra Parmesan cheese for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C).
  2. Rinse and dry the romaine heads thoroughly. Cut each head in half lengthwise, keeping the core intact.
  3. Brush the cut side of the romaine with olive oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Place the romaine halves cut-side down on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes until grill marks appear and edges start to crisp.
  5. Flip the romaine and grill for another 1-2 minutes on the outside leaves to warm through without wilting.
  6. While the romaine grills, whisk together mayonnaise, Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Transfer the grilled romaine to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the creamy Caesar dressing.
  8. Sprinkle croutons and extra Parmesan cheese over the top.
  9. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

Preheat grill to medium-high to avoid burning. Brush romaine generously with olive oil to prevent sticking and encourage caramelization. Dressing can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. For dairy-free or vegan versions, substitute mayonnaise and Parmesan accordingly. Store grilled romaine and dressing separately if saving leftovers and reheat lettuce briefly before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled romaine, Caesar salad, creamy dressing, easy salad, smoky salad, grilled lettuce, homemade Caesar dressing