Grilled Caesar Salad Charred Romaine (Print Version)

Smoky grilled romaine halves charred, tossed in creamy Caesar, topped with crisp croutons and shaved Parmesan.

# What to Use:

→ Romaine

01 - 2 large romaine hearts, halved lengthwise

→ Dressing

02 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
03 - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
04 - 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
05 - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 4 anchovy fillets, mashed (optional for vegetarian)
08 - 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
09 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Croutons & Toppings

10 - 1 cup rustic bread, cut into bite-sized cubes
11 - 2 tablespoons olive oil (for croutons)
12 - 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan, for topping

# How to Prepare:

01 - Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
02 - Brush romaine halves lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
03 - Place romaine halves cut-side down on the grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until slightly charred but not wilted. Remove and set aside.
04 - Toss bread cubes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill them on a tray or in a basket for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until crisp and golden.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, mashed anchovies (if using), and grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
06 - Arrange grilled romaine halves on a platter. Drizzle with Caesar dressing.
07 - Sprinkle grilled croutons and shaved Parmesan over the top.
08 - Serve immediately while the romaine is warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Charring romaine gives Caesar salad an unexpectedly bold, smoky dimension—it, s like a secret trick for impressing guests&.
  • This method comes together fast, yet it feels elevated and special thanks to all the sizzle and crunch&.
02 -
  • The first time I grilled croutons, I wandered off and came back to carbon cubes—keep an eye on them, as they brown fast&.
  • Letting the dressing mellow for a few minutes blends the flavors, making the garlic and anchovy less sharp and more harmonious&.
03 -
  • Always dry the romaine leaves thoroughly after washing to get that perfect char instead of steam—I use a dish towel and patience&.
  • Earthy anchovy paste blends in faster than fillets, giving richness without any evidence left behind on the plate&.
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