The holidays can be a time of making experimental recipes, but sometimes it’s best to stick to the classics. This Simple Caesar Salad uses Member’s Mark™ Sea Salt Grinder and Member’s Mark™ Black Pepper Grinder to make this elegant side salad shine.
This Simple Caesar salad pairs well with a variety of main courses, including:
Meat & Poultry Pairings
- Grilled or Roasted Chicken – Simple, juicy, and perfectly complements the salad’s flavors.
- Steak – A seared ribeye or filet mignon pairs well with the creamy dressing.
- Roast Pork Tenderloin – The mild flavor pairs beautifully with Caesar salad’s bold taste.
- Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast – A lighter option with complementary savory flavors.
Seafood Pairings
- Grilled Salmon – Rich, fatty salmon enhances the salad’s tangy dressing.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp – A perfect pairing for an elevated yet simple meal.
- Seared Scallops – Light, buttery scallops balance the salad’s crispness.
- Lemon-Baked Cod – Mild and flaky fish that complements Caesar salad’s bold flavors.
Vegetarian & Vegan Options
- Mushroom Risotto – Creamy and earthy, it pairs well with the salad’s tang.
- Eggplant Parmesan – The cheesy, savory flavors complement the salad’s fresh crunch.
- Grilled Portobello Mushrooms – A hearty, savory option for plant-based diets.
Pasta Pairings
- Spaghetti Aglio e Olio – Simple, garlic-infused pasta complements the salad’s richness.
- Fettuccine Alfredo – Creamy pasta pairs well with the tangy dressing for a luxurious meal.
- Penne Arrabbiata – Spicy tomato sauce provides a great contrast to the cool, creamy salad.
If you’re looking to make your Simple Caesar Salad a meal, check out some popular and creative add-ins:
Proteins
- Grilled Chicken – A classic choice for added heartiness.
- Shrimp – Lightly seasoned or grilled for a seafood twist.
- Salmon – Baked or grilled for rich flavor.
- Steak – Thinly sliced for a robust, savory addition.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs – Adds creaminess and protein.
- Bacon – Crispy bits for smoky crunch.
- Tofu – Crispy or grilled for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables
- Cherry Tomatoes – Adds a juicy burst of sweetness.
- Avocado – Creamy and rich, balancing the tangy dressing.
- Cucumbers – Refreshing crunch.
- Roasted Red Peppers – Sweet and slightly smoky.
- Artichoke Hearts – Briny and tender.
- Red Onions – Thinly sliced for a bit of bite.
Crunch & Texture
- Nuts – Almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts for extra crunch.
- Seeds – Sunflower or pumpkin seeds for nutty flavor.
- Crispy Chickpeas – Roasted with spices for a crunchy bite.
Cheese Variations
- Feta – Adds a tangy, salty kick.
- Goat Cheese – Creamy and slightly tart.
- Cheddar Shreds – For a sharper flavor twist.
Fruits
- Dried Cranberries or Raisins – Adds sweetness and chewiness.
- Pomegranate Seeds – Juicy and tart.
- Apple Slices – Crisp and sweet for a unique twist.
Simple Caesar Salad
The holidays can be a time of making experimental recipes, but sometimes it's best to stick to the classics. This Simple Caesar Salad uses Member’s Mark™ Sea Salt Grinder and Member’s Mark™ Black Pepper Grinder to make this elegant side salad shine. To make it a meal, just add some grilled chicken or shrimp!
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 2 small Garlic cloves, minced (1 tsp)
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp Fresh lemon juice
- 1½ tsp Red wine vinegar
- ⅓ cup Member's Mark™ Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- ½ tsp Member's Mark™ Sea Salt Grinder, or to taste
- ⅛ tsp Member's Mark™ Black Pepper Grinder, plus more to serve
For the Salad
- 1 large Head romaine lettuce
- ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded or shaved
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, dijon, Worcestershire, lemon juice and red wine vinegar.
- Slowly drizzle in Member's Mark™ Extra Virgin Olive Oil while whisking constantly.
- Whisk in ½ tsp Member’s Mark™ Sea Salt Grinder and ⅛ tsp Member’s Mark™ Black Pepper Grinder, or season to taste. Set aside.
- Rinse, dry and chop or tear the romaine into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large serving bowl and sprinkle generously with shredded parmesan cheese, croutons, and Member’s Mark™ Black Pepper Grinder. Drizzle with caesar dressing and toss gently until lettuce is evenly coated.
