The Caesar salad, often considered a quintessential dish of American and international cuisine, has a rich history that might surprise many. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t owe its name to the Roman dictator, nor does it have Italian origins, nor was it invented in the United States. This classic salad actually originated in Mexico in 1924, specifically at the Hotel Caesar’s in Tijuana, managed by the Italian brothers Caesar and Alex Cardini.
While various theories exist about its creation, there is consensus that the original recipe did not include chicken. The addition of chicken to the salad occurred in the 1940s to make it more substantial, and today, it’s almost always present when ordering a Caesar salad. This version, presented on the centenary of its creation, includes chicken, and to learn how to prepare it, you simply need to watch the video above. If you’re not sure how to grill a chicken breast to perfection, we’ve provided some tips to ensure it remains juicy.
Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
For approximately 4 people (as a light starter or side dish)
Salad:
- 1 head of romaine lettuce
- 1 grilled chicken breast
Dressing:
- 1 garlic clove
- 5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 anchovy fillet
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- Finely grated Parmesan cheese
Croutons:
- 2 thick slices of bread (from a loaf)
- 2 garlic cloves
- Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing:
- Heat the olive oil for the dressing over very low heat.
- Add the crushed garlic cloves and sauté them gently for five minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Make the Dressing:
- Crush the anchovy fillet with a fork and place it in a bowl.
- Add the egg yolk.
- Gradually pour in the oil without the garlic while stirring with a whisk or fork.
- Finish the Dressing:
- Once a creamy texture forms, add the lemon juice and mix.
- Taste and adjust for salt and acidity.
- Prepare the Croutons:
- Rub the bread slices with garlic and olive oil.
- Toast them in an air fryer until golden brown. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can toast the bread in a toaster, rub it with garlic, and drizzle it with a little oil. Then, cut the bread into cubes.
- Tip: If you’re short on time, use store-bought croutons.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Cut the grilled chicken breast into cubes.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Tear the lettuce into bite-sized pieces, discarding the tougher parts.
- Place it in a large bowl and mix it with the chicken and about ¾ of the dressing.
- Add Parmesan:
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and mix again.
- Serve:
- Top with the prepared croutons, the remaining dressing, and a little more Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- For added convenience, you can use store-bought croutons or pre-cooked chicken.
Conclusion
The Caesar salad, despite its widespread popularity, has roots that trace back to a specific moment in culinary history in Tijuana, Mexico. Its journey from a simple salad to a beloved international dish reflects the evolving tastes and preferences of diners over the past century. Whether enjoyed as a light starter or a satisfying main course, the Caesar salad continues to hold its place as a timeless classic on menus around the world.