Homemade Keto Caesar Salad (No Croutons)

Homemade Keto Caesar Salad (No Croutons)

A classic Caesar salad reimagined for the keto lifestyle – crisp, creamy, and completely grain-free.

Key Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary: Keto, Gluten-free, Low-carb

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or blender
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Garlic press (optional)
• Lemon juicer (optional)

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 large heads romaine lettuce (about 1kg/2.2lbs)
• 80g/⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese [Pecorino Romano works too]
• Fresh black pepper to taste

For the Keto Caesar Dressing

• 240ml/1 cup mayonnaise
• 30ml/2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 15ml/1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 30g/¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

1. Make the Dressing
   • Combine all dressing ingredients in a bowl or blender.
   • Whisk or blend until smooth and creamy.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning.

2. Prepare the Lettuce
   • Chop romaine into bite-sized pieces.
   • Wash thoroughly and dry completely (wet lettuce won’t hold dressing well).

3. Assemble the Salad
   • Place dried lettuce in a large bowl.
   • Add half the dressing and toss well.
   • Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
   • Add more dressing if needed.
   • Finish with fresh black pepper.

Crucial Tips

• Dressing Storage: Keeps in fridge for up to 5 days.
• Lettuce Must Be Dry: Use a salad spinner or paper towels.
• Don’t Overdress: Start with less, add more as needed.
• Temperature Matters: Room temperature dressing coats better.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using wet lettuce (causes watery dressing).
• Adding too much dressing at once.
• Not tasting and adjusting seasoning.
• Using pre-grated Parmesan (fresh tastes better).

Variations

• Add grilled chicken for protein.
• Include halved grape tomatoes.
• Top with crispy bacon bits.
• Add sliced avocado.
• Include soft-boiled eggs.

Storage

• Store undressed lettuce in a sealed container with paper towel.
• Keep dressing separate until serving.
• Dressed salad doesn’t store well – make fresh.

This recipe hits all the classic Caesar notes while keeping it keto-friendly. The key is in the proper ratio of dressing to lettuce and using fresh, quality ingredients. Remember, a great Caesar salad is all about balance – creamy dressing, crisp lettuce, and sharp Parmesan working together in perfect harmony.