Fresh cucumbers tossed with creamy homemade Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and Parmesan for a lighter take on the classic.
# What you'll need:
→ Salad Base
01 - 1 large English cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced into 1/8-inch rounds
02 - 1/4 cup croutons, homemade or store-bought
03 - 2 tablespoons extra Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated
04 - 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes (optional)
05 - 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
06 - 1/2 ripe avocado, diced (optional)
07 - 2 tablespoons crispy bacon, crumbled (optional)
08 - Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional)
→ Caesar Dressing
09 - 1/2 cup full-fat mayonnaise
10 - 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
11 - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
12 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
13 - 1 clove garlic, minced
14 - 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
15 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
16 - 1/8 teaspoon salt, or to taste
17 - 2 anchovy fillets, finely minced (optional)
18 - Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
# Method:
01 - Peel the English cucumber completely or create alternating stripes for texture. Slice into thin 1/8-inch rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline. For optimal crunch, sprinkle slices lightly with salt and place in a colander for 15 to 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
02 - Combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt in a medium bowl. Whisk vigorously until completely smooth and creamy. Add anchovy fillets or red pepper flakes if using. Adjust consistency with 1 to 2 teaspoons of water if dressing is too thick. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
03 - Place prepared cucumber slices in a large serving bowl. Pour dressing over cucumbers and toss gently to coat evenly. Add cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, bacon, or fresh herbs if desired, tossing gently to incorporate.
04 - Add croutons just before serving and toss gently once more. Transfer to individual plates or a serving bowl. Garnish with additional shaved Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately while croutons remain crisp. Top with grilled chicken or shrimp if adding protein.
