Description
A crisp and zesty Cucumber Caesar Salad combining cool, hydrating cucumbers with tangy, creamy Caesar dressing. This refreshing twist on a classic salad is quick to prepare, light yet satisfying, and perfect as a side dish or light main course. Loaded with fresh flavors, nutrients, and versatile enough for protein boosts or vegetarian adaptations.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 2 English or Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- ¼ cup shaved or grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup crunchy croutons (preferably homemade)
Caesar Dressing
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional for vegetarian variations)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes and Variations
- Extra shaved Parmesan cheese
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Toasted pine nuts
- Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for protein boost
- Diced avocado
- Red pepper flakes or hot sauce for spice
- Fresh dill, parsley, or mint for herbal freshness
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and thoroughly dry cucumbers and romaine lettuce. Thinly slice the cucumbers and chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces to keep them crisp and fresh.
- Make the Caesar Dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and anchovy paste. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the consistency as needed with olive oil or lemon juice.
- Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, gently toss the cucumbers and romaine lettuce with the Caesar dressing until evenly coated but not soggy.
- Add Cheese and Croutons: Sprinkle freshly grated or shaved Parmesan cheese over the salad, then add crunchy croutons for texture and an extra savory punch.
- Serve Immediately: Give the salad a final gentle toss and serve right away to enjoy the fresh, crisp textures and bold flavors at their best.
Notes
- Use seedless cucumbers to avoid excess moisture that can water down the salad.
- Dry lettuce and cucumbers completely for the best dressing adherence.
- Dressing tastes better after sitting for a few hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Make homemade croutons by toasting stale bread cubes with olive oil and garlic for superior crunch and flavor.
- Adjust dressing consistency gradually with olive oil or lemon juice to achieve the perfect creamy yet light texture.
- Store leftover salad undressed in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, and keep dressing separate until ready to serve.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to cucumbers and croutons.
- Serve chilled and avoid reheating; warm added proteins separately if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Cucumber Caesar Salad, refreshing salad, easy Caesar salad, healthy side dish, light salad, low calorie salad