17 Oct Classic Caesar Salad from Scott Woolley’s Cookbook
Cooking for the Family: Scott Woolley’s Caesar Salad
Creamy, garlicky, salty, and crunchy—Scott Woolley’s Caesar salad is a delicious staple that has won hearts worldwide. Now widely celebrated and found in most Italian restaurants, it serves as the perfect starter to any favorite pasta dish.
The rich garlic and creamy dressing pairs beautifully with a lovely glass of red wine and can even transform into a main dish with the addition of diced grilled chicken. For Caesar salad lovers, this timeless classic never goes out of style.
Wherefore Art Thou, Caesar?
The illustrious journey of the Caesar salad began nearly 100 years ago, credited to Cesare Cardini, an Italian restaurateur and chef. Legend has it that Cardini crafted this iconic dish on the spot at his restaurant in Tijuana, Mexico, during a bustling July Fourth celebration when the kitchen ran low on supplies.
With fresh ingredients on hand, Cardini took to his customers’ tables, mixing a salad that quickly captivated their palates. This tableside spectacle soon made its way to Hollywood, where Cardini opened additional restaurants on the West Coast.
Originally made with whole romaine leaves, coddled egg, and Italian olive oil, the salad encouraged patrons to lift the leaves and enjoy them as they were. Over the years, the recipe evolved to include lime, garlic, and house-made dressings, eventually leading to bottled versions for eager customers.
Caesar, Now
Today, Caesar salads come in countless variations. From whole leaves and croutons to twists like lemon instead of lime, anchovies, and bacon, the possibilities are endless.
In Scott Woolley’s kitchen, you have the freedom to craft your Caesar just the way you like it—whether that’s a creamy dressing, a vinaigrette, or a blend of both. With so many variations to explore, don’t hesitate to mix and match ingredients until you find your perfect combination.
For an extra flavor boost, try mixing your salad in a large wooden bowl and rubbing a clove of garlic along the inside before adding the dressing. This simple hack adds a delightful garlic essence that elevates the entire dish.
Caesar Hack
If you’re in a pinch and need a quick meal solution, consider jazzing up a store-bought dressing. Just blend it with a bit of garlic, lemon or lime juice, pepper, or even a splash of mustard or hot sauce for a personalized touch. With so many available brands, keeping a spare bottle at home can save the day.
While homemade dressing might outshine the bottled varieties, there are still decent options on the market.
Caesar for the Win
Despite its many iterations, the essence of the Caesar salad remains intact. Customize it to suit your guests by offering individual bowls with different toppings.
Whether as a starter or a main dish, Scott Woolley’s Caesar salad pairs wonderfully with Italian cuisine, Mexican fare, pizza, BBQ, or any meal you desire. Embrace your creativity, and don’t be afraid to try something new each time. This salad is versatile enough to adapt to your tastes!
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