Mary Berry's Caesar Salad Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad is a classic twist on the popular dish we all know and love, often enjoyed as a light meal or a savory side. Renowned British chef Mary Berry, celebrated for her elegance and mastery of both traditional and modern cuisine, brings her own touch to this iconic salad, focusing on rich, homemade flavors. A hallmark of Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad is her commitment to fresh ingredients, perfectly balanced textures, and, of course, a distinctive homemade Caesar dressing.

Unlike many store-bought versions, her dressing is creamy yet tangy, with a depth of flavor thanks to ingredients like garlic, anchovies, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. The salad itself includes crisp Romaine lettuce, croutons that are lightly seasoned and toasted to a golden crisp, and a sprinkling of parmesan cheese. What sets her recipe apart is its attention to detail – the garlic in the dressing is roasted for a mellow, sweet flavor, and the croutons are homemade, ensuring each bite is bursting with freshness and depth.

Berry’s version also embraces the versatility of Caesar salad, where it can stand alone as a light lunch or dinner, or serve as an elegant side dish accompanying a main course like grilled chicken or fish.

Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients, which are divided into the salad base, dressing, and croutons:

For The Salad

Romaine lettuce: Fresh, crisp Romaine hearts work best for this salad. The crunch is key to balancing the creamy dressing.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan provides a salty and nutty flavor that enriches the salad. Avoid pre-grated cheese for the best texture and taste.
Croutons: These are homemade in Mary’s recipe. A few slices of thick white bread are ideal for creating croutons that are crunchy but not overly hard.

For The Dressing

Garlic: 2-3 cloves, finely minced or roasted for a mild, fragrant taste.
Anchovy fillets: These bring an essential umami richness and complexity to the dressing. Many traditional Caesar salad recipes use anchovies, and Mary Berry stays true to this.
Dijon mustard: A teaspoon adds a subtle tang and depth.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for that perfect balance of acidity.
Egg yolk: To create the creaminess of the dressing, egg yolks are emulsified with the other ingredients. Some people may prefer to use pasteurized eggs for safety.
Olive oil: This creates the base of the creamy dressing, contributing both richness and smoothness.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds an extra layer of flavor, enhancing the depth and complexity.
Salt and pepper: For seasoning the dressing to taste.

For The Croutons

Bread: A good-quality white bread is preferred, and it should be cut into cubes.
Olive oil: For drizzling on the bread cubes to ensure an even toasting.
Salt and pepper: To season the croutons.

Equipment Needed

Making Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad is relatively straightforward, but there are a few key pieces of equipment that will help ensure the process goes smoothly and the results are perfectly executed:

Baking tray or sheet: To bake the homemade croutons.
Large mixing bowl: For tossing the lettuce and croutons together with the dressing.
Blender or food processor: This is ideal for emulsifying the Caesar dressing, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can whisk the dressing by hand, but a blender ensures a more consistent texture.
Whisk: If you’re not using a blender, you’ll need a good whisk for combining the dressing ingredients.
Grater: For freshly grating the parmesan cheese.
Knife and chopping board: To chop the lettuce and bread for the croutons.
Small saucepan: For gently toasting the garlic if you prefer a roasted garlic dressing.
Tongs or salad servers: For tossing the salad without bruising the lettuce.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad

Here’s a step-by-step guide to recreating Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad at home:

Step 1: Make The Croutons

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Cut the bread into small cubes, about 1 cm in size.
Drizzle olive oil over the bread cubes, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Spread the cubes out on a baking tray, and season with salt and pepper.
Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, making sure to toss halfway through to ensure even crisping.
Once done, remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare The Dressing

In a small pan, gently toast the garlic over low heat (if using fresh garlic). This will take about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Alternatively, you can use roasted garlic for a more mellow flavor.
In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic, anchovy fillets, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, egg yolk, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Begin blending or whisking while slowly drizzling in the olive oil until the dressing becomes thick and emulsified.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon juice, salt, or pepper as needed.

Step 3: Assemble The Salad

Wash and thoroughly dry the Romaine lettuce. Tear it into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large mixing bowl.
Add the croutons to the lettuce, then pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Finally, grate a generous amount of parmesan cheese over the salad, and give it one last gentle toss to distribute the cheese.

Step 4: Serve

Serve immediately for the best texture, ensuring the croutons remain crisp and the lettuce stays fresh.

Tips And Tricks

Use fresh, quality ingredients: The success of this recipe relies heavily on the freshness of the lettuce, the quality of the parmesan, and the authenticity of the anchovies.
Make ahead of time: If you want to save time, you can prepare the dressing and croutons ahead of time. Just keep the dressing in the fridge for up to 3 days, and store the croutons in an airtight container.
Add protein: To turn this salad into a full meal, you can add grilled chicken, bacon strips, or even seared shrimp for a delicious protein boost.
Don’t skip the garlic: Whether you’re roasting it or using fresh, garlic gives the dressing its signature flavor. Roasted garlic gives a milder, sweeter flavor, while fresh garlic provides a punchier bite.
Customize your croutons: If you prefer a different kind of bread, feel free to experiment with sourdough or whole grain, although a classic white loaf gives the best texture.
For a smoother dressing: If you’re worried about raw egg yolk, consider using pasteurized eggs or replacing them with mayonnaise, though the traditional recipe does use egg for a silky texture.

Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad is a refined yet simple take on a beloved classic. The combination of crisp lettuce, crunchy homemade croutons, and a rich, creamy dressing makes this salad an unforgettable treat. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors, where every component plays its part – the croutons add crunch, the lettuce provides freshness, and the dressing ties everything together with its creamy, umami-packed tang.

While there are countless variations of Caesar salad out there, Mary Berry’s approach stands out for its emphasis on quality ingredients and a homemade dressing that elevates the dish to something truly special. Whether you’re making it as a side or a light main, this salad is bound to impress with its perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad

Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad is a timeless classic, renowned for its crisp freshness, creamy dressing, and crispy croutons. However, sometimes it’s nice to mix things up a bit and introduce some twists to this beloved dish. Here are some easy variations to take your Caesar Salad to new heights:

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

A popular variation that brings a savory twist to the dish. By adding grilled chicken breast slices, you’re turning the salad into a more substantial, protein-packed meal. The smoky, charred flavor from the chicken enhances the creamy dressing, making each bite feel more satisfying. For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice before grilling.
Vegetarian Caesar Salad

If you’re looking to skip the meat, a vegetarian Caesar Salad can be just as delicious. Simply swap the classic chicken or bacon for crispy roasted chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, satisfying texture. For an extra boost of flavor, sprinkle some Parmesan or nutritional yeast on top for that familiar umami taste.
Seafood Caesar Salad

For a touch of elegance, try incorporating seafood into your Caesar salad. Grilled shrimp or seared scallops make for fantastic additions, offering a delicate sweetness that pairs perfectly with the rich, tangy dressing. A drizzle of lemon juice over the seafood will elevate the freshness and complement the creamy elements of the salad.
Avocado Caesar Salad

Add a creamy, buttery texture to your salad by including slices of ripe avocado. The natural richness of the avocado will complement the tangy Caesar dressing while providing a velvety mouthfeel. This variation works especially well for those seeking a plant-based option without sacrificing flavor.
Pasta Caesar Salad

To make the salad heartier, you can toss in some cooked pasta, such as fusilli or penne. This transforms your salad into a more filling dish while still maintaining all the crispy, crunchy elements of the traditional Caesar. Pasta absorbs the dressing beautifully, creating a comforting fusion of flavors that’s sure to please.
Roasted Vegetables Caesar Salad

For a roasted variation, try adding roasted vegetables like butternut squash, beets, or even carrots. These vegetables, when roasted, develop a natural sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the savory Caesar dressing. Plus, they add vibrant color to the salad, making it both visually appealing and full of flavor.
Bacon Caesar Salad

Bacon is a classic addition to Caesar salads, adding a delightful crunch and smoky flavor. For this variation, crispy bacon bits or even bacon-wrapped croutons can be sprinkled over the top of your salad for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy dressing. For an extra punch, try adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze to tie everything together.

Each of these variations keeps the integrity of the traditional Caesar Salad while adding something new and exciting to the table. Whether you’re craving something hearty, light, or even indulgent, there’s a variation to suit every palate.

Storing Leftovers

There’s nothing better than having leftovers from a delicious Caesar Salad, but the key to preserving its freshness lies in the proper storage method. Since Caesar Salad contains delicate greens, creamy dressing, and often perishable ingredients like grilled chicken or bacon, it requires a little attention when storing.

Separating Components

The first rule for storing leftovers is to keep the dressing separate from the salad. If you mix the dressing into the salad and then store it, the greens will quickly wilt, and the croutons will become soggy. By keeping the dressing in an airtight container and the salad components in a separate bowl or bag, you can preserve each element’s freshness.
Storing Greens and Croutons

To store the greens, place them in a clean, dry container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. This helps keep the leaves crisp for a longer period. You can also use a salad spinner to remove any moisture from the greens before storing them. As for croutons, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay crunchy for a few days but lose their texture if left in the fridge.
Leftover Chicken or Bacon

If you have leftover grilled chicken or crispy bacon, store them in separate airtight containers. Both chicken and bacon should be eaten within a couple of days to ensure freshness. Store them in the fridge and reheat gently in a pan or microwave before adding to the salad.
Refrigeration

Caesar Salad leftovers should ideally be consumed within 2 to 3 days. While the dressing may stay fresh for a longer period (up to 5 days in the fridge), the vegetables and croutons should be eaten as soon as possible for the best texture and flavor.
Reviving the Salad

If the salad has been sitting for a day or two and the greens have wilted slightly, you can refresh them by adding a bit of extra dressing or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Toss gently to rehydrate the leaves and restore some of the freshness.

With these simple steps, you can enjoy your Caesar Salad leftovers without sacrificing taste or texture, making sure nothing goes to waste.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad?

Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of foods to create a balanced, satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side or as the main attraction, here are some great pairing ideas:

Grilled Meats

Caesar Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats such as steak, chicken, or lamb. The smoky charred flavors from the grill complement the creamy, tangy dressing of the Caesar Salad, while the salad provides a refreshing contrast. A grilled chicken breast or a juicy steak will make for a well-rounded, protein-rich meal.
Roasted Fish

Light, flaky fish like salmon, cod, or trout works beautifully with a Caesar Salad. The fish adds a delicate flavor that balances the bold dressing, making it an elegant and satisfying pairing. Grilled or pan-seared fish with a squeeze of lemon makes for an elevated and light meal.
Garlic Bread or Artisan Breads

For a comforting pairing, serve your Caesar Salad alongside some garlic bread or crusty artisan bread. The crispy texture of the bread complements the crunchiness of the croutons while adding an aromatic garlicky flavor that enhances the salad. You can also dip the bread in extra Caesar dressing for an indulgent treat.
Roasted Vegetables

Pairing roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, peppers, and sweet potatoes, with Caesar Salad adds a hearty, nutritious element to the meal. The sweetness of the roasted vegetables contrasts nicely with the tangy dressing, and the vegetables’ tender texture provides a satisfying contrast to the crispy greens.
Pasta Dishes

If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, serving your Caesar Salad alongside a simple pasta dish works wonders. A creamy pasta like fettucine alfredo or a tomato-based spaghetti pairs nicely, with the salad offering a refreshing counterpoint to the rich pasta. The crunch of the salad and the pasta’s comforting texture create a balanced meal.
Fruit-Based Dishes

For a lighter, more refreshing contrast, pair your Caesar Salad with a fruit-based dish. A citrus salad with oranges, grapefruit, and pomegranate or a fruit platter can bring a burst of sweetness to balance the salad’s savory notes. You can even add some berries to the salad itself for an interesting sweet-savory combination.
Cheese Platters

If you’re hosting a gathering or looking for something casual to pair with your salad, a cheese platter with soft cheeses (brie, goat cheese) and firm cheeses (aged cheddar, gouda) can complement the tangy Caesar dressing. Pair with nuts, olives, and a glass of crisp white wine, and you’ve got an easy, sophisticated pairing.

By pairing Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad with complementary dishes, you can create a satisfying and diverse spread that caters to all tastes.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad remains a favorite in many homes and restaurants due to its simple yet elegant balance of crisp lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons. With the ability to customize it by adding grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables, the salad adapts to nearly every palate. Whether you’re preparing it as a side dish, transforming it into a main course, or enjoying it as a stand-alone snack, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this classic dish.

When storing leftovers, the key is separation-keep the dressing separate from the greens to maintain their freshness. As for what to pair with your Caesar Salad, the possibilities are endless, from grilled meats to fruit-based side dishes.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad?

Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad features a fresh mix of crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy homemade croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing. The dressing typically combines ingredients like mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic, anchovies, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard, creating a rich and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the salad’s textures. The addition of crispy bacon and extra grated Parmesan can elevate the dish further.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad In Advance?

While the dressing and croutons can be made ahead of time and stored separately, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness and crispness of the lettuce. If the salad sits for too long, the dressing may cause the lettuce to wilt. However, you can prepare all the components and store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours for convenience.

What Is The Secret To Making The Best Caesar Dressing For Mary Berry’s Recipe?

The key to making a great Caesar dressing for Mary Berry’s recipe is balancing the richness of the mayonnaise with the sharpness of Dijon mustard and the umami flavor from anchovies and Parmesan cheese. You should blend the ingredients until smooth, ensuring the garlic doesn’t overpower the dressing. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness, while a dash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the savory depth of the dressing.

Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Caesar Salad Recipe