Grilled Caesar Salad: A Smoky Twist on a Classic Favorite

Written by Sarah Gardner

Take your Caesar salad game up a notch with this grilled version that adds a smoky, caramelized edge to the crisp romaine and classic Caesar dressing. Perfect for summer BBQs or as a side that impresses, this recipe is simple, fast, and oh-so satisfying. The lightly charred lettuce contrasts beautifully with the tangy dressing, shaved Parmesan, and crunchy croutons, creating a flavor-packed experience that feels both familiar and fresh.

Grilled Caesar salad

Grilled Caesar Salad

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Tongs
  • Small Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Pastry Brush

Ingredients
  

For the Salad

  • 2 large heads of romaine lettuce halved lengthwise, cores intact
  • Olive oil for brushing
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Caesar Dressing

  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 garlic clove finely grated or minced
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 anchovy fillets mashed (optional, but recommended)
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings

  • 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup croutons homemade or store-bought
  • Optional: crispy bacon bits or grilled chicken for a heartier option

Instructions
 

Prep the Dressing

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, Parmesan, and mashed anchovies. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
    ingredients for Caesar dressing

Prepare the Romaine

  1. Rinse the romaine halves and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Brush the cut sides generously with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Grill the Lettuce

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the romaine halves cut-side down and grill for 1–2 minutes, or until grill marks form and the edges are lightly charred. Flip and grill for another 30 seconds on the rounded side. Remove from the grill and set aside.
    dark green romaine lettuce halves on a grill

Assemble the Salad

  1. Arrange the grilled romaine halves on a large platter. Drizzle with the Caesar dressing, then top with shaved Parmesan and croutons. Add bacon bits or grilled chicken if desired.

Serve

  1. Serve immediately while the romaine is slightly warm for the best flavor.

Pairings

Grilled Caesar Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins like steak, shrimp, or salmon. For a light, summery vibe, serve it alongside a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a lemony sparkling water.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different lettuce?

Romaine is best for grilling because its sturdy leaves hold up well to the heat. Avoid delicate greens like spinach or arugula.

2. What if I don’t have a grill?

No problem! Use a grill pan on your stovetop or even broil the lettuce briefly in your oven to achieve a similar char.

3. Are anchovies necessary in the dressing?

Anchovies add depth and that classic Caesar flavor, but you can skip them if you prefer or substitute with a dash of fish sauce.

4. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the dressing and toppings in advance, but grill the lettuce just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

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