Cheesecake Factory-Style Caesar Salad

This version swaps industrial seed oils and refined sugars for whole-food fats and organic produce, delivering a cleaner flavor.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large head organic romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1/4 cup shaved organic parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup avocado oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (refined sugar-free)
  • 1 tsp capers, finely minced
  • 2 anchovy fillets, mashed (optional)
  • 1 cup sourdough bread cubes toasted in 1 tsp avocado oil

Clean swaps

How we upgrade the restaurant version with better ingredients.

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Shop the clean pantry

Reorder the shelf-stable staples for this recipe.

What you'll need

  • Salad spinner — Dries greens so dressing clings instead of pooling at the bottom.
  • Mandoline slicer — Uniform thin slices of fennel, cucumber, and radish in seconds.
  • Large wood salad bowl — Season it — oil from dressings builds flavor in the wood over time.

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together avocado oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and capers.
  2. Whisk in the mashed anchovies (if using) until well emulsified.
  3. Place chopped organic romaine lettuce into a large bowl.
  4. Pour the dressing over the lettuce and toss until all leaves are coated.
  5. Distribute toasted sourdough cubes and shaved parmesan over the top.
  6. Serve immediately while the lettuce remains crisp.

FAQ

Can I use another type of oil besides avocado?

Yes, you can use other clean fats like olive oil or coconut oil as alternatives, but avocado oil is preferred for its high smoke point and flavor enhancement.

Is it necessary to use anchovy fillets?

No, the anchovy fillets are optional. They add a savory depth of flavor, but you can omit them if desired or replace with another umami source like soy sauce or nutritional yeast.

How long should I toast the sourdough bread cubes?

Toast the bread cubes until they are lightly golden and crispy, which typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).

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