Cool cucumber slices tossed with tangy Caesar dressing, Parmesan, and crispy croutons for a refreshing modern take.
# Ingredient List:
→ Salad Components
01 - 1 large English cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced into 1/8-inch rounds
02 - 1/4 cup croutons, homemade or store-bought
03 - 2 tablespoons extra Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for garnish
04 - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
05 - 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
06 - 1/2 ripe avocado, diced (optional)
07 - 2 tablespoons crispy bacon, crumbled (optional)
08 - Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional)
→ Caesar Dressing
09 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise, full-fat recommended
10 - 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
11 - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
12 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
13 - 1 clove garlic, minced
14 - 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
15 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
16 - 1/8 teaspoon salt, or to taste
17 - 2 anchovy fillets, finely minced (optional for classic flavor)
18 - Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for spicy variation)
→ Optional Protein Additions
19 - Grilled chicken breast slices
20 - Grilled shrimp, seasoned
# How-To Steps:
01 - Peel the English cucumber completely or create alternating stripes for visual appeal. Slice into thin 1/8-inch rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline. For optimal texture, sprinkle cucumber slices lightly with salt and place in a colander for 15 to 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
02 - In a medium mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt. Whisk vigorously until completely smooth and creamy. For classic Caesar flavor, add minced anchovy fillets. For spicy variation, incorporate red pepper flakes. If dressing consistency is too thick, gradually whisk in 1 to 2 teaspoons of water until desired thickness is achieved. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
03 - Place prepared cucumber slices in a large salad bowl. Drizzle with prepared Caesar dressing and gently toss until cucumbers are evenly coated. If using optional ingredients such as cherry tomatoes, red onion, diced avocado, crumbled bacon, or fresh herbs, add them now and toss lightly to distribute.
04 - Add croutons just before serving to maintain crispness. Gently toss to incorporate. Transfer salad to individual serving plates or a decorative serving bowl. Garnish generously with additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a grinding of fresh black pepper. If adding grilled chicken or shrimp, arrange on top as final garnish. Serve immediately while cucumbers remain crisp and croutons retain their crunch.
