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Crispy Grilled Romaine Caesar Salad Recipe with Easy Parmesan Crisps

crispy grilled romaine caesar salad - featured image

A fresh and smoky twist on classic Caesar salad featuring grilled romaine lettuce and crunchy homemade Parmesan crisps, perfect for quick summer meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large heads romaine lettuce, halved lengthwise
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano recommended)
  • 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Croutons or additional crisps (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
  2. Rinse the romaine heads and pat dry thoroughly. Slice each head in half lengthwise, keeping the core intact.
  3. Brush the cut side of each romaine half generously with olive oil.
  4. Place the romaine halves cut-side down on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes until grill marks appear and edges start to brown.
  5. Flip carefully and grill the outside for 1-2 minutes until warm and slightly softened but still crunchy.
  6. While the romaine grills, preheat your oven to 400°F. On a parchment-lined baking sheet, spoon small mounds (~1 tablespoon each) of grated Parmesan spaced apart. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.
  7. Bake the Parmesan mounds for 5-7 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool to harden.
  8. In a bowl, whisk together Caesar dressing, minced garlic, lemon juice, anchovy paste (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste. Optionally add a teaspoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
  9. Place grilled romaine halves on plates, drizzle with dressing, and top with Parmesan crisps. Add extra cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook the romaine to avoid wilting; aim for a slight char with a crisp bite. Watch Parmesan crisps closely in the oven to prevent burning. For dairy-free or vegan options, substitute Parmesan with vegan cheese or toasted nuts and use vegan Caesar dressing. Keep dressing light to maintain crispness of lettuce.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled romaine, Caesar salad, Parmesan crisps, summer salad, smoky salad, easy salad recipe, grilled lettuce