Save to Pinterest Last summer, my sister showed up at my door with a garden crate full of cucumbers and declared we were having Caesar salad for lunch. I thought she'd lost her mind, but one bite changed everything about how I think of summer salads. The cool, crisp crunch against that familiar creamy dressing was somehow perfect.
I brought this to a potluck last month and watched three different people ask for the recipe. My friend Sarah actually texted me the next day saying her kids demanded it for dinner. Theres something about the familiar comfort of Caesar flavors meeting all that refreshing crunch that just works.
Ingredients
- English cucumber: The thinner skin and fewer seeds make them perfect for salads, and they stay incredibly crisp
- Croutons: Homemade ones transform this dish, but good store-bought ones work in a pinch
- Extra Parmesan: Freshly grated makes all the difference here, dont skip it
- Mayonnaise: Full-fat gives the dressing that luxurious restaurant-quality texture
- Fresh lemon juice: Bottled just doesnt have the same bright, cutting acidity
- Garlic: One clove is plenty, it mellows as the dressing sits
Instructions
- Prep the cucumbers:
- Slice them thinly and sprinkle with salt, letting them drain for fifteen minutes in a colander while you make the dressing.
- Whisk the dressing:
- Combine the mayonnaise, Parmesan, lemon juice, mustard, Worcestershire, garlic, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Toss and assemble:
- Gently coat the drained cucumber slices with dressing, then fold in any extras like tomatoes or onion.
- Finish with crunch:
- Add the croutons right before serving and top with a generous dusting of Parmesan.
Save to Pinterest This recipe has become my go-to for impromptu dinners, the kind where friends drop by and I need something impressive but effortless. Watching someone take that first surprised bite never gets old.
Making It Your Own
I love adding baby arugula for a peppery kick, or sometimes I'll throw in some radish slices for extra color. The base recipe is flexible enough that you can make it work with whatever needs using up from the fridge.
Make-Ahead Magic
The dressing keeps for a week in the fridge, and I've started making double batches just to have around. The cucumbers can be salted and drained up to four hours ahead, wrapped and refrigerated.
Serving Suggestions
This pairs beautifully with grilled fish or roasted chicken. The cool crunch balances out anything from the grill.
- Try adding grilled shrimp for a complete dinner
- A warm crusty bread on the side makes it feel more substantial
- Keep extra dressing handy at the table
Save to Pinterest Theres something deeply satisfying about taking a classic and making it entirely your own. This salad is proof that the best recipes often come from happy accidents.
Recipe FAQ
- → Why use cucumber instead of romaine?
Cucumbers offer superior crunch and natural hydration while absorbing the tangy Caesar dressing beautifully. They provide a lighter, more refreshing base than traditional romaine lettuce.
- → Should I salt the cucumber slices first?
Yes, sprinkling cucumber slices with salt and letting them sit for 15-20 minutes draws out excess moisture. This prevents the dressing from becoming watery and ensures the cucumbers stay crisp.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Store the dressing and prepared cucumber slices separately. Toss with dressing and add croutons just before serving to maintain optimal texture and prevent sogginess.
- → What protein options work best?
Grilled chicken or shrimp are excellent additions that complement the Caesar flavors without overpowering them. Both add substantial protein while keeping the dish light and fresh.
- → How do I make homemade croutons?
Toss cubed bread with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, turning once until golden and crispy. Homemade croutons offer superior flavor and texture.
- → Can I make a vegan version?
Substitute vegan mayonnaise for traditional mayonnaise, omit Parmesan and Worcestershire sauce, and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor profile.