Mary Berry Caesar Salad Recipe

This Mary Berry Caesar Salad is a fresh, well-balanced take on the classic favourite, focusing on crisp lettuce, a smooth, creamy dressing, and simple, high-quality ingredients. It feels light yet satisfying, making it ideal as a starter, a light lunch, or a side dish for roasted chicken or grilled fish. The flavours are clean and confident—salty Parmesan, gentle garlic, and a tangy dressing that coats the leaves without overpowering them. Best of all, it comes together quickly, making it practical for everyday meals as well as entertaining.

This version stays true to traditional Caesar flavours while keeping the method simple and approachable.

What Is Mary Berry Caesar Salad?

Mary Berry Caesar Salad is a classic green salad made with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, shaved Parmesan, and a creamy dressing with garlic, lemon, and anchovy for depth. Unlike heavy versions, this salad keeps the dressing light and well-balanced, allowing each ingredient to stand out clearly.

Other Popular Mary Berry Recipes

• Mary Berry Waldorf Salad
• Mary Berry Sausage Casserole
• Mary Berry Fruit Salad
• Mary Berry Mediterranean Salad

Why This Recipe Is Worth Trying

• Crisp, fresh texture – Romaine lettuce stays crunchy
• Smooth, well-balanced dressing – Creamy without being heavy
• Quick to prepare – Ready in minutes
• Classic flavours – Familiar and reliable
• Versatile serving options – Works as a side or main base

Essential Ingredients to Make Mary Berry Caesar Salad

• Romaine lettuce – 2 large heads, washed and chopped
• Parmesan cheese – 50 g, finely shaved
• White bread – 2 thick slices, cubed
• Olive oil – 3 tablespoons

For the dressing:

• Egg yolk – 1 large
• Garlic clove – 1, finely crushed
• Anchovy fillets – 2, finely chopped
• Dijon mustard – 1 teaspoon
• Lemon juice – 1½ tablespoons
• Olive oil – 4 tablespoons
• Black pepper – to taste

Handy Kitchen Tools for Best Results

• Large salad bowl
• Small mixing bowl or jug
• Whisk
• Sharp knife
• Chopping board
• Frying pan (for croutons)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mary Berry Caesar Salad

• Prepare the croutons – Toss bread cubes with olive oil and toast in a pan until golden and crisp.
• Make the dressing base – Whisk egg yolk, garlic, anchovies, mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.
• Add the oil gradually – Whisk in olive oil slowly to create a creamy dressing.
• Season lightly – Add black pepper and taste before adjusting.
• Prepare the lettuce – Place chopped romaine into a large bowl.
• Dress the salad – Spoon dressing over the leaves and toss gently to coat.
• Finish the salad – Add croutons and shaved Parmesan just before serving.

What I Got Wrong (And How I Fixed It)

• Added dressing too early – Dressing just before serving kept lettuce crisp.
• Overused anchovies – Using less gave better balance.
• Croutons too dark – Lower heat prevented bitterness.
• Overmixed the salad – Gentle tossing avoided bruised leaves.

Healthier Version of Mary Berry Caesar Salad

• Use less dressing – Keeps flavours lighter
• Add grilled chicken breast – Makes it a balanced meal
• Bake croutons instead of frying – Reduces oil
• Increase lettuce quantity – Adds volume without heaviness

Ingredient Substitutions for Mary Berry Caesar Salad

• Greek yogurt instead of egg yolk – Lighter dressing option
• Sourdough bread for croutons – Adds extra crunch
• Vegetarian anchovy alternative – Suitable for meat-free diets
• Lime juice instead of lemon – Slightly sharper finish

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve With Mary Berry Caesar Salad

• Grilled chicken or prawns – Turns it into a main
• Roast chicken – Complements the creamy dressing
• Garlic bread – Works well for casual meals
• Soup starter – Balances a light lunch

Expert Tips to Make a Perfect Mary Berry Caesar Salad

• Use dry lettuce – Prevents watery dressing
• Whisk oil slowly – Creates a smooth emulsion
• Taste as you go – Anchovies vary in saltiness
• Add croutons last – Keeps them crisp
• Serve immediately – Best texture and flavour
• Use good Parmesan – Makes a noticeable difference

Creative Ways to Customize Mary Berry Caesar Salad

• Add crispy bacon pieces – Adds savoury crunch
• Use charred lettuce – Introduces smoky notes
• Sprinkle toasted pine nuts – Adds texture
• Finish with lemon zest – Brightens the salad

Storing Mary Berry Caesar Salad the Right Way

• Store dressing separately – Keeps lettuce fresh
• Refrigerate ingredients promptly – Maintains quality
• Keep croutons airtight – Prevents softening
• Assemble only when needed – Best texture

How to Reheat Mary Berry Caesar Salad (If Needed)

• Do not reheat the salad – Best served cold
• Warm proteins separately – Add just before serving
• Toast croutons briefly if needed – Restores crunch

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~290 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~18 g
• Fats: ~22 g
• Protein: ~9 g
• Sugar: ~3 g

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FAQs

Can I make Caesar salad dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the fridge. Keep it covered and give it a good whisk before using, as it may thicken slightly when chilled.

How do I keep Caesar salad lettuce crisp?

Wash the lettuce thoroughly and dry it completely before using. Any excess moisture will dilute the dressing and soften the leaves, so using a salad spinner helps a lot.

Is anchovy necessary in Caesar salad dressing?

Anchovy adds depth and the classic savoury flavour associated with Caesar salad. If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount or finely mash it so it blends smoothly into the dressing.

When should I add the dressing to Caesar salad?

The dressing should be added just before serving. Tossing it too early can cause the lettuce to wilt and lose its crisp texture.

Wrapping It Up

This Mary Berry Caesar Salad is a fresh, dependable recipe that proves simple ingredients can deliver confident flavour. Crisp lettuce, creamy dressing, and careful balance make it suitable for everyday meals or relaxed entertaining. If you enjoy classic salads done properly, this is one recipe you’ll keep coming back to.