Cuban Caesar Salad

Ingredients

While the original Caesar Salad is known for its creamy dressing and croutons, the Cuban adaptation incorporates elements of Cuban cuisine. The tropical twist comes from the addition of ingredients like ripe avocados, juicy mangoes, and tangy citrus flavors. The dressing is also given a Cuban twist with the inclusion of ingredients like cilantro and lime juice. We alse have the original recipe for Caesar Salad, so you can check it out.

• 2 heads romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces 2 heads romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1 mango, peeled and diced 1 mango, peeled and diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup Cuban-style croutons 1/2 cup Cuban-style croutons
• For the dressing: For the dressing:
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 8g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large salad bowl, combine the torn romaine lettuce, avocado slices, diced mango, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro leaves, Parmesan cheese, and Cuban-style croutons.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
4. 4.
   Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical flavors of this Cuban Caesar Salad.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Avocado — Choose ripe avocados that yield to gentle pressure. Slice just before serving to prevent browning.
• Mango — Select a ripe mango with a sweet aroma and slightly soft flesh. Peel and dice just before adding to the salad.
• Cuban-style croutons — Use traditional Cuban bread or substitute with toasted bread cubes seasoned with garlic and herbs.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add grilled shrimp or chicken to the salad.
• If you prefer a creamier dressing, blend in a ripe avocado with the other dressing ingredients.
• To make the salad more filling, add cooked black beans or roasted plantains.
• Experiment with different tropical fruits like papaya or pineapple for added variety.
• For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle with chili flakes.

Serving advice

Serve the Cuban Caesar Salad as a refreshing appetizer or as a light main course. Pair it with warm Cuban bread or plantain chips for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the salad on a large platter, allowing the vibrant colors of the ingredients to shine through. Garnish with additional cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an appealing presentation.