Dutch-Inspired Caesar Salad

Ingredients

While the original Caesar Salad is known for its anchovy-based dressing and Parmesan cheese, this Dutch adaptation replaces the anchovies with a tangy Dutch cheese and incorporates local produce for a unique twist. The dressing is lighter and creamier, and the croutons are made with traditional Dutch bread. We alse have the original recipe for Caesar Salad, so you can check it out.

• 2 heads of romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces 2 heads of romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
• 150g (5.3 oz) Dutch cheese, thinly sliced 150g (5.3 oz) Dutch cheese, thinly sliced
• 100g (3.5 oz) Dutch bread, cubed 100g (3.5 oz) Dutch bread, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup (60ml) mayonnaise 1/4 cup (60ml) mayonnaise
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories: 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 6g)
• Carbohydrates: 12g (Sugar: 2g)
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a bowl, toss the cubed Dutch bread with olive oil and minced garlic. Spread the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy. Set aside.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. 4.
   In a large salad bowl, combine the torn romaine lettuce, sliced Dutch cheese, and crispy croutons.
5. 5.
   Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
6. 6.
   Serve immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dutch cheese — For a creamier texture, choose a young Gouda or Edam cheese. If you prefer a stronger flavor, opt for an aged Gouda.
• Dutch bread — Use a dense and crusty bread, such as a traditional Dutch rye bread or a whole wheat bread, for the croutons. It will add a unique flavor and texture to the salad.

Tips & Tricks

• To add a touch of sweetness, sprinkle some dried cranberries or raisins over the salad.
• For extra crunch, add some toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the Dutch cheese with a vegetarian alternative, such as a Dutch-style vegan cheese.
• To make it more filling, add grilled chicken or shrimp to the salad.
• For a refreshing twist, garnish the salad with thinly sliced radishes or cucumber.

Serving advice

Serve the Dutch-Inspired Caesar Salad as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner. It pairs well with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing Dutch beer.

Presentation advice

Arrange the salad on a large platter, placing the sliced Dutch cheese on top for an eye-catching presentation. Sprinkle the crispy croutons over the salad and drizzle the dressing just before serving to keep the lettuce fresh and vibrant.