Caesar Salad with “Crusty” Croutons
PREP TIME: 10min
COOK TIME: 10min
SERVES: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup garlic-flavoured olive oil, divided, plus more as needed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, divided, plus more as desired
- 4 ounces frozen pizza crust, thawed
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 1 medium head romaine, chopped, rinsed, and dried
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Method
Step 1
Put 1/4 cup of oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat and heat until hot but not smoking. Add 1/4 cup of the cheese to a medium bowl and set aside.
Step 2
Brush a work surface with a little oil and press the dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Cut the dough into thin strips, about 1/4-inch wide. When the oil is hot, using kitchen scissors, carefully hold the dough strips, 2 at a time, over the pan and snip off 1/4-inch pieces, letting them gently fall into the hot oil (this may take several batches).
Step 3
Shallow-fry the dough pieces, tossing frequently with a slotted spoon, Chinese strainer or tongs, until golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer the croutons to the bowl with the cheese and toss to coat. Continue frying and dredging the dough in the cheese until all the dough is used.
Step 4
When ready to serve, add the romaine to a large bowl, drizzle with lemon juice and add the remaining 1/4 cup oil. Season with salt and pepper, to taste and toss well to evenly coat the lettuce. Add the remaining 1/4 cup of cheese and the croutons and toss well until combined.
Step 5
Transfer to a serving platter and top with additional cheese, if desired.
