Easy Caesar Salad Recipe (with UK Ingredient Substitutes)

Caesar Salad is a timeless classic — crisp, refreshing, and full of flavour. But sometimes, finding the exact ingredients can be a challenge, especially in the UK. This recipe includes handy ingredient alternatives so you can enjoy this iconic salad with what you have on hand.

🥗 Ingredients:

For the salad:

• 1 large romaine lettuce, chopped
  Alternative: Cos lettuce, Little Gem lettuce, baby spinach, or kale (massage it slightly to soften)
• 1/2 cup croutons
  Alternative: Toasted sourdough cubes, pitta chips, or any crusty bread toasted with olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  Alternative: Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano

For the dressing:

• 1 clove garlic, minced
  Alternative: Garlic powder (a pinch) or roasted garlic for milder taste
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  Alternative: Soy sauce + splash of vinegar, fish sauce, or balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
  Alternative: White wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or lime juice
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  Alternative: Greek yoghurt, crème fraîche, or olive oil with egg yolk
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• (Optional: 2 anchovy fillets, finely chopped – for extra umami)

👩🍳 Instructions:

1. Prepare the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together garlic, mustard, Worcestershire sauce (or substitute), lemon juice, and mayonnaise. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Add anchovies if desired.
2. Assemble the salad: Add chopped lettuce (or substitute) to a bowl. Add croutons and cheese.
3. Dress and toss: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until evenly coated.
4. Serve immediately: Enjoy as is, or add grilled chicken, shrimp, or a soft-boiled egg for extra protein.

This flexible Caesar Salad recipe is perfect for UK kitchens and can be adapted to your ingredients while keeping the creamy, zesty flavour you love.