When it comes to the many options of salads that are available these days, the Caesar salad remains one of the most popular classic choices. Loved by many and served in countless restaurants worldwide, this salad’s fascinating history and unique combination of flavors and ingredients continue to be a hit on countless menus and households. Because of that, one of your favorite pizza shops, Rizzo’s Pizza, is here this month to unveil the savory history of one of the most popular salads around!
Caesar Cardini: Master of Simplicity
Caesar salad owes its name to its ingenious creator, Italian-American chef Caesar Cardini. In the 1920s, Cardini’s restaurant in Tijuana, Mexico, became the birthplace of this legendary salad. What started as a humble improvisation using available ingredients transformed into a global sensation still loved by millions today!
Anchovies: An Unique Ingredient
With their distinctive umami flavor, anchovies play a crucial role in the traditional Caesar dressing. However, their presence often sparks debate as some prefer their inclusion while others prefer anchovy-free variations.
The dressing is typically made with mashed anchovy fillets in the original recipe. They’re combined with other ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and sometimes raw or coddled egg yolk.
The Magic of Coddled Eggs
The original recipe for Caesar salad calls for raw eggs, which lends a richness and creaminess to the salad. However, concerns about raw egg consumption have encouraged adaptations using coddled or pasteurized eggs. Coddled eggs are made by placing an egg in a small dish that is then put in a hot water bath to cook. The other dressing ingredients and eggs are then emulsified to create a creamy and tangy dressing!
A Muse for Culinary Innovations
The success of the Caesar salad has inspired chefs worldwide to experiment with different twists on the classic dish. Variations now include ingredients like bacon, avocado, vegetables, and other components.
What began as a side dish has also evolved into a main course with numerous proteins to complete the meal, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, steak, and even tofu. This versatility allows this dish to cater to various dietary preferences while still maintaining its distinctive flavor profile!
Visit One of Your Favorite Pizza Shops, Rizzo’s Roast Beef!
Whether you prefer the traditional recipe or enjoy exploring the countless variations of the Caesar salad, there’s no denying that this dish remains a classic and timeless option. When you’re craving a hearty calzone, gourmet pizza, refreshing salad, or another delicious meal, you’ll always be satisfied when you dine with us at Rizzo’s. To view all our other food options, we encourage you to check out our online menu. We look forward to seeing you!