Ready-made caesar sauce

Caesar sauce, an integral component of the classic Caesar salad, has a rich history that dates back to 1924, credited to Italian-American restaurateur Caesar Cardini in Tijuana, Mexico. Legend has it that Cardini invented the dressing (and the salad) out of necessity on a busy Fourth of July when his kitchen was running low on ingredients. The original dressing was made tableside and included whole lettuce leaves which were meant to be eaten with the fingers. Over time, the recipe evolved and became a staple in American cuisine, often served with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese. It’s also popular as a dressing for chicken salads or as a dip.

• Tear the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl.
• If including, add the sliced cooked chicken breast and anchovy fillets over the lettuce.
• Drizzle the ready-made Caesar sauce over the lettuce (and chicken, if using). Use tongs to gently toss the salad, ensuring the leaves are evenly coated with the sauce.
• Sprinkle the croutons and Parmesan cheese over the salad. Toss lightly again.
• Season with freshly ground black pepper and serve immediately.

Storage Tips

Ready-made Caesar sauce should be stored in the refrigerator, tightly sealed, to maintain its freshness. Pay close attention to the expiration date on the packaging, and once opened, use the sauce within the timeframe recommended by the manufacturer, usually about 1-2 weeks.

Useful Properties of the Main Ingredient

While the nutritional content of ready-made Caesar sauce can vary by brand, many are made with ingredients like olive oil, anchovies, and Parmesan cheese, which offer various health benefits. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, known for heart health benefits, and anchovies are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, important for brain function.

Interesting Facts about the Sauce

• Global Fame: What started as a simple dressing has become one of the world’s most famous sauces, featured on menus from Tijuana to Tokyo.
• Original Recipe: The original Caesar dressing was made without anchovies; the distinct anchovy flavor came from the Worcestershire sauce. However, many modern recipes and ready-made versions include mashed anchovies for a more pronounced flavor.
• Cardini’s Originality: Caesar Cardini insisted that the true Caesar salad is devoid of anchovies, believing that the Worcestershire sauce provided enough of a flavor punch.

The Caesar sauce is a testament to culinary innovation and the enduring appeal of simple, flavorful ingredients. Whether enjoyed in a traditional Caesar salad or as a versatile condiment, its rich history and delicious taste make it a favorite around the globe.