The Dressing Punch
A weak Caesar salad is just lettuce with watery mayo. A good one needs a dressing that tastes of garlic, lemon, and that unmistakable umami from anchovies. If you cannot taste the funk of the fish, something is missing. The dressing must cling to every leaf without making the bowl a soggy mess.
Crouton Integrity
Freshness is non-negotiable. The croutons should be crunchy enough to make a sound when you bite them, not stale or rock-hard. Some places use massive shards of parmesan which add a great sharp finish. Avoid versions that use pre-shredded cheese from a shaker: it just does not hit the same way.
Quick answers
- Is Caesar salad usually vegetarian?
- Usually no, because the traditional dressing contains anchovies and sometimes Worcestershire sauce.
- What makes it a complete meal?
- Most Singapore cafes offer an add-on of grilled chicken, smoked salmon, or even a soft-boiled egg to make it more filling.