Easy Caesar Salad with Leftover Bread Croutons
This Caesar Salad with Leftover Bread Croutons is the ultimate way to breathe new life into day-old bread! Crunchy homemade croutons, crisp romaine lettuce, a rich and creamy Caesar dressing, and shaved Parmesan come together in a refreshing, satisfying salad. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
⏱️ Time:
Prep: 10 min
Cook: 10 min
Total: 20 min
Ingredients
For the Croutons:
2 cups leftover bread, cubed (any type: sourdough, baguette, sandwich bread)
2 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: grilled chicken, hard-boiled egg, anchovies
For the Dressing (Quick Caesar Style):
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp lemon juice
1½ tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tbsp grated Parmesan
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 anchovy filet (or ½ tsp anchovy paste) for classic flavor
Instructions
1. Make Croutons
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or use a stovetop.
Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp (or toast in a skillet for 5–7 minutes). Cool.
2. Make Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
3. Assemble Salad
In a large bowl, toss romaine lettuce with some of the dressing (start with half).
Add croutons and Parmesan. Toss again gently.
Top with optional chicken or egg if using.
Drizzle extra dressing over top if needed.
Tips
- No mayo? Use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Leftover bread works best if it’s slightly stale — better crunch!
- Add cherry tomatoes or avocado for a twist.
- Use store-bought Caesar dressing if in a rush.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 8g
Carbs:25g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 480mg
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