Caesar Salad with Squash Croutons
Dive into a vibrant and refreshing Caesar Salad with Squash Croutons, where crisp romaine meets creamy dressing, and golden, slightly sweet squash croutons add a delightful crunch to every bite. This dish is perfect for any occasion, effortlessly transforming everyday ingredients into a restaurant-quality experience that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy its beautiful presentation and mouthwatering aromas that are sure to make this salad the star of your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 head Romaine Lettuce, chopped
- 2 cups Butternut Squash, cubed
- 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (divided)
- 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Dijon Mustard
- 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash cubes in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and remaining olive oil until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce with the dressing; toss gently to coat.
- Once the squash is roasted and slightly cooled, add it to the salad along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently.
- Serve immediately for optimal freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas. Feel free to swap romaine for kale or spinach for a nutrient boost. To keep leftovers fresh, store croutons separately from the salad and dress just before serving.