Original Caesar Salad Recipe by Caesar Cardini

The Caesar salad, as created in the 1920s by Caesar Cardini in Tijuana, Mexico, is a simple and classic version that led to the modern Caesar salad we know today. Caesar Cardini also often added a touch of freshly ground black pepper to the original Caesar salad recipe. Black pepper is essential for enhancing the flavor and balancing the richness of the dressing.

Here is the original recipe as Cardini prepared it:

Ingredients for the Original Caesar Salad (serves 4):

• 1 head of romaine lettuce (about 1 large head or 2 small)
• 3 slices of white bread (for croutons, cut into cubes)
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (preferably fresh, not powdered)
• 2 garlic cloves (to rub on the bowl)
• 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
• 1 raw egg yolk (important for the texture of the dressing)
• 2 anchovy fillets (finely chopped or in paste form)
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Make the croutons:

   • Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Cut the bread slices into small cubes (croutons) and fry them until golden and crispy.
   • Remove the croutons and set them aside.

2. Make the dressing:

   • In a large bowl, rub the inside of the bowl with a halved garlic clove. This infuses the bowl with garlic flavor.
   • In the same bowl, add the raw egg yolk, chopped anchovies, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix all the ingredients well. You can use a whisk to emulsify everything.
   • Slowly add the olive oil while whisking constantly, until the dressing becomes creamy and well emulsified.

3. Assemble the salad:

   • Wash and dry the romaine lettuce leaves. Tear them into medium-sized pieces and place them in the large bowl with the dressing.
   • Gently toss the lettuce to coat the leaves with the dressing.

4. Serve:

   • Add the fried croutons and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the salad.
   • Toss lightly or serve as is, with extra shavings of Parmesan.

Tips:

• The original Caesar salad does not include chicken or bacon (as seen in many modern variations). It is made with just romaine lettuce, croutons, dressing, and Parmesan cheese.
• It's important to use the raw egg yolk to achieve the creamy texture of the dressing.

Caesar Cardini's Caesar salad remains a timeless classic and a true tribute to simplicity and bold flavors. You can enjoy it as a starter or as a light main dish for lunch or dinner.

Bon appétit!

In the 1920s, the Caesar salad gained popularity, and the drinks that accompanied it were often typical of the time, especially cocktails and wines. If you were enjoying a Caesar salad back then, here are some popular drink options:

1. Classic Cocktails from the 1920s:

   • Martini: A very popular cocktail at the time, made with gin and dry vermouth. It was an elegant choice to accompany refined dishes.
   • Manhattan: A cocktail made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a few drops of Angostura. Perfect for a sophisticated evening.
   • Tom Collins: A light cocktail made with gin, sugar, lemon, and sparkling water. Very refreshing, especially with light dishes like Caesar salad.
   • French 75: A sparkling cocktail made with gin, champagne, sugar, and lemon. Very chic and elegant, ideal for the time.

2. Wines:

   • Dry white wine: A Sauvignon Blanc or fresh, light Chardonnay would have been an excellent choice to pair with the Caesar salad, due to its acidity and freshness that complement the richness of the cheese and dressing.
   • Rosé wine: Rosé wines were also popular in the 1920s, with light and fruity flavors that go well with the salad.

3. Non-alcoholic beverages:

   • Sparkling water: Although wine or cocktails were more common, sparkling water was also a refreshing drink option for those who did not consume alcohol.
   • Sodas or homemade lemonades: While a bit more modern, some versions of fruit-based sweet drinks could also accompany light meals.

The 1920s, also known as the "Roaring Twenties," was a time of elegance and glamour, and drinks were part of it, whether with meals or as part of social events.

In summary, you would most likely have enjoyed an elegant cocktail or a good glass of wine, depending on your preferences!