BACON AND BLUE CHEESE SALAD WITH CAESAR DRESSING

Bacon and Blue Cheese Salad with Caesar Dressing image

Provided by Dodie Thompson

Yield Makes 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 16

1 large romaine lettuce head, torn into bite-size pieces
6 bacon slices, cooked, crumbled
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (about 2 ounces)
For the easy caesar dressing:
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan (about 2 ounces)
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 garlic cloves
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Makes about 1 cup
1 cup Garlic Croutons
For the garlic croutons:
2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) butter
1/4 cup olive oil
2 large garlic cloves, pressed
4 French bread slices, cut into 3/4-inch cubes

Steps:

To make the salad:
Place first 3 ingredients in large bowl. Add enough dressing to season to taste and toss well. Garnish salad with croutons and serve.
To make the easy caesar dressing:
Combine all ingredients in blender or processor. Blend until smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper. (Can be prepared 2 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
To make the garlic croutons
Preheat oven to 350°F. Melt 2 tablespoons butter with olive oil and garlic in small saucepan. Place bread cubes on baking sheet. Pour butter mixture over and toss well. Bake until bread cubes are golden brown and crisp, about 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Cool completely. (Croutons can be prepared 1 day ahead. Store at room temperature in airtight container.)
Makes about 3 cups.