CAESAR SALAD WITH HOMEMADE CROUTONS AND BALSAMIC DRESSING

Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons and Balsamic Dressing image

Provided by Alexis Watson

Yield Makes 6 first-course servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

1/2 cup olive oil, divided
3 large garlic cloves, crushed, divided
1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
1 15-ounce loaf country-style white bread, crust removed, cut into cubes
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 anchovy fillets
1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 very large head of romaine lettuce, torn into bite-size pieces

Steps:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Whisk 1/4 cup oil, 2 garlic cloves, and coarse salt in large bowl to blend. Add bread cubes and toss to coat. Transfer croutons to baking sheet. Bake croutons until golden brown, about 12 minutes. Cool completely. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.)
Combine cheese, mayonnaise, anchovies, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, remaining 1/4 cup oil, and 1 garlic clove in blender; puree until smooth. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.
Place lettuce and croutons in large bowl. Toss with enough dressing to coat. Serve with any remaining dressing.