CREAMY CAESAR SALAD

Creamy Caesar Salad image

Provided by Lindsey McCue

Number Of Ingredients 13

1/2 lb pancetta or bacon (optional) rind removed, diced small
1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (if using pancetta)
3 clove garlic (small cloves)finely chopped
1/2 tsp salt
1 Tbsp anchovy paste
4 Tbsp real mayo
2 Tbsp white wine vinegar
2 Tbsp mustard
3/4 tsp pepper
3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 romaine hearts (more or less) cut into 1 inch pieces
4 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese
1/2 c croutons (optional)

Steps:

1. If your using the pancetta or bacon heat 1 Tbls. extra virgin olive oil in a small non stick pan. Add the pancetta. Cook over medium heat until it is nicely browned. With a slotted spoon transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel lined plate. set aside.
2. On a chopping board mix together the chopped garlic and salt, using the flat side of your knife blade or a spoon mash the ingredients to a pulp. Add this mixture to a large bowl.
3. Add the anchovy paste, mayo, white wine vinegar,mustard, and pepper. Using a wire whisk, mix all the ingredients well. Continue whisking while slowly adding the 3 Tbls. of extra virgin olive oil in a thin stream. Mix all the ingredients until the oil has emulsified into the dressing.
4. In a large salad bowl toss the chopped romaine hearts, croutons and browned pancetta (if using) Add dressing coating well to taste. Sprinkle grated parmesan on top and serve!