PACIFIC-RIM CAESAR SALAD

Pacific-Rim Caesar Salad image

Yield Makes 6 first-course servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 tablespoon sesame seeds
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon chopped peeled fresh ginger
1 tablespoon minced lemongrass*
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon fish sauce (nam pla)**
2 garlic cloves, peeled
2 teaspoons chili-garlic sauce**
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1large head of romaine lettuce, torn into bite-size pieces (about 15 cups loosely packed)
1 cup (packed) grated Parmesan cheese (about 3 ounces)

Steps:

Heat heavy small skillet over medium-low heat. Add sesame seeds and stir until toasted and golden, about 3 minutes. Set aside.
Combine lime juice and next 7 ingredients in processor; process until well blended. With processor running, add vegetable oil in slow stream; process until slightly thickened. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.
Place lettuce in large bowl. Add dressing and 3/4 cup Parmesan; toss to combine. Divide salad among 6 plates; sprinkle with remaining Parmesan and toasted sesame seeds.
Available at Asian markets and in the produce section of some supermarkets.
** Fish sauce and chili-garlic sauce are available at Asian markets and in the Asian foods section of many supermarkets.