Contrary to what the name implies, Caesar’s salad is not named after Julius Caesar, the former Roman emperor. Although its origin is debated, several sources indicate that this scrumptious dish may in fact have come from Mexico and that it only dates back to the 1920s.

Toujours Mikes appreciates the popularity of this dish. That’s why we are proud to offer it in our dining room. Are you interested in making your own? Here’s how to garnish a Caesar salad like Toujours Mikes.

Before garnishing your Caesar, you have to choose the right lettuce

Before garnishing our Caesar salad, let’s talk about the lettuce that goes into it. There are several types of lettuce on the market: chicory, curly, crisphead, etc. But for a Caesar salad like Toujours Mikes’, you naturally have to choose a romaine lettuce. When picking yours, choose a fresh romaine that has no wilting at the risk of spoiling your dining experience. It should also be a beautiful dark green. A traditional Caesar salad is served shredded and raw. On the other hand, you can always grill it. Strange, right? Not as much you might think, and it’s very delicious.

Seasoning: the essence of Caesar salad

With your romaine lettuce in hand, it’s time to season it. The typical Caesar dressing consists of anchovies, Dijon mustard, vinegar or lemon juice, olive oil, a little garlic and lots of Parmesan cheese. You can customize it as you wish. Not everyone likes anchovies. At this point, some people choose to replace them with capers, which gives an equally flavourful result. The more novice cooks among you may opt for a jarred dressing at the grocery store. The more experienced will choose to make it themselves. Don’t forget that our chefs are always happy to serve theirs when you come to the restaurant.

Garnish your salad the right way

Romaine lettuce, dressing and what else? For a Caesar salad like Toujours Mikes’, it has to be garnished the right way. This can be done by taking out a pan and cooking a few slices of bacon and then chopping them up. If you prefer, you can always get imitation bacon in grocery stores or replace the bacon with pancetta or prosciutto and cook it until the meat is crisp.

Finish garnishing in due form

No Caesar salad would be complete without croutons. Want to make them yourself? Here’s how: in a bowl, mix a little salt, herbs and oil. Add strips or cubes of sliced bread and coat with the mixture. Then place them on a baking sheet and bake in the oven at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes, turning the sheet halfway through cooking. After all this preparation, all that’s left to do is sprinkle the shredded romaine lettuce with parmesan cheese and bacon and drizzle the almost-finished dish with creamy garlic vinaigrette before topping it with croutons.

For the best Caesar salad ever

A Caesar salad is a no fuss gourmet meal. It goes well with a meal, but it can also be served on its own. For maximum satisfaction, add grilled chicken or shrimp to your salad. We actually have a delicious Caesar salad with chicken strips on the menu, and no one will blame you for taking these delicious little liberties.

Feel like having a tasty Caesar salad without getting out your cooking equipment? Visit us at one of many Toujours Mikes restaurants in the province or order your meal online. We will gladly serve you the best Caesar salad in a warm and friendly atmosphere. After all, there is a Toujours Mikes restaurant near you.