Cesarina, Gigi Ceasar Salad


By popular demand, the Cesarina is featured on the Gigi Trattoria menu throughout the year. The easy to prepare dressing omits the tradiational raw eggs, so the dressing can be made in advance and stored, refrigerated, for up to four days. We prepare focaccia crotons, but any toasted bread cubes can substiute. Gigi customers love the look and flavor, of the Parmesan shavings which top the salad.

• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
• 10 cups torn Romaine lettuce
• 1 cup toasted focaccia croutons
• 1/2 cup thinly shaved Parmesan cheese
  

   Gigi Caesar Dressing: Makes 2-1/2 cups

• 2 tablespoons roasted garlic
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped anchovies
• 1-1/2 cups mayonnaise (regular or fat-reduced)

1. Prepare the dressing: Place all ingredients in the work bowl of a food processor, turn on motor and blend until well combined and smooth.

2. To prepare salad, mix the grated Parmesan into 1 cup of the dressing; store the remaining, covered and refrigerated for up to 4 days. Toss the salad with the dressing (with Parmesan) and the crotons. Mound the salad onto serving plates, top with Parmesan shavings, and serve.