Classic Roast Chicken

Introduction

The Classic Caesar Salad is one of the most iconic salads in culinary history, known for its perfect balance of crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy golden croutons, and a tangy, creamy dressing. Created in the 1920s by Caesar Cardini, an Italian-American restaurateur, this dish has remained a timeless favorite on tables worldwide. Its charm lies in the simplicity of fresh ingredients combined with bold, savory flavors.

The heart of this salad is its homemade Caesar dressing—a luscious emulsion of olive oil, egg yolk, garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, anchovies, and Parmesan cheese. Paired with crunchy croutons made from scratch and crisp romaine lettuce, the result is a refreshing yet indulgent salad that can be enjoyed as a side dish or even as a light main course.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it perfectly captures the magic of comfort food made simple. With just a handful of ingredients—lemon, garlic, butter, and fresh herbs—you end up with a meal that feels luxurious and indulgent without being complicated. The golden, crispy skin and the tender, juicy meat are always a joy to carve into, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while it roasts is truly irresistible.

What makes this recipe extra special is its versatility and reliability. It’s one of those dishes I can make on a lazy Sunday or serve proudly at a holiday dinner, and it always delivers. The flavors are classic, wholesome, and universally loved. Plus, the leftovers are just as wonderful—perfect for sandwiches, soups, or even tossed into salads, making this chicken both delicious and practical.

For me, this dish is more than just a recipe—it’s a ritual. The process of preparing, roasting, and sharing a whole chicken brings a sense of tradition and warmth to the table. It’s a dish that never fails to gather people around, spark conversation, and create memories. That’s why it will always have a special place in my kitchen.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s:

• Simple yet elegant – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
• Versatile – can be served as a starter, a side, or a main with added protein.
• Healthier and fresher – homemade dressing and croutons are free from preservatives and taste much better than store-bought versions.
• A crowd-pleaser – universally loved, making it a reliable dish for family dinners, parties, or gatherings.

The Caesar Salad is a perfect example of how a few basic ingredients, when combined with care, can create something extraordinary.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: ~320 kcal
• Course: Salad, Side Dish
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Croutons:

• 3 cups cubed baguette or crusty bread
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Dressing:

• 2 egg yolks (or 2 tbsp mayonnaise if avoiding raw eggs)
• 2 anchovy fillets (or 1 tsp anchovy paste)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• ½ cup olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Croutons

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss the bread cubes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
5. Remove and let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks, anchovies, garlic, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create an emulsion.
3. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Place chopped romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl.
2. Add croutons and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
3. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
4. Serve immediately for maximum crunch and freshness.

How to Serve

• Serve chilled in a large bowl as a side dish to pasta, grilled meats, or seafood.
• For a main course, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan shavings for a restaurant-style presentation.

Recipe Tips

• For extra crunch, chill the lettuce before tossing with the dressing.
• Don’t overdress the salad; start with a small amount of dressing and add more if needed.
• Use day-old bread for the croutons—it toasts better.
• If you prefer not to use raw eggs, substitute with mayonnaise for a safer and equally creamy dressing.

Variations

• Chicken Caesar Salad – Add grilled chicken breast slices.
• Shrimp Caesar Salad – Top with garlic butter shrimp.
• Kale Caesar – Swap romaine for kale for a more nutrient-dense twist.
• Vegetarian Caesar – Omit anchovies and use Worcestershire sauce instead.
• Spicy Caesar – Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the dressing.

Freezing and Storage

• Dressing: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze as it will separate.
• Croutons: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Assembled Salad: Best enjoyed fresh. Once dressed, the lettuce will wilt within a few hours.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet for croutons
• Salad tongs

Conclusion

The Classic Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing and Croutons is proof that timeless recipes never go out of style. With its crisp lettuce, crunchy croutons, tangy dressing, and Parmesan cheese, this salad is fresh, flavorful, and endlessly versatile. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as a main with added protein, it’s a recipe that everyone should try at least once. Mastering it at home ensures you’ll always have a go-to dish that’s elegant, satisfying, and sure to impress.

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Classic Roast Chicken

Author: admin Cuisine: French Courses: Chicken

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 80 mins Total Time 1 hr 35 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 380 kcal per serving

Description

Few dishes are as comforting, timeless, and satisfying as a Classic Roast Chicken. With its crispy golden-brown skin, juicy and tender meat, and fragrant aroma wafting through the kitchen, roast chicken embodies the essence of home-cooked meals.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 lbs / 1.8–2.2 kg)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 garlic bulb, halved horizontally
• 1 medium onion, quartered
• 3 sprigs 3–4 fresh rosemary
• 3 sprigs 3–4 fresh thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional for Roasting Pan:

• 3 carrots, cut into large chunks
• 3 potatoes, quartered
• 2 celery stalks, cut into chunks
• 1 cup chicken broth or water (to keep pan moist and create drippings)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before roasting (to allow it to come to room temperature for even cooking). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels—dry skin ensures crispiness. Season the cavity with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with the lemon halves, garlic bulb halves, onion, and fresh herbs.
3. Step 3: Season the Exterior: Rub softened butter (or olive oil) all over the chicken, including under the skin if possible. Generously season the outside with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Step 4: Truss the Chicken (Optional): Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under for even cooking and better presentation.
5. Step 5: Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or cast-iron skillet. Add carrots, potatoes, and celery around the chicken if desired. Pour chicken broth or water into the pan to prevent drippings from burning. Roast in the oven for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on the chicken’s size. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh should read 165°F (74°C).
6. Step 6: Rest the Chicken: Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 10–15 minutes before carving. This allows juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender.

Keywords: Classic Roast Chicken