There are some ingredient combinations that were just made to go together. Peanut butter and jelly, tomato and basil, and bacon and eggs are just a few that come to mind. And if we’re talking about classic combos, I would also argue that the ingredients of a Caesar salad belong in that category. Something about the combination of romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, Parmesan cheese, and crispy croutons just works. It’s a classic for a reason and truly one of the most satisfying things to eat in the summertime (paired with a side of fries, of course). But if you’re looking to switch it up beyond a basic salad, there are tons of ways to put a fun twist on your old reliable. These alternative Caesar salad recipes taste even better than the classic:
This sandwich slaps everything you love about a Caesar salad on top of a crunchy, cheesy garlic bread base, and I truly can’t think of anything more perfect.
2. Grilled Romaine Caesar
Salad is probably not something you’d typically consider throwing on the grill, but this video might just change your mind. Grilling Romaine lettuce gives it a smoky, umami-rich flavor that will totally surprise you, and it goes perfectly with a drizzle of Caesar dressing, some toasted breadcrumbs, and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese.
3. Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
If you need a dish to bring to a backyard grill-out this summer, look no further. Everyone loves a good pasta salad, and this one is packed with romaine lettuce, crispy chicken, cucumbers, croutons, and Parmesan cheese, all topped off with a squeeze of lime juice and your Caesar dressing of choice.
4. Pesto Chicken Caesar Wrap with Roasted Corn and Avocado
A wrap is one of the most classic non-salad Caesar salad recipes out there, but thanks to the addition of pesto, garlic-toasted breadcrumbs, roasted corn, lemon juice, and avocado, this is quite possibly the most delicious-looking variation I’ve seen.
5. Caesar Salad Toast
Croutons are obviously the best part of any Caesar salad, and this recipe essentially creates one giant crouton (a piece of bread toasted in oil and garlic) and then pops the salad on top. Genius!
6. Sesame Kale Caesar Salad with Crispy Oven-Roasted Chickpeas
Traditional Caesar salad recipes are packed with ingredients that don’t necessarily align with everyone’s dietary preferences. So, if you’re looking for a better-for-you, vegan-friendly version, this recipe might be your new go-to. It combines a tahini-based dressing with kale, air-fried tofu, and crispy roasted chickpeas for a nutritious, texture-rich combo.
7. Elote Grilled Caesar
If you’re on board with the grilled salad idea, this elote-inspired version takes it to a whole new level. Topped with grilled corn, toasted breadcrumbs, crumbled cotija cheese, and a Tajín Caesar dressing, then served alongside grilled skirt steak, this recipe puts the word “salad” to shame.
8. Salmon Caesar Salad Pitas
Chicken is the classic protein pairing for a Caesar salad, but salmon can work just as well. For this 15-minute recipe, all you have to do is air-fry some salmon, toss together a Caesar salad, then stuff everything into pita bread.
9. Chicken Caesar Salad Pizza
Would I ever actually make this insane chicken-crust pizza topped with Caesar salad IRL? Not likely. But am I intrigued enough to watch the full recipe tutorial when scrolling through TikTok? You bet.
10. Chicken Caesar Lettuce Wraps
If you want the convenience of a wrap but not the extra fluff of a whole tortilla, grab a head of iceberg lettuce to make this recipe. Roll up your wrap with some grilled chicken, Parmesan, croutons, pickled red onions, and your dressing of choice for an easy on-the-go lunch.