Spicy Wedge Caesar Salad with Cornbread Croutons: Bold Flavors for Every Occasion
Zesty jalapeño-cilantro dressing and golden baked cubes deliver a festive crunch.
Spicy Wedge Caesar Salad with Cornbread Croutons
Bring a fresh level of excitement to your Caesar salad with vibrant flavors and an irresistible crunch! This Spicy Wedge Caesar Salad with Cornbread Croutons delivers everything you love about Caesar salads—and then some. Expect bright herbs, a creamy jalapeño and cilantro Caesar dressing, and spiced cornbread croutons that turn any meal into a celebration.
Why This Salad Stands Out
- Twist on a Classic: Adds bold jalapeño spice and fresh cilantro to the familiar Caesar profile.
- Unique Croutons: Swap traditional bread for golden, spiced cornbread cubes.
- Wholesome and Versatile: Enjoy as a show-stopping side or build up with protein for a main course.
- Simple Prep: Minimal steps with big-payoff flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Serves 4-6
For the Cornbread Croutons
- 2 cups cornbread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon salted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chile powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Dressing & Salad
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, packed
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese, plus additional shaved parmesan for topping
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
- 4 anchovy fillets
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 large jalapeño pepper, stemmed, seeded, and cut into chunks
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 2 romaine hearts
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Cornbread Croutons
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, gently combine cubed cornbread, melted butter, paprika, chipotle chile powder, and garlic powder until each piece is well coated.
- Spread the cubes evenly on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, tossing halfway, until golden and crunchy.
- Let croutons cool—they’ll crisp up further as they sit.
2. Make the Spicy Caesar Dressing
- In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, mayonnaise, grated parmesan, olive oil, lime juice, dijon mustard, sugar, black pepper, anchovies, garlic, and jalapeño.
- Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
- Taste and season with kosher salt and additional black pepper as needed.
3. Prep the Romaine and Assemble the Salad
- Remove any wilted outer leaves from romaine hearts.
- Slice each heart lengthwise through the core to create long wedges.
- Rinse wedges under cool water and pat dry thoroughly—dressing clings best to dry lettuce.
- Arrange the wedges on a large serving platter.
- Drizzle generously with the spicy caesar dressing.
- Top with cooled cornbread croutons, shaved parmesan, and a few extra grinds of black pepper.
Expert Tips and Variation Ideas
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread croutons out for even crisping.
- Adjust the Heat: Want more spice? Leave the jalapeño seeds in, or add an extra pepper.
- Make Ahead: Croutons and dressing can be prepped a day ahead for easier assembly.
- Protein Add-Ons: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted chickpeas for a complete meal.
- Fresh Herbs: Sub cilantro with flat-leaf parsley for a milder herb note.
Why Try Cornbread Croutons?
Cornbread croutons bring something extra: a hint of sweetness, a satisfyingly tender interior, and a crisp, spiced exterior. This swap not only boosts texture, but also gives classic Caesar salad a touch of Southern comfort—making it stand out at cookouts, barbecues, or any festive gathering.
Serving Suggestions
What others are reading
This spicy Caesar salad shines as a vibrant side dish but adapts easily for many occasions:
- Pair with grilled steak, chicken, or fish for a hearty dinner plate.
- Serve alongside pasta or casseroles for a bright, balanced meal.
- Dress it up as a main by topping generous portions with protein.
- Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and cookouts thanks to sturdy lettuce and croutons that hold up well.
Classic Caesar Salad Origins and Comparison
| Feature | Classic Caesar Salad | Spicy Wedge Caesar Salad |
|---|---|---|
| Croutons | French or Italian bread, baked | Cornbread cubes, spiced and baked |
| Dressing | Lemon, anchovy, egg, parmesan, garlic | Jalapeño, cilantro, lime, mayo, anchovies, parmesan |
| Lettuce Style | Chopped romaine | Wedge-cut romaine hearts |
| Heat/Spice | Mild, tangy-garlicky | Moderate to bold, depending on jalapeño |
| Extra Toppings | Shaved parmesan, cracked pepper | Cilantro, shaved parmesan, pepper |
Make-Ahead and Storage Advice
- Croutons: Store cooled cornbread croutons in an airtight container at room temperature up to 2 days for maximum crunch.
- Dressing: Keep dressing refrigerated in a sealed jar up to 2 days. Stir before serving, as fresh herbs may settle.
- Leftovers: Fully assembled salads are best enjoyed the same day. If prepping ahead, wait until just before serving to dress and assemble.
Seasonal Pairings and Menu Inspiration
- Early Fall: Serve with hearty chili or roasted squash for a warming contrast.
- Summer BBQ: Pairs well with grilled corn, burgers, or ribs—set out family-style!
- Holiday Tables: Add color and zest to Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving spreads with this salad as a refreshing side.
- Quick Weeknight Dinners: Make it a meal with a handful of rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use store-bought cornbread for the croutons?
Yes, day-old store-bought or homemade cornbread works well. Just avoid varieties that are too sweet or crumbly—the optimal texture is firm so the cubes hold together while baking.
Is there a substitute for anchovies in the dressing?
If you prefer, you can omit the anchovies, but note that they provide a classic savory umami depth. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or extra parmesan may be used as a substitute.
How spicy is the salad?
Jalapeño adds moderate heat. For less spice, remove seeds and ribs before blending. For extra heat, leave some seeds in or add a second pepper.
Can the salad be made dairy-free or vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegan mayonnaise and a plant-based parmesan alternative. For a vegetarian option, omit anchovies and add an umami-rich ingredient like capers.
How do I keep lettuce crisp for serving?
Dry lettuce thoroughly after rinsing, and keep chilled in the refrigerator until ready to dress and serve. Use within a few hours for the best texture.
Creative Additions and Customizations
- Make It a Meal: Top with slices of grilled steak, seared salmon, or crispy tofu.
- Mix Up Herbs: Substitute basil, parsley, or mint for cilantro based on personal taste or seasonal availability.
- Extra Crunch: Sprinkle roasted pepitas or spiced roasted chickpeas on top for more texture.
- Double the Dressing: Use leftover dressing as a dip for crudités or as a spread for sandwiches and wraps.
More Caesar-Inspired Recipes & Sides
- Upgrade Your Caprese with Fried Green Tomatoes
- Seasonal Fall Salads to Make the Most of the Harvest
- Healthier Pumpkin Recipes for Autumn
- Halloween Dinner Ideas for a Crowd
- Fresh Corn Recipes for Summer
- Nostalgic 4th of July Cookout Favorites
- Retro Grape Salad: A Sweet, Creamy Classic
- Grilled Sweet Potatoes: Your New Go-To Side
- Best Smashed Potato Salad for Summer Gatherings
- Southern Potato Salad: A Must for Cookouts
Final Thoughts: Fresh, Flavorful, and Fun
This Spicy Wedge Caesar Salad with Cornbread Croutons is a celebration of flavors and textures—a zesty, crunchy, and color-packed side that’s destined to become a new favorite at your table. Whether you’re side-dishing for a casual weeknight or adding flair to weekend feasts, this upgraded Caesar is sure to wow every crowd. Enjoy the burst of jalapeño-lime dressing, savor the golden cornbread crunch, and share this festive creation with everyone you love!
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a46663424/spicy-caesar-salad-cornbread-croutons-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a43580200/caesar-salad-recipe/
- https://www.aol.com/spicy-wedge-caesar-salad-cornbread-200700709.html
- https://www.grainmillwagon.com/delicious-cornbread-croutons/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g64793644/caesar-inspired-recipes/
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