Ultimate Keto Caesar Salad Recipe

If youβre searching for a keto Caesar salad thatβs both satisfying and flavorful, look no further. This classic dish gets a low-carb twist with a creamy dressing, crisp romaine lettuce, and crunchy homemade keto croutons. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this salad delivers on taste and keeps you within your carb limits.

Why This Recipe Works
The Caesar salad is a timeless favorite, but traditional recipes often contain high-carb ingredients like croutons and store-bought dressings with hidden sugars. This keto version ensures every bite is wholesome and keto-approved. Plus, with its high-fat, low-carb profile, it aligns perfectly with your ketogenic lifestyle. Learn more about the benefits of keto-friendly meals at Healthline.
Ingredients π
For the Salad:
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce, chopped π₯¬
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese π§
- 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits π₯
- 1/2 cup keto-friendly croutons (recipe below)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese π§
- 1 tbsp lemon juice π
- 1 clove garlic, minced π§
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 anchovy fillets, finely minced (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste π§
For the Keto Croutons:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese π§
- 1 tbsp olive oil π«
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
Tip: To learn how to perfectly chop lettuce and make your preparation easier, visit BBC Good Food.
Instructions π
1. Make the Keto Croutons

- Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, shredded mozzarella, olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Roll the mixture into small balls or flatten into squares and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 10β12 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Let cool before using.
2. Prepare the Dressing

- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and anchovies (if using).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill the dressing in the fridge while you assemble the salad.
3. Assemble the Salad

- In a large salad bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with half of the dressing to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the salad with grated Parmesan, bacon bits, and keto croutons.
- Drizzle the remaining dressing on top and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon to make this salad a complete meal. Learn how to perfectly grill chicken at Food Network.
- Serve as a side dish to keto-friendly pizza or garlic butter steak.
Nutritional Benefits
This keto Caesar salad is packed with nutrients while keeping the carb count low:
- Romaine Lettuce: A great source of vitamins A and K, adding crunch without carbs.
- Parmesan Cheese: Rich in protein and calcium, perfect for keto diets.
- Homemade Croutons: Made with almond flour to keep them low-carb while providing the texture of traditional croutons.
- Dressing: Creamy, flavorful, and free of the hidden sugars often found in store-bought options.
Did You Know? Parmesan cheese is naturally low in carbs and packed with umami flavor, making it a keto favorite. Learn more about its nutritional benefits at Cheese Science Toolkit.
Customizations
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken, boiled eggs, or seared scallops can enhance the nutritional profile and make it a hearty main dish.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon bits and anchovies for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Extra Crunch: Sprinkle with roasted nuts or seeds for additional texture.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh romaine lettuce, high-quality Parmesan, and freshly minced garlic make a huge difference in flavor.
- Customize the Dressing: Adjust the anchovies, garlic, and lemon juice to match your taste preferences.
- Make Ahead: Prep the dressing and croutons a day in advance to save time. Keep everything separate until ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I store leftover salad?
2. Are there dairy-free alternatives?
3. Can I make this salad nut-free?
Keto Mediterranean Feta Salad Recipe

Ultimate Keto Caesar Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 large head of romaine lettuce chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits
- 1/2 cup keto-friendly croutons
Instructions
- Make the croutons by mixing almond flour, mozzarella cheese, and seasonings, then bake until crispy.
- Prepare the dressing by whisking together mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
- Toss the romaine lettuce with the dressing and top with Parmesan, bacon bits, and croutons.