Ingredients

1 large English cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced

1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended)

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish

1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

1/8 teaspoon salt, or to taste

1/4 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)

Optional: Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein

Instructions

Step 1: Peel the cucumber and slice it thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Pat the slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Alternatively, lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit in a colander for 15-20 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly and pat dry before moving on.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.

Step 3: Add the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese to the dressing mixture.

Step 4: Season with freshly ground black pepper and salt. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Whisk all ingredients until the dressing is creamy and smooth. If it feels too thick, add a teaspoon or two of water to reach your preferred consistency.

Step 6: In a large bowl, gently toss the cucumber slices with the Caesar dressing until all slices are well coated.

Step 7: Just before serving, add the croutons and gently toss to combine.

Step 8: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. If desired, top with grilled chicken or shrimp.

Step 9: Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture and fresh flavors.

Tips & Variations

To reduce moisture in cucumbers, salting and draining helps keep the salad crisp and prevents it from becoming soggy.

For a lighter dressing, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.

Add anchovy paste to the dressing for a more traditional Caesar flavor.

Use homemade croutons toasted with garlic and herbs for extra crunch and flavor.

For a vegan option, replace mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and omit Parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute.

Storage

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. The cucumbers may release water, making the salad less crisp, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. Keep croutons separate until ready to serve to maintain their crunch. Reheat is not recommended as this is best served cold.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but English cucumbers are preferred because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, resulting in a better texture and less bitterness.

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based cheese substitute. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.