It took a bit to put this recipe together but it was worth it.  The dressing is superb!  Simple ingredients create a dish that’s packed with flavour.  Have someone help you prep the ingredients – it’s more fun and it gets others engaged.  I learned that being a good host starts with including others in making a meal.   Ricardo’s magazine always has the most interesting recipes that aren’t complicated.  The best dish can sometimes be the least complicated.  I loved this one so much I want to share it with you!  The dressing will now be my go-to for Caesar Salads. 🙂 

Here’s the recipe:

Prep time 25 minutes

Makes 6

… INGRIDENTS …

Caesar Dressing

1 egg yolk

1 tbsp  (15ml) lemon juice

1 small garlic clove, finely chopped

¾ (180ml) canola oil (I used extra virgin olive oil)

1 tsp capers, chopped

2 tsp anchovy paste (I used jarred anchovies and mashed them)

¾ cup (55g) finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

Rolls

1 ½ cups (85g) diced white bread (I used a bagette)

1 tbsp (15ml) canola oil (extra virgin olive oil)

4 cups (180g) thinly sliced romaine lettuce

1 ¼ cups (215g) shredded cooked chicken

3 slices cooked bacon, chopped

6 round rice paper wrappers, about 9 inches (23cm) in diameter

… THE PROCESS FOR THE DRESSING …

1. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, lemon juice and garlic. Add one-third of the oil, drop by drop, whisking constantly.  When the emulsion begins to form a mayonnaise, drizzle in the remaining oil, whisking constantly.  Add the capers, anchovy paste and Parmesan.  Lightly season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

… THE PROCESS FOR THE ROLLS …

1. In a non-stick pan skillet over medium-high heat, brown the bread in the oil. Let the croutons cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, chicken, bacon and croutons. Toss the salad with half of the Caesar dressing.
3. In a shallow dish of hot water, soak one sheet of rice paper at a time for a few seconds or until softened. Remove from water.  Drain and place of work surface.
4. Spoon ¾ cup of salad onto the bottom third of the rice paper. Fold both side of the sheet toward the centre.  Tightly roll to enclose the filling.
5. Cover the roll with a damp cloth and continue with the remaining ingredients.
6. Serve with remaining Caesar dressing on the side.