Spicy Caesar Salad with Toasted Breadcrumbs

Recipe by Inspired by Jon & Vinny's restaurant on August 3, 2022

Rating

5 stars (3 reviews)

Dressing: 6 Tablespoons Vegenaise (I like soy-free or good quality mayonnaise)
2 Tablespoons water
1 ½ Tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 garlic cloves (minced)
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 Tablespoon capers (drained from brine or anchovy paste)
1-2 teaspoons chopped Calabrian chiles or hot sauce (or to taste)
3 Tablespoons unrefined (cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil)
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed
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Breadcrumbs:
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter or plant butter
2 Tablespoons unrefined (cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (you can find gluten-free crumbs if necessary)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Sea salt as needed (depending on how salty the breadcrumbs are)
3 heads of Little Gem lettuce
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese or plant-based Parmesan (I do this with my large microplane.)

In a blender, process all dressing ingredients until smooth. Taste for heat and salt and adjust accordingly. Set aside. Dressing will hold up in the fridge for up to one week.
In a large skillet, over medium-low heat, add the butter and the oil. Once the butter is melted, add the breadcrumbs and stir until golden, about 4-5 minutes. Don’t leave the stove. The breadcrumbs can burn easily! Stir in the garlic powder and taste for salt. Transfer the breadcrumbs to a paper towel-lined plate. Once cool, breadcrumbs can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Place the lettuce in a bowl or platter and toss with enough dressing to coat lightly. Sprinkle with the breadcrumbs and then the cheese. Serve any extra dressing on the side.

kate on 2026-02-25 (5 stars):
We LOVE this recipe and serve it to rave reviews always. Thank you for a fresh twist on old classic!
Mary on 2022-09-26 (5 stars):
I made this last night with gluten-free breadcrumbs. My husband loved it! We will be having it a few more times this week, as we have a lot of leftover dressing. Thank you for another delicious recipe!
Susan Brabant on 2022-08-03 (5 stars):
So excited to try, one of my favorites and J&V but not the $16.50 price. :)