An easy way to take the flavor of a Caesar salad to the next level is to grill the romaine lettuce before dressing and serving. It takes only a few minutes and makes a huge difference!
Grilled Romaine
serves 6-8 people
3 hearts of romaine
safflower or olive oil
salt and pepper
While prepping lettuce, heat grill.
Cut each heart of romaine in half lengthwise. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush each half of romaine with oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
You want the grill to be hot enough before starting, because otherwise you'll have to cook the romaine for too long before grill marks are achieved, and lettuce will lose its crunchiness. Once grill is heated, gently lay each half of romaine cut side down on the grill. Let grill for 2-3 minutes. After 2 minutes, check the romaine. It's ready when there are defined grill marks and edges have started to burn.
Serve halves as is (letting each person slice their own) or slice each half into pieces. Serve with your favorite Caesar dressing and croutons.