This gluten-free dairy-free Caesar salad has become one of my frequently requested recipes. A few months ago, I invited some friends over for dinner. Kevin was re-recording a small section of my audiobook intro, and we turned it into an evening together. After we ate, we were all gathered around the kitchen island when I noticed one of our guests quietly picking the last croutons out of the Caesar salad bowl one by one.
I loved everything about that moment. She felt at home enough to do it. And they were good enough that she couldn't resist.
Weeks later, my granddaughters arrived for a visit and walked in announcing, "We want that Caesar salad! Hadley's been raving about it the whole car ride here."
It's the croutons. And honestly? The dressing is pretty incredible too.
The Secret to These Gluten-Free Croutons
These croutons get their irresistible flavor from two Spice Cure blends working together.
Alliumptious brings savory depth with a delicate blend of four alliums: shallots, chives, garlic, and onion, combined with mild, flavorful green peppercorns. Alliumptious delivers the rich, savory backbone that makes these croutons impossible to walk away from.
Herbie adds fragrant herbal complexity. Organic oregano, sage, basil, and marjoram round out the flavor beautifully.
Both blends are nightshade-free, making these croutons a safe and delicious option for anyone avoiding nightshades. Together, they do what would require a handful of separate dried herbs and spices, yet they’re perfectly balanced, every single time.
How to Make This Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Caesar Salad
1. Make the croutons: Cube up the bread and place it on a baking sheet. Mix the olive oil and seasonings in a small bowl and then toss the oil mixture and bread together on the baking sheet and bake. Tip: don’t overbake the croutons or they might become tooth hazards. Lightly golden, not hard, is what you’re looking for because they'll crisp up further as they cool.
2. Make the dressing: A small food processor or blender makes things easy. It not only emulsifies the dressing but completely purees the garlic so you don't end up with sharp raw pieces. It comes together in about 20 seconds.
3. Toss the salad: When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the romaine with the dressing and croutons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What gluten-free sourdough bread do you recommend for the croutons?
I use Franz gluten-free sourdough. We have a Franz bakery near us, so most grocery stores carry it, and Costco carries it now too. When I’m nearby during business hours, I buy it at their outlet store. Last time I was there, they had a sign apologizing for not being able to keep up with demand—that’s how good it is. Baking your own gluten-free sourdough is an excellent option too. The key is choosing a loaf sturdy enough to toast without crumbling.
Can I make this Caesar dressing without anchovies?
You can, but it won’t really be a Caesar anymore—it’ll just be a nice garlicky vinaigrette. Anchovies (or anchovy paste) are what give classic Caesar dressing its deep, savory oomph. If you’re squeamish about them, reduce the amount. If you use a food processor or blender, you won’t see pieces or taste fish, just a richer, more complex flavor. I won’t eat anchovies on pizza, but I wouldn’t make this without them.
Is Worcestershire sauce gluten-free?
Some brands are and some aren’t. I use Lea & Perrins, which is gluten-free at the time of writing, but manufacturers change formulas, so always check the label for wheat, barley, or malt, or look for one that’s clearly marked gluten-free.
Is this Caesar salad completely dairy-free?
The dressing itself is dairy-free. The salad will stay fully dairy-free as long as you skip the Parmesan or mizithra at the end. If you omit the cheese, it will still be delicious.
Can I make this in advance?
You can make the croutons up to a week in advance to ensure they have time to cool. Store them in a loosely covered container, then hide them, because these croutons are dangerously snackable and may vanish long before the salad hits the table. The dressing will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Because olive oil firms when chilled, let it sit at room temperature briefly, then shake or whisk before serving.
How do I store leftover dressed salad?
You really don’t. Caesar is one of those salads that’s best eaten right after you dress it. The lettuce wilts and the croutons go soggy in the fridge. If you think you’ll have leftovers, keep the components separate and dress only what you plan to eat right away.
Get in the Kitchen
Whether you're making this for a dinner party, a family night, or just because you deserve a great salad, this one delivers every time. Make the croutons ahead, blend the dressing in 20 seconds, and toss it all together when you're ready. Simple as that.
If you make it, I'd love to hear what you think, especially if someone starts picking the croutons out of the bowl.
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