Caesar Salad Celebrates a Century: The Birth and Evolution of a Timeless Classic Dish

Salad Master Efrain Montoya tosses in Parmesan cheese Thursday as he prepares a Caesar salad at Ceasar's restaurant in Tijuana, Mexico.
The Birth of a Classic Dish
Caesar salad, a timeless favorite, is marking its 100th anniversary. Created by Italian immigrant Caesar Cardini in 1924 at Caesar's Place in Tijuana, Mexico, the salad was born out of necessity during a busy night amid Prohibition. Combining simple ingredients like Romaine lettuce, garlic-flavored oil, Worcestershire sauce, and Parmesan cheese, the dish has stood the test of time.
A Culinary Icon Celebrates
This month, Tijuana is celebrating the centenary with a grand three-day food and wine festival and the unveiling of a statue in honor of Cardini. Caesar's restaurant, which Cardini opened a few years after inventing the salad, continues to serve up to 300 Caesar salads daily, paying homage to its rich culinary heritage.
Enduring Popularity
Unlike other dishes from the early 20th century, such as creamed liver loaf, Caesar salad remains a popular choice on menus across the U.S. Nearly 35% of restaurants feature the beloved salad, with over 43 million bottles of Caesar salad dressing sold in the past year alone. Professor Beth Forrest attributes the salad's success to its satisfying mix of textures and flavors, making it a standout favorite.
Innovative Variations
Throughout the years, chefs have put their unique twist on the classic Caesar salad. From adding protein like chicken or bacon to experimenting with alternative dressings made from miso paste or tofu, the salad continues to evolve. Restaurants like Beatrix in Chicago serve up creative versions that keep customers coming back for more.
A Recipe Shrouded in Mystery
While the origins of the salad are debated, one thing remains certain - its enduring appeal. Whether created by Cardini himself or inspired by Italian traditions, the Caesar salad has secured its place in culinary history. As the salad continues to evolve and adapt to modern tastes, one thing is for sure: Caesar salad is here to stay.
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Caesar's in Tijuana didn't respond when asked about the salad's history by The Associated Press, but the restaurant does mention Santini's name on its website.