Grilled broccoli might not be the first thing you think of for a Caesar salad, but once you try it, it’s hard to go back. The florets get lightly charred on the grill, giving them a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and shaved Parmesan.
This is a great way to switch up your usual salad routine. It feels hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also works as a side for grilled chicken, steak, or fish. Plus, it’s a smart option when you want something fresh without relying on leafy greens.
Helpful Tips
- Cut the broccoli in half so you can get the most surface area against the grill to get those nice charred edges without burning.
- Don’t skip the oil before grilling. A light coating helps prevent sticking and encourages browning.
- Dress while warm so the broccoli soaks up more flavor from the Caesar dressing.
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Grilled Broccoli Caesar Salad
Ingredients
- 2 small heads broccoli stem trimmed, cut in half
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
- 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan
- Lemon wedges for serving
For the dressing
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste optional
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan finely grated
- 1-2 teaspoons water if necessary to thin
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium heat.
- Drizzle olive oil over the broccoli halves. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a small skillet, add about ½ tablespoon of olive oil, the breadcrumbs, and season with salt and pepper. Toast in the skillet until golden and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayo, Dijon, garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire, anchovy paste, and Parmesan. Cover and chill.
- Grill the broccoli for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred. Transfer to a serving platter.
- Drizzle on some of the dressing. Top with shaved Parmesan and the toasted breadcrumbs. Serve with lemon wedges.
Nutrition
Laura is a home cook, with 25 years experience behind the stove, who spends an extraordinary amount of time in the kitchen cooking. She loves making new recipes and finding wonderful new things to eat, both at home or abroad. She spends a lot of time researching, crafting, and perfecting her recipes.