National Caesar Salad Day

The story

National Caesar Salad Day pays tribute to the iconic Caesar salad, a beloved dish enjoyed not only in the United States but around the world. This delectable salad's history is as fascinating as its flavor, and it all began with the culinary genius of Italian chef Caesar (Cesare) Cardini. Contrary to what the name might suggest, the salad has no connection to the Roman statesman Julius Caesar.

Instead, it is named after its creator, Caesar Cardini. In 1923, Caesar Cardini opened a restaurant in Tijuana, Mexico, where he developed his signature salad. The story goes that during a rush on the Fourth of July weekend in 1924, Cardini found himself short on ingredients.

Undeterred, he created the Caesar salad from what he had on hand, tossing together romaine lettuce, coddled eggs, Italian olive oil, lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, and croutons. The salad was prepared with flair at the table, captivating the Hollywood stars and celebrities who frequented Cardini's restaurant. Interestingly, the original Caesar salad didn't include anchovies, a common ingredient in modern versions.

Cardini preferred the subtle anchovy flavor provided by Worcestershire sauce. His daughter, Rosa, even opposed using anchovies directly in the salad, emphasizing that the sauce was sufficient. Over time, variations of the Caesar salad emerged, incorporating different ingredients like bacon, grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, and various leafy greens.