Ingredients

1 large English cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced

1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended)

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish

1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

1/8 teaspoon salt, or to taste

1/4 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)

Optional: Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein

Instructions

Step 1: Peel the cucumber and slice it thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Pat the slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Alternatively, sprinkle the slices lightly with salt and let them sit in a colander for 15–20 minutes, then rinse and dry thoroughly.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.

Step 3: Add the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl.

Step 4: Season the dressing with black pepper and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Whisk all ingredients until the dressing becomes smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, thin it with a teaspoon or two of water to reach your preferred consistency.

Step 6: Gently toss the sliced cucumber with the Caesar dressing in a large bowl until evenly coated.

Step 7: Just before serving, add the croutons and toss gently to combine.

Step 8: Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. If desired, top with grilled chicken or shrimp.

Step 9: Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp freshness and creamy texture.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, use homemade garlic croutons toasted with olive oil and herbs.

Substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise to lighten the dressing.

Add fresh herbs like dill or chives for a bright herbal note.

To keep cucumbers from releasing too much water, salting and rinsing them beforehand is key.

Include grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but English cucumbers tend to have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making the salad less watery and more tender.

How can I make the dressing dairy-free?

To make the dressing dairy-free, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based Parmesan alternative. The creamy texture from the mayonnaise will still provide richness.