Crispy Tater Caesar Salad

INTRODUCTION

If you are a Caesar salad lover and want a little twist in its taste, then this Crispy Tater Caesar salad is just for you. This recipe puts the flavor of the classic Caesar salad together with soft, golden tater tots to create a soft and smooth texture.

INGREDIENTS

• 8 ounces frozen crispy chicken cutlets
• cooking spray
• 2 1/2 cups frozen bite-sized potato nuggets (Tater Tots)
• 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, freshly grated with the microplane, portioned, and plenty of garnish (about 1 cup).
• 1 cup Caesar dressing
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 4 cups finely chopped Romaine lettuce
• 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Position 2 racks in center of oven. Lightly pan-spray baking sheets; place chilled chicken in pan.
2. Bake in preheated oven on middle rack until hot and crispy, about 20 minutes, turning fillets halfway through baking time. When cool, cut the fillets into bite-sized pieces.
3. Meanwhile, line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and add the tater tots to the even surface.
4. Bake on top-middle shelf of preheated oven until tots are tender and lightly cooked, 8 to 10 minutes. Spray the bottom of a bowl with cooking spray. Break each tater tote into thin pieces in a bowl.
5. Back to the potatoes; Bake until golden and crispy, 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle with ½ cup of Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake again until the cheese is melted, about 1 minute. Set aside to cool, about 5 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, mix Caesar dressing, lemon juice, anchovy paste, garlic, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and salt in a bowl until smooth.
8. Toss together the lettuce, chicken, remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until well combined. Pour half of the dressing into the salad mixture and toss to coat evenly. Add the cooled tater tots and toss until well combined.
9. Serve on a serving plate; drizzle with white balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

COOKING TIPS:

• For an extra touch, you can use homemade croutons for extra flavor.
• For a lighter version, you can replace some or all of the mayonnaise on the patty with Greek yogurt.
• Consider adding grilled chicken or bacon pieces to make this a savory dish.

CONCLUSION

This Crispy Tater Caesar Salad combines the classic taste of Caesar with the irresistible crunch of tater tots. Perfect for a fun lunch or a special side dish at your next dinner party. enjoy!