Chicken and cheese are a delightful combination. So here’s a different spin on the classic Caesar: Switch out the Parmesan for another flavorful cheese.

The idea comes from Landana, which makes a delicious Olives & Tomatoes Gouda cheese. The Gouda is flecked with sun-ripened tomatoes and mild olives, Mediterranean flavors that are delicious with chicken.

You can also use blue cheese, pepper jack, and flavored Cheddars like those from Cabot Cheese (Chipotle, Garlic Herb, Hand Rubbed Tuscan, Horseradish, Hot Buffalo Wing, Hot Habanero, Smoky Bacon and Tomato Basil, plus Jalapeño Light and Pepper Jack Light).

These days, kale has become a popular substitute for romaine in a classic Caesar Salad. We’ve included it as an option in the ingredients.

> National Caesar Salad Day is July 4th.
 
 
RECIPE: CHICKEN & CHEESE SALAD

In addition to changing cheeses, this recipe adds grapes and nuts/seeds.

The preparation time is 20 minutes.

 
For The Dressing

 
Preparation

1. GRILL. Cut the chicken breasts into strips and grill in a grill pan.

2. TOAST. Toast the nut mixture briefly (how to toast nuts).

3. MIX. Mix the dressing ingredients.

4. COMBINE. Combine the lettuce, chicken, cheese, grapes, and nuts into a serving bowl. Toss with the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

BREAD. This salad is delicious with fresh Italian ciabatta bread and (homemade) tapenade.

WINE. Serve this salad with a refreshing rosé or a crisp white wine.
 
 
CAESAR SALAD HISTORY

Here’s the true story about the origin of the Caesar Salad, and the original Caesar Salad recipe.

Caesar Salad was named after the restaurateur who created it. What would you call this variation of a Caesar Salad?