Garlic Crouton Cups With Pesto Caesar and Parmesan Crisps

Prep Time: 20 Minutes

Cook Time: 10 Minutes

Ready In: 30 Minutes

Servings: 12

Try this unique and delicious take on a traditional Caesar Salad.

Ingredients:

12 slices firm white bread, crusts removed

olive oil or olive oil flavored cooking spray

1 teaspoon garlic salt

1 teaspoon dried basil

fresh ground black pepper

dole hearts of romaine, chopped

3 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted

1/2 cup olive oil

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

3 garlic cloves, pressed

2 teaspoons anchovy paste

2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons prepared pesto sauce

6 teaspoons shredded parmesan cheese, divided

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray 12 muffin cups with cooking spray.
2. Brush or spray each slice of bread lightly with olive oil. Combine garlic salt and dried basil. Sprinkle mixture over both sides of the bread. Season each with pepper.
3. Flatten bread slightly with rolling pin. Gently press each slice into a muffin cup, allowing edges to hang over cup.
4. Bake 10 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Remove from oven; cool.
5. For the Pesto Caesar Salad Dressing: Whisk together all ingredients until blended. Toss with DOLE Hearts of Romaine. Makes about 3/4 cup.
6. Toss lettuce with dressing; spoon into Garlic Crouton Cups.
7. For the Parmesan Crisps: Heat oven to 350 degrees F Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mound Parmesan in 1/2 teaspoonfuls on the prepared sheet. Bake 5-6 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Let cool 1 minute.
8. Garnish with toasted pine nuts and a Parmesan Crisp. Serve immediately.

By RecipeOfHealth.com