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Cos Salad with Anchovy Dressing and Parmesan

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This crisp romaine salad with anchovy dressing offers a sophisticated balance of bold, salty flavours and refreshing crunch. Inspired by the classic Caesar, this version focuses on high-quality ingredients, using punchy anchovy fillets, fresh lemon juice, and sharp Parmigiano-Reggiano to create a dressing that is both vibrant and deeply savoury. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a lighter alternative to creamy dressings without sacrificing the characteristic umami depth.

As a versatile vegetable side dish, this salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted fish, or a simple crusty baguette for a light lunch. The use of hearts of romaine ensures every bite remains crunchy, while the hand-shaved cheese adds a touch of elegance. Ready in just ten minutes, it is a reliable staple for effortless midweek dining or as a refined starter for a dinner party.

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Ingredients for Cos Salad with Anchovy Dressing and Parmesan

  • 5 flat anchovy fillets, finely chopped

  • 2 small garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon white-wine vinegar

  • 60ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 3 hearts of cos (20 to 625g total), torn into pieces

  • 170g Parmigiano-Reggiano, shaved with a vegetable peeler

How to make Cos Salad with Anchovy Dressing and Parmesan

Whisk together anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, and 1/8 teaspoons pepper. Whisk in oil.

Toss lettuce with dressing, then with cheese.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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