A Dish Born of Necessity

Sometimes, a dish is so good that it spreads throughout the world. One great example of this phenomenon is the most famous salad in the world: Caesar Salad. This simple dish, made with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan, and a special dressing, originated in Tijuana, Mexico, created by Caesar Cardini, an Italian immigrant.

Mr. Cardini and his brother had immigrated to Mexico and started a restaurant in Tijuana in the 1920s. Thanks to Prohibition, wealthy Americans began flocking to the Mexican border town to drink, which boosted the restaurant’s popularity. According to legend, on a particularly busy Fourth of July weekend, Cardini’s kitchen was running low on supplies.

To satisfy his guests, Cardini used the ingredients he had on hand: romaine lettuce, garlic, croutons, Parmesan cheese, eggs, olive oil, and Worcestershire sauce. What made the dish legendary was its preparation. Cardini served the salad tableside, tossing the ingredients theatrically to impress diners. This interactive presentation, along with its bold, tangy flavor, turned Caesar Salad into a hit.

It soon spread to California via the Americans visiting Tijuana, and by the 1940s, it had become a global sensation, appearing on fine-dining menus worldwide. Cardini even began selling bottled versions of the dressing. Today, Caesar Salad has evolved into countless variations—some featuring chicken, anchovies, or even kale—but its origins remain a testament to how creativity and innovation can thrive under constraints.

Craving more? Check out the source behind this Brain Snack!