What Caesar Salad Has to Do with Prohibition – and Why It Didn’t Originate in Italy

The Editors, 23.06.2026

For some dishes, their origin can be recognized by their name – but this is not the case with Caesar Salad. Contrary to widespread belief, the salad did not originate in Italy at all, but was invented in Mexico.

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Summer is traditionally considered the beginning of salad season – and one dish is almost impossible to avoid: Caesar Salad. Whether in beach bars or on the menus of countless restaurants, the popular salad can be found almost everywhere. Traditionally, it consists of romaine lettuce, croutons and Parmesan cheese, complemented by a creamy dressing made with ingredients such as egg yolk, anchovies and garlic.

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