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–+ servings

Easy Parmesan Salad Cups – Fresh & Crispy

Rose
These Easy Parmesan Salad Cups transform classic Caesar salad into a crisp, handheld appetizer. Golden baked Parmesan shells are filled with creamy Caesar salad for the perfect balance of crunch and freshness — ideal for parties, holidays, and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 12 cups
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • muffin tin or small heatproof bowls
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 150g)
  • 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 0.75 cup Caesar dressing
  • 0.5 cup croutons, lightly crushed
  • 1 cooked chicken breast, diced (optional)
  • 0.5 cup crispy smoked turkey bits or sautéed mushrooms
  • 2 tbsp extra Parmesan for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease the back of a muffin tin or prepare small heatproof bowls.
  • Spoon about 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan onto the baking sheet for each cup and spread into 3-inch circles. Bake for 5–7 minutes until melted and lightly golden.
  • Cool for 30–60 seconds until flexible. Carefully lift and shape over an inverted muffin tin or bowl. Let cool completely until firm, about 5 minutes, then remove.
  • In a large bowl, toss chopped romaine with Caesar dressing until evenly coated. Add diced chicken if using and mix gently.
  • Just before serving, fill each Parmesan cup with salad. Top with crushed croutons, turkey bits or mushrooms, and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results. Shape the cups while still warm and flexible. Do not overdress the salad to prevent soggy shells. Store unfilled cups at room temperature for up to 2 days. Fill just before serving for maximum crispness. Freezing is not recommended.

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 10gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 380mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 0.7mg
Keyword Caesar salad cups, cheese salad cups, parmesan salad cups, party appetizer
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