There’s something unforgettable about simplicity done right—and the Fire-Kissed Caesar captures that spirit with style. Developed in partnership with chef Johan Magnusson of Big Swede BBQ, this reimagined Caesar salad brings bold flavor and unmistakable character to the table. Using open flame and premium ingredients, this dish trades croutons for char, swaps cold greens for warm contrast, and turns the side salad into the main event.

At the heart of the Fire-Kissed Caesar is fresh romaine, kissed by the heat of the Summerset grill just long enough to pick up smoky char and tender depth—without losing its crisp bite. Brushed with canola oil and finished with a herb-forward veggie rub, the greens are grilled until the edges caramelize to perfection. Add thick-cut bacon seasoned with Big Swede BBQ’s signature pork rub, grilled until crisp in a cast-iron pan or Summerset griddle plate, then crumbled over the top like salty gold—a generous drizzle of creamy Caesar dressing and a snowfall of shaved Parmesan seal the deal.

Whether you’re building a multi-course feast or looking for a quick, flavor-packed starter, this salad delivers. It’s everything a Caesar should be—just turned up with smoke, texture, and that Summerset edge.

For more food inspiration, follow our Brand Ambassador, Johan Magnusson of Big Swede BBQ, across social media and explore his entire line of award-winning rubs and cookbooks at BigSwedeBBQ.com.

Makes 6 lettuce wraps

Fire-Kissed Caesar Ingredients

  • 3 Romaine Hearts
  • Canola Oil Spray
  • Big Swede BBQ Badass Veggie Boost or your favorite herb rub
  • 4 slices Bacon
  • Big Swede BBQ Badass Pork Boost or your favorite sweet rub
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, shaved
  • 1 cup Creamy Caesar Dressing

Fire-Kissed Caesar Directions

  1. Pre-heat your Summerset grill by igniting all main burners. Then, close the hood and allow the grill to heat for 10 to 15 minutes; the hood thermometer should reach approximately 450°F. Turn off all the knobs except one.
  2. Season the bacon slices on both sides with the Big Swede BBQ Badass Pork Boost or your favorite sweet BBQ rub. Place the slices in a cast iron pan or griddle plate, and grill until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from grill and let cool. Break into bacon bits and set aside.
  3. Cut the romaine hearts in halves, rinse, and dry. Brush the inside of the hearts with the canola oil and season with the Big Swede BBQ Badass Veggie Boost or your favorite veggie herb seasoning.
  4. Place the romaine hearts, cut-side down, on the grates and grill for 1-2 minutes until you have visible grill marks. Do not overcook the romaine hearts; they only need some charring. Let the romaine hearts cool down, then drizzle with the Caesar dressing and sprinkle with bacon. Add shaved Parmesan and serve immediately.

Created by our Brand Ambassador, Chef Johan Magnusson of BigSwedeBBQ.com