Add the first 8 ingredients to a large unvarnished wooden salad bowl, in order, one at a time. Beginning with the garlic, after adding each new ingredient use the back of a soup spoon to grind it against the wall of the bowl and blend it with the previous ingredients into a smooth paste.

Add the oil and vinegar and blend well.

Just before serving, tear or slice the lettuce leaves into bite-sized pieces and add to the salad bowl. Toss thoroughly with dressing.

Add the croutons and cheese, toss again, and serve.