Homemade Caesar salad dressing is a staple for any kitchen, offering bold, tangy flavors and a creamy texture that enhances salads, sandwiches, and even roasted vegetables. Skip the store-bought versions filled with preservatives and enjoy a fresh, customizable alternative that you can make in just 10 minutes.
Pair your Caesar dressing with a hearty salad or serve it as a dip for appetizers like Cajun spice chicken wings, which add a spicy twist to your table.
What Makes Caesar Dressing So Special?
Caesar dressing combines simple, high-quality ingredients to create a rich and tangy flavor profile. Anchovies and Parmesan cheese add depth, while fresh garlic and lemon juice brighten the overall taste. The versatility of this dressing means it can be paired with anything from traditional salads to grilled proteins like these Japanese-style grilled chicken skewers.
Essential Ingredients for Caesar Dressing
Core Ingredients
- Anchovies: Provide a signature umami punch.
- Egg Yolks: Key to a creamy and emulsified dressing.
- Olive Oil: Adds smooth texture and richness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Sharp and tangy, it elevates the dressing’s flavor.
- Garlic: A small amount goes a long way.
- Lemon Juice: Offers a fresh, zesty balance.
- Dijon Mustard: Helps emulsify and adds tang.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth and complexity.
Optional Add-ins
- Red wine vinegar for extra tang.
- Capers for a vegan substitute for anchovies.
- Chili flakes for a spicy kick.
For a twist, pair your Caesar salad with other bold flavors like this Greek couscous salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Homemade Caesar Dressing
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 2 anchovy fillets
- 1 small garlic clove
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mash the Anchovies and Garlic
- Finely chop anchovies and garlic, then mash them into a paste.
- Whisk the Base
- Combine egg yolks, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl.
- Emulsify the Oil
- Gradually drizzle in olive oil while whisking constantly to achieve a smooth texture.
- Incorporate Parmesan
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Adjust and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Creative Variations
- Vegan Caesar Dressing
Replace anchovies with capers and egg yolks with cashew cream or vegan mayo. - Low-Calorie Version
Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or light olive oil. - Spicy Caesar Dressing
Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of sriracha for a bold kick.
Serving Suggestions
Best homemade Caesar salad dressing is traditionally tossed with romaine lettuce, croutons, and shaved Parmesan, but its uses extend beyond salads:
- As a Dip
Serve with fresh vegetables or chips for a creamy appetizer. - For Sandwiches
Use as a spread for chicken wraps or burgers. - With Roasted Vegetables
Drizzle over roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes for added flavor.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration
Store Caesar dressing in an airtight container for up to 3 days. - Avoid Freezing
Freezing can cause the dressing to separate and lose its creamy texture.
FAQs About Caesar Salad Dressing
Can I make Caesar dressing without anchovies?
Yes, but anchovies provide the authentic umami flavor. Substitute with capers or extra Worcestershire sauce.
Is it safe to use raw eggs?
Use pasteurized eggs for safety, or opt for an eggless recipe using Greek yogurt.
How can I thicken my Caesar dressing?
Add more Parmesan cheese or a touch of mayo to achieve a thicker consistency.
What’s the best oil for Caesar dressing?
A high-quality, mild olive oil works best to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.
Homemade Caesar dressing is a quick, versatile, and flavorful addition to any meal. Pair it with fresh salads, grilled chicken, or even as a dip for snacks like these buffalo chicken wings for a crowd-pleasing combination. Try this recipe today and elevate your meals with the bold, tangy flavors of Caesar done right!