If you’ve ever wondered how to elevate your salads with a creamy, tangy punch, this Caesar dressing recipe is the answer. Forget the store-bought bottles—making your own dressing at home is surprisingly simple and tastes so much fresher. Originally created in the 1920s by Italian-American restaurateur Caesar Cardini in Tijuana, Mexico, this classic has stood the test of time. Its rich flavor, zesty notes, and smooth texture explain why it’s still trending today.
Why You’ll Love This Caesar Dressing Recipe
- Homemade flavor – fresher and more vibrant than anything from a jar.
- Simple ingredients – pantry staples come together in just minutes.
- Customizable – adjust the garlic, anchovies, or lemon juice to suit your taste.
- Restaurant-quality – creamy, tangy, and bold, just like your favorite Caesar salad.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Caesar Dressing Recipe
- Garlic – adds a sharp, savory depth that balances the creamy texture.
- Anchovies (or anchovy paste) – the secret to authentic umami richness.
- Egg yolk or mayonnaise – the creamy base that gives body to the dressing.
- Dijon mustard – brings tang and helps emulsify the sauce.
- Lemon juice – brightens and balances the richness.
- Parmesan cheese – adds salty, nutty flavor that defines Caesar dressing.
- Olive oil – creates a smooth, luxurious finish.
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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Caesar Dressing Recipe
- Prepare garlic and anchovies – finely mince garlic and anchovies (or mash them into a paste).
- Combine the base – whisk garlic, anchovies, egg yolk (or mayo), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice in a medium bowl.
- Add Parmesan – stir in freshly grated Parmesan for a bold, cheesy flavor.
- Drizzle in olive oil – slowly stream in olive oil while whisking constantly until the dressing is thick and creamy.
- Season and adjust – add black pepper to taste, and tweak lemon juice or cheese for balance.
💡 Expert Tip: Add olive oil gradually while whisking to ensure the dressing emulsifies and doesn’t separate.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- No raw egg? Use mayonnaise as a safe and easy substitute.
- Lighter option – swap some olive oil with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
- Extra garlicky – roast the garlic first for a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Anchovy-free – skip anchovies and add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
How to Store & Reheat
- Store: Keep Caesar dressing in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Shake before serving: Ingredients may separate, so give it a quick stir or shake before using.
- Do not freeze: Freezing alters the creamy texture, so enjoy it fresh.
If you enjoyed this creamy and flavorful Caesar dressing recipe, you’ll definitely want to try some of my other delicious sauces and dressings. For a protein-packed option, these Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are perfect for quick dinners. If you’re craving something bold and zesty, my Cajun Garlic Butter Sauce will instantly elevate seafood, pasta, or even veggies. And for a rich, authentic twist, don’t miss the Mole Sauce Recipe—a classic with layers of deep, complex flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make Caesar dressing without anchovies?
Yes! Replace them with Worcestershire sauce for a similar savory flavor.
Is Caesar dressing safe with raw eggs?
If concerned, use pasteurized eggs or substitute with mayonnaise for a creamy alternative.
Can I make Caesar dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely—prepare it a day in advance for even richer flavors.
This Caesar dressing recipe is creamy, tangy, and bursting with flavor—perfect for transforming a simple salad into something unforgettable. Try it once, and you’ll never go back to bottled dressing. Give it a whisk, drizzle it over crisp romaine, and enjoy a restaurant-worthy Caesar salad at home. Don’t forget to share your results and follow along for more delicious homemade recipes!
Caesar Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
- Garlic – finely minced for bold flavor
- Anchovies or anchovy paste – adds savory depth
- Egg yolk or mayonnaise – creamy base
- Dijon mustard – tangy binder
- Lemon juice – balances richness
- Parmesan cheese – nutty and salty
- Olive oil – smooth velvety texture
- Black pepper – freshly ground for a final touch
Instructions
- Mince garlic and anchovies into a smooth paste.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together garlic, anchovies, egg yolk (or mayo), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
- Add Parmesan cheese and whisk until combined.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking constantly to emulsify.
- Season with black pepper and adjust lemon or cheese to taste.
- Store in a jar, chill, and shake before serving.