Name: Caesar Dressing Recipe: Creamy and Tangy
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 anchovy fillets (minced (or 1 tsp anchovy paste)); 1 clove garlic (minced); 1/4 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2-3 tbsp water; Optional: Parmesan (lemon wedge); Suggested Pairings: Romaine lettuce (croutons)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Caesar Dressing is a classic, versatile condiment, perfect for salads, wraps, or as a dip for vegetables. Its creamy texture, tangy lemon, and savory anchovy notes create a bold, restaurant-quality flavor that elevates any dish. Presented in a white ceramic bowl, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan or a lemon wedge, this Caesar Dressing offers a fresh, inviting aesthetic. This recipe delivers a traditional Caesar Dressing, adaptable for dietary preferences, ready to enhance your meals with effortless sophistication.

Ingredients

For the Caesar Dressing:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 anchovy fillets, minced (or 1 tsp anchovy paste)
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup olive oil
2-3 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)

For Serving:

Optional: Grated Parmesan, lemon wedge
Suggested Uses: Caesar salad, sandwich spread, veggie dip
Suggested Pairings: Croutons, romaine lettuce, grilled chicken
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic bowl
Suggested Equipment: Blender or food processor, small bowl, whisk

Step-by-Step Process

Blend Base Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, anchovy fillets (or paste), garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, about 30 seconds.
Add Olive Oil: With the blender running on low, slowly drizzle in olive oil until fully incorporated and dressing is creamy.
Adjust Consistency: Add water, 1 tbsp at a time, blending until dressing reaches desired thickness (should coat the back of a spoon). Taste and adjust seasoning with more lemon juice or salt if needed.
Serve: Transfer dressing to a white ceramic bowl. Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan or a lemon wedge. Use immediately on a Caesar salad with romaine, croutons, and grilled chicken, or as a dip or spread. Serve with desired pairings.

Tips for Better Caesar Dressing

Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor; bottled juice is less vibrant.
Mince anchovies finely or use paste to avoid fishy chunks; adjust the amount for taste.
Blend thoroughly for a smooth, creamy texture; whisk by hand if no blender is available.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving; add more Parmesan for richness or lemon for tang.
Thin with water gradually to avoid an overly runny dressing.
Chill for 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors (optional).
Use high-quality Parmesan for authentic taste.
Enhance aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic bowl, garnish with Parmesan or a lemon wedge for a fresh look.

Variations and Customization

Vegan Caesar Dressing: Replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo, omit Parmesan for 2 tbsp nutritional yeast, use vegan Worcestershire sauce, and omit anchovies or use 1 tsp caper brine.
Gluten-Free Caesar Dressing: Ensure Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free; all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Low-Fat Caesar Dressing: Use low-fat mayonnaise and reduce olive oil to 2 tbsp.
Spicy Caesar Dressing: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or 1 tsp hot sauce to the blend.
Herb Caesar Dressing: Add 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill for a herbaceous twist.
Garlic Lover’s Caesar Dressing: Double the garlic to 2 cloves for extra boldness.
Egg-Free Caesar Dressing: Naturally egg-free with mayonnaise; confirm mayo brand for allergies.
Creamy Greek Caesar Dressing: Replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for tanginess.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Shake or stir well before serving to re-emulsify.
Do not freeze, as mayonnaise may separate; prepare fresh for best texture.
Serve chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor; avoid room temperature for over 2 hours due to dairy.
Use leftovers as a marinade for chicken or a spread for sandwiches.
Pair with crisp romaine or kale to balance richness.
Presented in a white ceramic bowl with garnishes for an inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings (2 tbsp each):

Calories: 150 kcal
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 1g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 2g
Vitamin A: 2% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 4% Daily Value
Calcium: 4% Daily Value
Iron: 2% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. These are high in fat and sodium; try vegan or low-fat versions. Pair with vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Caesar Dressing recipe offers a creamy, tangy condiment perfect for any occasion. It transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality classic. Its quick preparation and fresh presentation make it a favorite. The bold savory flavors, with elegant garnishes, elevate every dish. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its versatile appeal.