This Caesar Salad Dressing recipe is truly one of the best you’ll ever make! It features a delightful combination of rich and bold flavors from anchovies, garlic, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and grated Parmesan cheese, giving it a savory depth and creamy texture that elevates any salad. The anchovies provide that classic umami kick, while the garlic and lemon balance it with a bright, zesty note. Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang, and Parmesan rounds it off with a nutty, salty finish.
Not only is this dressing perfect for Caesar salads, but it also makes a delicious dip or spread for sandwiches. Serve it with warm, crusty Italian bread, and you have a flavorful, satisfying meal that will impress your guests. The homemade touch makes all the difference, and once you try this, you’ll never want to return to store-bought dressings!
Table of Contents
What is Caesar salad dressing made of?
Mince 3 garlic cloves finely and place them in a small bowl. Add the mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese, anchovies, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Stir the ingredients until thoroughly combined. Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Are there two types of Caesar dressing?
Caesar salad dressing typically comes in two main varieties. Some versions are creamy, resembling ranch dressing in texture, while others are more like a vinaigrette, where the oil and water-based ingredients remain visibly separated. Both types offer different textures and flavors, catering to personal preferences.
Why is Caesar salad dressing called Caesar?
When you hear the name “Caesar Salad,” it’s easy to assume it was named after a Roman emperor. However, the salad gets its name from Caesar Cardini, an Italian immigrant and restaurateur credited with creating the famous dish.
What does an authentic Caesar salad contain?
Caesar salad features a classic combination of romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a flavorful Caesar dressing. The dressing blends olive oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and garlic, creating a rich and tangy taste. For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, opt for shaved Parmesan over the pre-grated kind—this minor upgrade greatly enhances the dish’s presentation and overall taste.
Can I eat Caesar salad while losing weight?
“Unfortunately, an entrée-sized Caesar salad may not be as healthy as it seems,” explains Lori Barrett, RDN. The main concern stems from its high sodium and fat content, which can turn what seems like a lighter option into a more indulgent choice than anticipated.
Is Caesar salad healthy?
Caesar dressing, typically made with mayonnaise, cheese, salt, and oil (often with the addition of anchovies), is not always the healthiest option. Its ingredients contribute to high levels of saturated fats and sodium. However, the good news is that many healthier versions are available today that use lighter ingredients while still maintaining the classic flavor of the original.
Ingredients
*6 peeled garlic cloves, divided
*3/4 cup mayonnaise
*6 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, separated
*five anchovy fillets, minced
*1 tablespoon lemon juice (add more to taste if needed)
*1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
*1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
*Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
*1/4 cup olive oil
*4 cups cubed stale bread
*1 head romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
Directions
Step 1:
Gather all your ingredients.
Step 2:
Finely mince 3 garlic cloves and place them in a small bowl. Add the mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan, minced anchovies, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir everything together until thoroughly blended. Season the dressing with salt and black pepper, then refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3:
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Quarter the remaining 3 garlic cloves and add them to the hot oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the garlic becomes golden brown, then remove it from the pan. Add the bread cubes to the infused oil, stirring often until golden and crispy. Once toasted, transfer the croutons to a plate and season with salt and pepper.
Step 4:
Place the torn romaine lettuce in a large serving bowl. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the lettuce, sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese, and add the seasoned croutons. Toss the salad thoroughly until the lettuce is evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 5:
Serve right away and enjoy your freshly made Caesar salad!
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 379 kcal |
| Fat | 36 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
RECIPE TIPS
ADDING BACON, AVOCADO, OR TUNA
Grill or fry six slices of bacon until they’re extra crispy, then let them cool. Break into bite-sized pieces and toss into the salad with the chicken. For avocado, halve, peel, remove the pit, and then thickly slice the flesh. Toss the slices with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning, and add them to the salad just before applying the dressing. Alternatively, thoroughly drain two 185g cans of tuna and flake the fish over the dressed salad for a tasty twist.
Notes
To make this recipe vegan, skip the cheese and substitute my Homemade Caesar Dressing with this vegan alternative:
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- One garlic clove
- Two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
- Two teaspoons of Dijon mustard
- Two teaspoons of drained capers
- 1/2 cup water
- Freshly ground black pepper
Combine the cashews, garlic, lemon juice, mustard, capers, water, and a few grinds of black pepper in a high-speed blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Conclusion: Caesar Salad
Caesar Salad is a classic dish that combines crisp romaine lettuce, flavorful croutons, and rich Parmesan cheese, all brought together by its signature dressing. Though traditionally creamy and indulgent, contemporary versions provide healthier alternatives that retain the bold flavors while lowering fat and sodium content. Whether you opt for the traditional recipe or a lighter version, Caesar Salad continues to be a favorite, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors that complement a variety of meals.