Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Caesar dressing is incredibly easy to make and customizable to your taste. You can make it as creamy or tangy as you like, and it’s versatile enough to be used on salads, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even as a dip for fresh veggies. The addition of fresh ingredients ensures a superior flavor to store-bought varieties, and it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a homemade, healthier version of a classic favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon anchovy paste (or miso for vegetarian)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Gather the Ingredients: Place all ingredients in a mixing bowl or food processor.
- Mix the Base: Combine minced garlic, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Whisk or blend until well mixed.
- Emulsify: Gradually add olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the mixture until it becomes creamy.
- Add Parmesan and Season: Gently fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Store: Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to five days.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Lighter Version: Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a healthier and lighter option.
- Herb Boost: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil.
- Vegan Option: Replace Parmesan with a vegan alternative and use miso instead of anchovy paste for a fully plant-based dressing.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the Caesar dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- Reheating: No reheating needed as this dressing is best served chilled.
FAQs
Can I use a food processor to make this dressing?
Yes! A food processor makes it even easier to emulsify the dressing and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
Can I make this dressing in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together and taste even better.
Can I use anchovy fillets instead of anchovy paste?
Yes, you can use anchovy fillets if you prefer. Simply mash them up and use the same amount as the paste.
What can I substitute for lemon juice?
If you don’t have lemon juice, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy flavor.
How can I adjust the creaminess of the dressing?
To make the dressing creamier, add a little more olive oil or a tablespoon of mayonnaise. For a thinner dressing, add a bit more lemon juice or water to adjust the consistency.
Conclusion
This Easy Homemade Caesar Dressing is the perfect way to elevate your meals with a creamy, flavorful touch. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dressing that’s far superior to store-bought versions. Whether you’re dressing up a simple salad or serving it as a dip, this Caesar dressing will quickly become a staple in your kitchen! Enjoy the rich, tangy flavors of this homemade version that’s full of freshness and made with love.
Easy Homemade Caesar Dressing Recipe: A Creamy and Flavorful Addition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Easy Homemade Caesar Dressing is a creamy, flavorful dressing that combines Parmesan cheese, anchovy paste (or miso for a vegetarian option), Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. This dressing is perfect for salads, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and even as a dip for fresh veggies. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a simple and superior alternative to store-bought dressings.
Ingredients
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon anchovy paste (or miso for vegetarian)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather the Ingredients: Place all ingredients in a mixing bowl or food processor.
- Mix the Base: Combine minced garlic, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Whisk or blend until well mixed.
- Emulsify: Gradually add olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the mixture until it becomes creamy.
- Add Parmesan and Season: Gently fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Store: Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to five days.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil for an herbal twist.
For a vegan version, use a vegan Parmesan and miso instead of anchovy paste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
