Homemade Caesar Dressing

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Creamy, tangy, and loaded with rich umami flavor, this Homemade Caesar Dressing is everything your salads have been missing. Made with fresh garlic, anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan, it’s blended into a smooth, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to romaine leaves and croutons alike. This version ditches bottled preservatives and delivers bold, restaurant-quality taste right from your kitchen.

Whether you’re building a classic Caesar salad, using it as a sandwich spread, or drizzling it over roasted vegetables, this dressing adds an irresistible layer of flavor to any dish. It’s quick to make, customizable to your taste, and miles ahead of anything store-bought. With just a few pantry staples and five minutes of your time, you’ll have a jar of creamy Caesar goodness ready to go.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Caesar Dressing

• Packed with bold, fresh flavors that elevate any salad
• Creamy and rich without being too heavy
• Uses real, simple ingredients you likely already have
• No preservatives or artificial thickeners
• Customizable – adjust the garlic, anchovy, or lemon to your taste
• Versatile beyond salads – try it as a dip or sandwich spread

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this Caesar dressing from scratch, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Blender or Food Processor – Crucial for creating a creamy, emulsified texture.
• Measuring spoons and cups – For precise ingredient ratios.
• Citrus juicer or reamer – Helps you get every drop of fresh lemon juice.
• Microplane or fine grater – Perfect for finely grating Parmesan and garlic.
• Glass jar or airtight container – For storing the finished dressing safely in the fridge.

Each tool plays a role in streamlining prep and ensuring your dressing turns out silky smooth, evenly seasoned, and fresh-tasting.

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Preparation Tips

For the best flavor, use high-quality Parmesan and fresh lemon juice. Let your egg (if using traditional Caesar) or your dressing ingredients come to room temperature before blending, which helps with emulsification. Anchovy paste gives that signature savory depth without overpowering the dressing—don’t skip it! Start with a smaller amount and taste as you go. If the dressing is too thick, you can thin it with a splash of water or extra lemon juice. Once made, let it sit for at least 15–30 minutes in the fridge before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

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Ingredients for this Homemade Caesar Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise (or 1 egg yolk + 1 cup neutral oil, if making from scratch)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 a lemon)
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons anchovy paste (or 3 anchovy fillets, mashed)
• 1 large garlic clove, finely minced or grated
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (more to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons water (as needed to thin the dressing)

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Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Before you begin, get all your ingredients measured and ready. Fresh garlic should be finely minced or grated, and Parmesan freshly grated for best flavor. If you’re using anchovy fillets, mash them with a fork or mortar and pestle into a paste.

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Step 2: Blend the Base

In a food processor or blender, combine the mayonnaise (or egg yolk and oil if making from scratch), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, anchovy paste, and garlic. Blend until the mixture is smooth and emulsified. If using a bowl and whisk, slowly stream the oil into the egg yolk while whisking vigorously to create an emulsion before adding the remaining ingredients.

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Step 3: Add the Parmesan and Season

Add the grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt to the blended mixture. Pulse a few more times or whisk to combine thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – you might want more lemon juice or pepper depending on your preference.

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Step 4: Adjust the Consistency

If the dressing is too thick, gradually add 1–2 tablespoons of water and blend again until you reach your desired consistency. It should be pourable but not watery, thick enough to coat salad leaves.

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Step 5: Chill and Let Flavors Marinate

Transfer the dressing to a glass jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to fully develop and mellow into a creamy, balanced dressing.

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Step 6: Serve or Store

Use the dressing immediately on romaine lettuce with croutons and shaved Parmesan for a classic Caesar salad. It can also double as a dip for veggies or a spread for wraps and sandwiches. Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 5–7 days.

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Notes

This Homemade Caesar Dressing gets better as it sits. Letting it rest in the fridge allows all the flavors—from the garlic to the anchovy to the sharp Parmesan—to blend harmoniously. If you’re worried about the anchovy flavor, start with a small amount and build from there. Remember, the richness of the dressing complements crisp romaine and salty toppings perfectly, so balance is key. Always taste as you go, especially with ingredients like lemon juice and salt, which can vary in strength depending on freshness and brand.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the anchovies: They provide essential umami depth. Without them, the dressing may taste flat.
• Using pre-grated Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts into the dressing better and adds superior flavor.
• Over-blending: If using a food processor, blend just until smooth to avoid a gummy texture.
• Too much garlic: A little goes a long way—especially if letting the dressing rest.
• Not tasting and adjusting: Flavors vary. Always taste before finishing to balance lemon, salt, and umami.

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Storage Instructions

Store the Caesar dressing in a sealed glass jar or airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 7 days. Stir or shake before each use, as some separation may occur. For food safety, if made with raw egg yolk, use within 3–4 days. Do not freeze, as the emulsion may break and the texture will become watery.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per 2-tablespoon serving:

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Sugar: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g

(Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does homemade Caesar dressing last in the fridge?

Homemade Caesar dressing typically lasts 5–7 days in the fridge, or 3–4 days if made with raw egg yolk.

Can I make this dressing without anchovies?

You can, but anchovies are essential for authentic flavor. If needed, use a splash of soy sauce or extra Worcestershire as a substitute.

Is this dressing gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the Worcestershire sauce and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?

Parmesan is traditional, but Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper, saltier flavor.

Is raw egg safe in Caesar dressing?

Many classic recipes use raw egg yolk. To reduce risk, use pasteurized eggs or substitute with mayonnaise.

What can I use Caesar dressing on besides salad?

Try it as a sandwich spread, a dip for vegetables, or a drizzle over roasted potatoes.

Can I freeze Caesar dressing?

No, freezing isn’t recommended. The emulsion will break, leading to a separated or grainy texture.

How can I make this dressing lighter?

Substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lower-fat version.

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Conclusion

Homemade Caesar Dressing is a flavorful staple that can transform even the simplest salads into a gourmet experience. Rich, creamy, and deeply savory, this dressing proves that a few pantry staples can create something extraordinary. Skip the bottled versions—once you’ve tasted the fresh, zesty punch of a homemade Caesar, you’ll never go back. Whether you’re making it for meal prep or elevating a weeknight dinner, this dressing is a game-changer in your kitchen.

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