Name: Homemade Caesar Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Mayonnaise; 2 tsp Dijon mustard; 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 Garlic cloves (grated or pressed); 3 Tbsp Fresh lemon juice (from 1 large lemon); 1/2 tsp Salt; 1/2 tsp Freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 cup Extra light olive oil (not extra virgin); 1/2 cup Freshly grated parmesan cheese

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Every time I think about a salad, I can’t help but recall my first encounter with Homemade Caesar Dressing. It was on a warm summer evening, and I was hosting a small gathering for friends. I had decided to prepare a classic Caesar salad, but I wanted something special to elevate it beyond the usual store-bought dressings. That’s when I stumbled upon a simple recipe for Homemade Caesar Dressing. The moment I took my first taste, I was transported. The creamy texture paired with the tangy notes left me craving more! This dressing has since become a staple in my kitchen, adding flavor to salads, vegetables, and even grilled meats.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Grater, Mixing Bowl

What You’ll Enjoy About This Homemade Caesar Dressing

Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference

One of the reasons I adore this recipe for Homemade Caesar Dressing is its freshness. Using ingredients like fresh lemon juice and garlic transforms the dressing from ordinary to extraordinary. You can taste the difference when you use fresh components.

Customizable and Versatile

This dressing is incredibly versatile. While I love it on salads, I often find myself using it as a dip for vegetables or a sauce for grilled chicken and fish. It adapts beautifully to whatever I’m making, enhancing the flavors of my dishes.

Quick and Easy Preparation

Another standout feature of this Homemade Caesar Dressing is how simple it is to whip up. Within just a few minutes, you can combine all the ingredients, and you’re left with a delicious dressing that tastes like something crafted by a gourmet chef.

A Healthier Alternative

Making your own dressing also gives you control over the ingredients. You can avoid preservatives and artificial flavors that often sneak into store-bought options. Knowing exactly what’s in my Homemade Caesar Dressing makes it a healthier choice for my family and me.

Perfect for Entertaining

If you’re looking to impress your guests, this dressing is a surefire hit. It adds a touch of elegance to any dish and elevates a simple salad to something extraordinary. I often receive compliments whenever I serve it, and it never fails to spark conversation among my friends.

Storage and Longevity

Finally, I appreciate how well this dressing keeps in the fridge. After making a batch, I can store it in a sealed container and enjoy it for up to a week. It’s always a pleasure to have a homemade dressing on hand for quick meals.

Ingredients for Homemade Caesar Dressing

The ingredients for Homemade Caesar Dressing are simple yet impactful. Each component plays a vital role in creating the dressing’s distinct flavor profile. The key players include:

1/2 cup mayonnaise – This forms the creamy base of the dressing, providing richness and smoothness.
2 tsp Dijon mustard – Adds a hint of tanginess that balances the creaminess of the mayonnaise.
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce – Infuses depth of flavor with its unique blend of ingredients.
2 garlic cloves, grated or pressed – Imparts a robust and aromatic kick to the dressing.
3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice, from 1 large lemon – Brightens the dressing with a zesty freshness.
1/2 tsp salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dressing.
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper – A subtle spice to round out the flavors.
1/2 cup extra light olive oil, not extra virgin – Provides a smooth texture without overwhelming the taste.
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese – Adds a savory richness that is characteristic of Caesar dressing.

Recipe Steps for Homemade Caesar Dressing

Making Homemade Caesar Dressing is a fun and rewarding process! You’ll see how easy it is to create a dressing that rivals any restaurant version. Let’s dive into the steps:

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tsp Dijon mustard, 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, grated garlic, 3 Tbsp lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to mix the ingredients until they are well combined.
As you whisk, it’s time to introduce the oil. While whisking vigorously, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup extra light olive oil. This step is crucial as it helps to emulsify the dressing, making it creamy and thick.
Keep whisking until all of the olive oil is incorporated, and the dressing takes on a smooth, velvety consistency. Look for it to become creamy and slightly thick when it’s done.
Now, add 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese to the bowl. Gently fold it into the mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the dressing.
Once everything is well mixed, transfer your Homemade Caesar Dressing to a mason jar or a sealed container. This will keep it fresh and make it easy to use later.
Cover the jar with a lid and refrigerate your dressing until you’re ready to serve it. Letting it chill for a bit allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Great Combinations for Homemade Caesar Dressing

If you’re wondering how to enjoy your Homemade Caesar Dressing, you’re in for a treat! Here are some fantastic ideas:

Classic Caesar Salad: Toss your favorite greens, croutons, and a sprinkle of parmesan with the dressing for an authentic Caesar experience.
Grilled Chicken: Drizzle over grilled chicken for added flavor, making it juicy and delicious.
Vegetable Dip: Use the dressing as a dip for fresh vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes at your next gathering.
Wraps and Sandwiches: Spread it on wraps or sandwiches for a creamy kick that complements meats and veggies.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. This way, you’ll always have a flavor-packed dressing on hand.
Seasonal Pairings: This dressing is perfect for summer salads, but it also works wonderfully drizzled over roasted vegetables in the cooler months.

FAQ

Absolutely! While traditional recipes often include anchovies in the form of Worcestershire sauce, you can easily make a vegetarian version of Homemade Caesar Dressing. Simply choose a Worcestershire sauce that is anchovy-free or use a vegan alternative. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors without compromising on dietary preferences.

Your Homemade Caesar Dressing will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors tend to deepen over time, which means it can be even more delicious a few days after making it. Just give it a good shake or stir before using to ensure everything is well mixed again.

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in your Homemade Caesar Dressing for a lighter version! This will give you a tangy flavor while maintaining a creamy texture. Just remember that using yogurt will change the overall taste, but many people enjoy the twist it gives to the classic dressing.

While it is possible to freeze Homemade Caesar Dressing, I would recommend only doing so if absolutely necessary. The dressing may change in texture once thawed, and the creaminess might not be the same as it was fresh. If you decide to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator when you’re ready to use it.

Conclusion

The beauty of Homemade Caesar Dressing lies in its rich flavor and simplicity. It’s a staple that can elevate your salads and meals, making them feel special without much effort. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the delightful taste of homemade dressing. It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s about bringing a piece of love to your table.