Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it delivers bold, restaurant-quality flavor using simple ingredients. The creamy texture and balanced combination of tangy, savory, and garlicky notes make it incredibly satisfying. I also appreciate how quickly it comes together and how easy it is to adjust the flavors to suit my preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- I place the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce in a mixing bowl.
- I whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
- I slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously.
- I season the dressing with salt and black pepper.
- I taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings if needed.
- I refrigerate the dressing for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
- I stir well before using.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- I add anchovy paste for a more traditional Caesar dressing flavor.
- I use Greek yogurt in place of some of the mayonnaise for a lighter version.
- I add extra Parmesan cheese when I want a richer dressing.
- I mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
- I blend the ingredients in a food processor for an ultra-smooth texture.
Storage/Reheating
I store Caesar Salad Dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Since it contains dairy and mayonnaise, I keep it chilled until ready to serve.
I do not reheat this dressing because it is intended to be served cold. Before using, I stir or whisk it to restore its smooth consistency if any separation has occurred.
FAQs
Can I make Caesar Salad Dressing without anchovies?
Yes, I often use Worcestershire sauce alone for a savory flavor, although anchovies or anchovy paste provide a more traditional taste.
How long does homemade Caesar Salad Dressing last?
I typically store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in a tightly sealed container.
Can I use this dressing for more than salads?
Yes, I enjoy using it as a dip for vegetables, a spread for sandwiches, and a sauce for wraps and grilled chicken.
Why is my dressing too thick?
If the dressing becomes too thick, I whisk in a small amount of water or lemon juice until it reaches my preferred consistency.
What type of Parmesan cheese works best?
I prefer freshly grated Parmesan cheese because it melts into the dressing more smoothly and provides the best flavor.
Conclusion
I love making Caesar Salad Dressing because it is creamy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and seasonings creates a classic dressing that enhances salads and many other dishes. Whether I use it for a traditional Caesar salad or as a versatile condiment, it always adds rich and satisfying flavor to the meal.
PrintCaesar Salad Dressing
A rich and creamy Caesar salad dressing made with Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and savory seasonings. This homemade dressing delivers classic restaurant-quality flavor and works beautifully on salads, sandwiches, wraps, and vegetable platters.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dressing
- Method: Whisk
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Place the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce in a mixing bowl.
- Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
- Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Stir well before serving.
Notes
- Add anchovy paste for a more traditional Caesar flavor.
- Substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add extra Parmesan cheese for a richer dressing.
- Whisk in a little water or lemon juice if the dressing becomes too thick.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 115 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 12 mg
