Homemade Caesar Dressing Recipe
Introduction
Homemade Caesar dressing is a rich, tangy, and creamy sauce that brings classic Caesar salads to life. Made with fresh ingredients and packed with bold flavors, it’s easy to prepare and elevates any salad or dish.
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
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, grated garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well blended.
- Step 2: While whisking vigorously, slowly drizzle in the extra light olive oil. Continue whisking until the oil is fully incorporated and the dressing is creamy.
- Step 3: Add the freshly grated parmesan cheese and whisk again to combine thoroughly.
- Step 4: Transfer the dressing to a mason jar or airtight container, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use.
Tips & Variations
- Use extra light olive oil instead of extra virgin for a milder flavor and smoother texture.
- If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a teaspoon of water or more lemon juice to loosen it up.
- For extra punch, add a dash of anchovy paste or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper just before serving.
Storage
Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before serving, give it a good stir or shake, as ingredients may separate over time. This dressing is best enjoyed fresh but will keep well chilled for several days.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular olive oil instead of extra light olive oil?
Regular or extra virgin olive oil has a stronger flavor that may overpower the dressing. Extra light olive oil is recommended for its mild taste and smooth texture, but you can use regular olive oil if you prefer a more robust flavor.
Does this dressing contain raw egg?
No, this recipe uses mayonnaise which is made from cooked eggs, making it safer and easier to prepare at home without worrying about raw egg safety concerns.
PrintHomemade Caesar Dressing Recipe
This Homemade Caesar Dressing is a creamy, tangy blend perfect for salads. Made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, it delivers all the classic Caesar flavors with easy preparation and no cooking required.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 1 1/2 cups (serves 6) 1x
- Category: Dressing
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Caesar Dressing 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
Instructions
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, the grated or pressed garlic cloves, 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Whisk these together thoroughly to start forming the dressing base.
- Emulsify with Olive Oil: While whisking vigorously, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup extra light olive oil to the mixture. Continue whisking until the olive oil is fully incorporated and the dressing has a creamy, smooth texture.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Fold in 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese and whisk again until evenly combined to add the signature savory depth of flavor.
- Chill and Store: Transfer the Caesar dressing into a mason jar or airtight container. Cover with a lid and refrigerate until ready to use to allow the flavors to meld together.
Notes
- Use extra light olive oil instead of extra virgin olive oil to avoid a bitter flavor and achieve a smoother dressing.
- Grating or pressing fresh garlic provides the best fresh flavor over pre-minced or powdered garlic.
- The dressing keeps well refrigerated for up to one week.
- For a thinner consistency, stir in a little water or more lemon juice before serving.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste after chilling if needed.
Keywords: Caesar dressing, homemade dressing, salad dressing, mayonnaise dressing, creamy Caesar, easy Caesar dressing
