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This lush, velvety Caesar dressing turns basic stuff you already have into something amazing. It captures all those traditional tastes – bold, tart, and totally satisfying – and you can whip it up in just 5 minutes. What makes it work? The perfect mix of ingredients that create a dressing so flexible it makes everything better, from crisp lettuce to grilled chicken.
I've thrown this dressing together so many times for family get-togethers, and everyone always says the same thing: "This beats restaurant dressing hands down!" My nephew, who usually pushes salad around his plate, now asks for this exact dressing whenever he stops by.
Key Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: Forms the smooth base, giving that velvety texture that sticks just right to lettuce. Go for the full-fat kind to get the best results.
- Fresh lemons: Give that bright, zingy kick that makes everything pop. Skip the bottle and squeeze your own.
- Anchovy paste: Sounds weird but trust me – it adds deep flavor without making anything taste fishy.
- Fresh garlic cloves: Bring a sharp warmth that gets milder and better as the dressing sits.
- Good olive oil: Creates that rich feel in your mouth while adding subtle fruitiness.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds that complex savory taste that pulls everything together.
Whipping Up Your Caesar
- First steps:
- Get everything out and let it come to room temperature so it mixes better.
- Mix the base:
- Stir mayonnaise and olive oil together until they're completely smooth with no separation.
- Add the flavor boosters:
- Mix in anchovy paste and chopped garlic until they're completely blended into your base.
- Pour in the liquids:
- Slowly add fresh lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce, tasting as you go.
- Season it right:
- Sprinkle in salt and fresh ground pepper bit by bit until it tastes just right.
- Let it mingle:
- Give the flavors at least 15 minutes to come together before you use it.
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There's a funny story about the anchovy paste in our house. My daughter was so suspicious of it at first, but now she specifically asks for "the dressing with the secret stuff in it," knowing that's what gives it that special flavor kick.
Great Ways To Use It
This dressing can upgrade so many different foods. Pour it over grilled romaine for a smoky take on regular Caesar salad. Mix it with roasted Brussels sprouts, or spread it on grilled chicken sandwiches. It's also fantastic for dipping potato wedges or fresh cut veggies.
Make It Your Own
Tweak this recipe to match what you like best. Want something lighter? Swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt. Need dairy-free? Use vegan mayo instead. Love strong flavors? Throw in extra garlic and a bit of Dijon mustard. If you're into spicy stuff, add a pinch of cayenne or a few drops of hot sauce.
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After trying tons of different Caesar dressing recipes over the years, this one stands out as the perfect mix of classic flavors and modern ease. What makes it so great is how simple it is – just a handful of good ingredients coming together to make something you'll remember. Whether you're a Caesar salad purist or just looking to make your everyday cooking better, this dressing shows that homemade is always worth the tiny bit of effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long can I keep this Caesar dressing?
- When you put it in a sealed container in the fridge, this dressing will stay good for about a week.
- → Can I skip the anchovy paste?
- The anchovy paste gives it that real Caesar flavor, but you can use extra Worcestershire sauce or coconut aminos instead for a different twist.
- → Will this dressing work for keto diets?
- Absolutely! With just 1g of carbs per serving, it's perfect if you're watching carbs or following keto.
- → What else can I do with this dressing?
- Try it as a veggie dip, sandwich spread, or to flavor chicken and fish before cooking.
- → Is it okay to make this dressing in advance?
- For sure! Make it a day early and chill it. The taste actually gets better as all the flavors mix together overnight.