Homemade Caesar Dressing

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Creamy, garlicky, and rich with umami, this Homemade Caesar Dressing takes your salads to gourmet levels without any store-bought shortcuts. Whether you’re tossing it with crisp romaine, massaged kale, or drizzling over grilled veggies, this dressing is the flavor backbone that makes Caesar salads a classic for a reason.

Unlike the overly tangy bottled versions, this made-from-scratch Caesar delivers a balanced punch of anchovy, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan. It’s smooth, spoon-coatingly thick, and finishes with a lingering savory bite that keeps you reaching for another forkful.

What Kind of Anchovies Should I Use?

For authentic depth of flavor, oil-packed anchovy fillets are the way to go. They blend seamlessly and provide the umami backbone without being fishy. If anchovies aren’t your thing, a teaspoon of anchovy paste or even Worcestershire sauce can add similar complexity.

Ingredients for the Homemade Caesar Dressing

• Anchovy fillets: Essential for a deep, briny foundation.
• Garlic: Adds a spicy pungency that brings the dressing to life.
• Egg yolk: The key to a creamy, emulsified texture.
• Dijon mustard: Helps with emulsification and brings a sharp tang.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the richness with needed acidity.
• Parmesan cheese: Nutty and salty, it anchors the dressing.
• Olive oil: Smooth and peppery, it pulls everything together.
• Salt and black pepper: For seasoning to taste.

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How To Make the Homemade Caesar Dressing

Step 1: Make the Garlic-Anchovy Paste

Smash garlic cloves with anchovy fillets on a cutting board until they form a paste. A sprinkle of salt helps the process. This paste will be your flavor bomb.

Step 2: Emulsify the Base

In a bowl, whisk together the garlic-anchovy paste, egg yolk, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. The mixture should be thick and smooth.

Step 3: Add the Oil Slowly

While whisking constantly, drizzle in olive oil slowly to create a thick, emulsified dressing. It should become glossy and rich.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Season

Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan. Taste, then season with black pepper and a pinch of salt if needed. You can thin the dressing with a teaspoon of water if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Homemade Caesar Dressing

Serve your Caesar dressing immediately over chilled romaine, kale, or roasted vegetables. It’s especially great as a dip for crispy croutons or drizzled over grilled chicken.

To store, transfer to a jar with a tight lid and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Since it contains raw egg yolk, freshness is key. Shake well before each use.

What to Serve With Homemade Caesar Dressing?

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

A protein-packed meal that’s satisfying and crisp.

Crispy Garlic Croutons

Perfect for dipping or adding crunch to your salad.

Roasted Veggie Bowls

A creamy finish to smoky, charred vegetables.

Baked Salmon Fillets

Adds luxurious flavor to lean fish.

Garlic Bread

Use it as a spread for a tangy, cheesy twist.

BLT Wraps

Drizzle inside wraps for an extra hit of umami.

Pasta Salad

Toss into a cold pasta salad with cherry tomatoes and bacon.

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Want More Sauce & Dip Ideas?

If this creamy Caesar got you hooked, you’ll want to check out these other savory stars:

• Green Olive Dip for a salty, briny kick.
• Cream Cheese Olive Spread when you crave something rich and tangy.
• Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso to spice up your snacking game.
• Creamy Spicy Rotel Dip for party-perfect heat.
• The Ultimate Spicy Ranch Taco Dip if you want zesty layers of flavor.

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Have you tried making your own Caesar dressing before? Did you stick with anchovies or go with a vegetarian version? Drop a comment and share your twist!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dressings and dips on ChefAlchemy’s Pinterest and find your next kitchen favorite.

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