This Creamy Caesar Dressing is smooth, rich, and perfect for salads. With simple ingredients like mayo, garlic, and Parmesan, it brings great flavor to any dish.
You can whip it up in no time, and I love using it not just on salads but also as a dip. It’s like a party in a bottle! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mayonnaise: This is the base of the dressing, giving it creaminess. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead for a tangy twist.
Parmesan Cheese: The flavor comes from aged Parmesan. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast is a great substitute that adds a cheesy flavor without the milk.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dressing. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works too, but fresh gives the best taste.
Dijon Mustard: It adds a bit of sharpness. You can swap it with yellow mustard for a different flavor but adjust the amount to taste.
Worcestershire Sauce: This brings umami depth. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, look for a vegan Worcestershire sauce or use tamari for a gluten-free option.
How Do I Make Sure My Dressing is Creamy?
Getting a creamy texture is key for Caesar dressing! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Start by combining the mayonnaise with all the other ingredients in a bowl. Use a whisk for smooth blending.
- To achieve your desired thickness, add water slowly. Begin with one tablespoon and keep whisking.
- Taste it! Adjust the seasoning to your liking. More salt or lemon juice can really make the flavors pop.
- Finally, after preparing, let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and enhances creaminess.
Enjoy your creamy Caesar dressing in salads and as a dip! It’s super versatile and adds great flavor to many dishes.
How to Make Creamy Caesar Dressing
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 2-4 tablespoons water (to thin, if desired)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy Caesar dressing takes only about 10 minutes to prepare! Plus, allowing it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps develop its flavors, making it even tastier. So, overall, set aside about 40 minutes for the whole process.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, gather all your essential ingredients: mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and salt. These will create the delightful base for your dressing.
2. Whisk Until Smooth:
Using a whisk, mix everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You want to ensure no lumps remain, so really give it a good stir.
3. Adjust the Consistency:
If you like your dressing a bit thinner, slowly add water—one tablespoon at a time—whisking after each addition. Keep going until you reach the consistency you prefer. Some like it thick, while others enjoy a pourable dressing!
4. Taste and Customize:
Now’s the time to taste your dressing! Feel free to adjust the seasoning: if you want more salt, pepper, or brightness from the lemon juice, just add as needed. Remember, it’s all about your taste!
5. Chill to Enhance the Flavors:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the dressing to a jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This little waiting period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, give the dressing a good stir and serve it chilled over fresh romaine lettuce topped with crunchy croutons for a classic Caesar salad. It also makes a fantastic dip for veggies or chips!
This creamy dressing perfectly combines savory Parmesan and tangy lemon with mayo’s richness and a hint of garlic, ensuring your salads stand out. Enjoy every drop!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayonnaise?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt will give your dressing a lighter texture and a tangy flavor. Just use the same amount as the mayonnaise in the recipe.
Can I Make the Dressing in Advance?
Yes, this dressing keeps well! You can make it a day or two ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving, as it may thicken a bit while sitting.
How Long Does the Dressing Last in the Fridge?
Store your creamy Caesar dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Just be sure to give it a quick taste test before using, in case you want to adjust the seasoning!
What Can I Use Instead of Worcestershire Sauce?
If you need an alternative, you can use soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option. For a vegetarian or vegan substitute, look for a vegan Worcestershire sauce available at most grocery stores.
