Best Homemade Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe | Easy & Creamy
Best Homemade Caesar Salad Dressing is a rich and creamy blend of garlic, parmesan cheese, anchovies, lemon juice, and seasonings. This classic dressing delivers bold, savory flavor and a smooth texture that elevates any salad. Quick to make with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for Caesar salads, wraps, or as a dip. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back to bottled dressing!
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Mortar and pestle or knife for mashing garlic/anchovies
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Airtight container (for storage)
Ingredients
- 2 cloves garlic
- 4 anchovy fillets (or 2 tsp anchovy paste)
- 1 egg yolk (or 2 tbsp mayonnaise for shortcut)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mash Garlic & Anchovies: Crush garlic and anchovies into a smooth paste using a mortar and pestle or knife.
- Whisk Base: In a bowl, whisk egg yolk (or mayonnaise), Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
- Add Lemon Juice: Whisk in fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Emulsify: Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking vigorously to create a creamy emulsion.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in grated Parmesan until fully incorporated.
- Season & Chill: Taste, adjust seasoning, and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Dressing keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace anchovies with capers or miso paste for similar depth.
- Shortcut: Use mayonnaise instead of egg yolk for easier preparation.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container; stir before using.
- Pro Tip: Always use freshly grated Parmesan and fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.