Homemade Caesar Dressing Recipe

Introduction

This homemade Caesar dressing is rich, creamy, and packed with authentic flavors. Made from simple ingredients like olive oil, Romano cheese, and anchovies, it brings a classic taste to your salads that’s hard to beat.

A clear glass pitcher with a round, bulbous base and a curved handle is filled two-thirds with a thick, yellow dressing that has a slightly grainy texture. The pitcher stands on a white marbled surface. In the background, slightly out of focus, are a white plate with green salad and brown croutons, and a few lemon wedges with a whole lemon. The lighting is soft and bright, making the colors fresh and inviting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • ½ cup high-quality olive oil
  • 1/3 cup Romano cheese, finely shredded
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 dash salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 small cloves garlic
  • 1 whole anchovy filet or ½ teaspoon anchovy paste

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Romano cheese, white vinegar, egg yolk, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper for about 60 seconds until well combined.
  2. Step 2: Transfer the mixture to a food processor and add the garlic cloves and anchovy filet. Blend until completely smooth.
  3. Step 3: Refrigerate the dressing for at least one hour before serving to allow it to thicken and develop flavor.
  4. Step 4: Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Tips & Variations

  • Use fresh, high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
  • If you prefer a milder garlic taste, try roasting the garlic cloves before blending.
  • Substitute anchovy paste if you want a quicker and smoother option without chopping.
  • For a lighter version, replace half of the olive oil with Greek yogurt.

Storage

Store the Caesar dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to one week. Before serving, give it a good stir or shake, as some separation may occur. Do not freeze, as the texture may change upon thawing.

How to Serve

A black plate sits on a white marbled texture, holding a green Caesar salad with roughly chopped romaine lettuce leaves layered with white shaved Parmesan cheese scattered on top. Golden-brown croutons are spread across the salad, adding texture and color contrast. A lemon wedge is positioned on the edge of the plate. Above the plate, there is a small white bowl filled with more croutons, and two lemon wedges are placed nearby on the white marbled surface. A silver fork rests on the right side of the black plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pasteurized egg yolk instead of raw?

Yes, using pasteurized egg yolk is a safe alternative that still provides the creamy texture without the risk associated with raw eggs.

Can I make this dressing dairy-free?

You can omit the Romano cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative, but keep in mind this will alter the traditional flavor profile.

Print
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Homemade Caesar Dressing Recipe


  • Author: lilan
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: About 3/4 cup dressing 1x

Description

This homemade Caesar dressing recipe combines rich olive oil, tangy lemon juice, Romano cheese, and umami-packed anchovies into a smooth, creamy dressing. Perfect for salads or as a flavorful dip, it requires just a few simple ingredients and a food processor to achieve a classic taste that’s fresh and customizable to your liking.


Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • ½ cup high-quality olive oil
  • 1/3 cup Romano cheese, finely shredded
  • 1 Tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 dash salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Flavor Enhancers

  • 2 small cloves garlic
  • 1 whole anchovy filet (or ½ teaspoon anchovy paste)

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Romano cheese, white vinegar, egg yolk, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper for about 60 seconds until the mixture is well combined and slightly emulsified.
  2. Blend with Aromatics: Transfer the mixture to a food processor. Add the garlic cloves and anchovy filet. Blend on high speed until the dressing reaches a completely smooth and creamy consistency with no visible garlic pieces or anchovy chunks.
  3. Chill to Thicken: Pour the dressing into a container and refrigerate it for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the dressing to thicken and flavors to meld.
  4. Store Properly: Keep the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to one week. Stir before each use if separated.

Notes

  • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and smooth texture.
  • Ensure the egg yolk is fresh and, if preferred, use pasteurized eggs to reduce any risk of foodborne illness.
  • If anchovies are too strong, adjust the quantity to taste or use anchovy paste for easier blending.
  • The dressing thickens as it chills; you can thin it with a splash of water or more lemon juice if needed before serving.
  • Store the dressing in the refrigerator at all times to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dressings & Sauces
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Caesar dressing, homemade Caesar dressing, creamy salad dressing, anchovy dressing, Caesar salad sauce

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