Caesar dressing is like a little black dress — timeless, reliable, and always in style. I remember the first time I tried making it from scratch, nervous that I’d mess up, but oh, the taste! It’s creamy, tangy, and, dare I say, life-changing. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a dressing that makes you feel like a chef without even trying.
Steps
- In a medium bowl, mix together minced garlic, anchovy paste, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Gradually incorporate mayonnaise, freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper into the mixture, whisking thoroughly.
- Adjust the seasoning to your preference and store the dressing in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for approximately a week.
Ingredients
- 2 small garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (from one lemon)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup high-quality mayonnaise
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1840 | Fat: 190g | Saturated fat: 10g | Carbohydrates: 10g | Sugar: 0g | Fiber: 0g | Protein: 20g | Sodium: 2960mg | Cholesterol: 130mg
FAQ
- How can I make Caesar salad dressing without using raw eggs?
- This recipe uses mayonnaise as a base instead of raw eggs, making it safe for those who are uncomfortable with using raw eggs in their Caesar dressing.
- What can I use if I don’t want to use whole anchovies?
- Anchovy paste is a great alternative to whole anchovies. It’s easier to use and provides the necessary flavor without having to handle whole fish.
- How long will this homemade Caesar dressing last in the refrigerator?
- Once prepared, this Caesar dressing can be stored in the fridge for about a week.
- What type of cheese is recommended for authentic flavor?
- Use imported Parmigiano-Reggiano from Italy for the best flavor. If it’s already grated, ensure it is labeled as “Parmigiano-Reggiano” rather than “Parmesan.”
- Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare this dressing in advance and refrigerate it. It will remain fresh for approximately a week, making it convenient for meal prep.
Tips
- When making the dressing, opt for anchovy paste instead of whole anchovies for ease of use, especially if you’re not a fan of anchovies. It blends seamlessly into the dressing and provides the authentic Caesar flavor without the hassle.
- Choose authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano from Italy rather than domestic Parmesan. The distinct taste of real Parmigiano-Reggiano elevates the dressing and can be identified by the embossed name on the rind.
- Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld together, offering a more robust taste when you’re ready to use it.
- Adjust the seasoning by tasting the dressing as you make it. This ensures the perfect balance of flavors tailored to your preference.
Equipment
- Whisk – Essential for mixing the ingredients smoothly.
- Medium Mixing Bowl – Necessary for combining all the dressing components.
- Citrus Juicer – Handy for squeezing fresh lemon juice efficiently.
- Garlic Press – Useful for mincing garlic quickly and easily.
- Grater – Specifically for grating the Parmigiano-Reggiano if you purchase it in block form.
