Introduction
Caesar dressing is a timeless classic that adds a rich, creamy flavor to salads and other dishes. Making homemade Caesar dressing is not only simple but also allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and taste. This recipe from Love and Lemons delivers a perfect balance of flavors, combining savory Parmesan with zesty lemon and garlic.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup mayonnaise
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, grated
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Pinch of sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: Approximately 1½ cups
To make the dressing, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, grated garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, adjusting the seasoning to taste. If necessary, thin the dressing with water to achieve the desired consistency. This homemade Caesar dressing pairs beautifully with a classic Caesar salad but can also enhance a variety of other dishes. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If you’re vegetarian, remember to choose a Parmesan cheese made without animal rennet.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1:
In a large liquid measuring cup or medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper until the mixture is smooth.
Step 2:
Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the dressing and stir to combine. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 3:
If the dressing is too thick for your preference, gradually stir in water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
Notes
Storage:
This dressing will keep well for about 5 days when stored in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator.
Vegetarian Option:
If you are vegetarian, ensure that the Parmesan cheese you use is made without animal rennet.
Yield:
This recipe yields approximately 1½ cups of Caesar dressing.
Cook techniques
Mixing
To ensure a smooth and creamy texture, whisk the ingredients thoroughly in a large measuring cup or medium bowl. This helps to emulsify the mayonnaise and oil.
Grating Garlic
For optimal flavor, grate the garlic clove using a microplane or fine grater. This releases more oils and enhances the garlic taste in the dressing.
Serving Consistency
If the dressing is too thick, gradually add water one teaspoon at a time until you achieve your desired consistency. This allows for precise control over the dressing’s thickness.
Cheese Incorporation
Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese gently to ensure an even distribution throughout the dressing without clumping.
Storage
Store the dressing in an airtight container or jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps maintain freshness and flavor.
FAQ
Can I make this dressing vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan version of Parmesan cheese.
How can I adjust the flavor of the dressing?
Feel free to adjust the levels of lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, or mustard according to your taste preference for a tangier or spicier flavor.
What can I use this dressing for?
This Caesar dressing is perfect for Caesar salads, but it can also be used as a dip for vegetables, a spread on sandwiches, or a sauce for grilled chicken.
Is there a substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
You can use soy sauce or tamari as a substitute if you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, keeping in mind the flavor will vary slightly.
Why do I need freshly grated Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan has a better flavor and texture compared to pre-packaged grated cheese, as it retains moisture and flavor compounds.
Conclusion
This homemade Caesar dressing is a creamy and flavorful addition to salads and other dishes. It combines the richness of mayonnaise with fresh ingredients like lemon juice and garlic, along with the savory depth of Parmesan cheese. With a quick preparation time and the ability to customize the thickness, this dressing is a versatile staple you can easily keep on hand for up to five days.
Caesar Salad
Toss your homemade Caesar dressing with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and additional Parmesan for a classic Caesar salad experience.
Grilled Chicken Caesar Wrap
Spread the dressing on a whole-wheat wrap, layer with grilled chicken, romaine, and extra cheese, then roll it up for a satisfying lunch.
Roasted Vegetable Caesar Salad
Drizzle the dressing over roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, and serve it atop a bed of mixed greens for a hearty side dish.
Caesar Pasta Salad
Mix the dressing with cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, olives, and artichokes for a delicious pasta salad that’s perfect for gatherings.
Caesar-Style Pizza
Use the dressing as a base sauce on pizza, topped with chicken, romaine, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, then bake for a unique twist on pizza night.
Vegetarian Caesar Bowl
Combine the dressing with quinoa, chickpeas, and assorted veggies for a nutritious bowl packed with flavor and texture.
