There’s something about a good Caesar dressing that just sets the soul on fire—like a warm embrace on a chilly autumn day. I remember the first time I tasted a homemade version; it was a revelation, a concert of flavors that danced on my tongue and made the store-bought stuff seem like a distant memory. It’s funny how such a simple blend of ingredients can transform lettuce into a symphony of taste—well, let’s not get too poetic—but seriously, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their salad game.
Steps
- In a medium bowl, combine minced garlic, anchovy paste, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk these ingredients together until they’re well blended.
- Gradually add mayonnaise, freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the bowl. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, if necessary, and transfer the dressing to a container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for about 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 (such as Maille)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup high-quality mayonnaise (like Hellmann’s Real)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 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
- Is it necessary to use anchovies in Caesar salad dressing?
- Yes, anchovies are a key ingredient in Caesar dressing as they provide the distinctive umami flavor. However, if you’re not comfortable using whole anchovies, you can opt for anchovy paste, which is easier to work with and still gives the dressing its signature taste.
- Can I use regular Parmesan cheese instead of Parmigiano-Reggiano?
- While you can use regular Parmesan, authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano from Italy is recommended for the best flavor. You can identify it by looking for the name embossed repeatedly on the rind. If buying pre-grated, make sure it’s labeled “Parmigiano-Reggiano.”
- How long does homemade Caesar dressing last in the fridge?
- Once prepared, this Caesar dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
- Is it safe to make Caesar dressing without raw eggs?
- Yes, this recipe uses a mayonnaise base instead of raw eggs, eliminating any concerns about egg safety. The mayonnaise provides the creamy texture commonly associated with Caesar dressing.
- Can children make this Caesar salad dressing?
- This Caesar dressing recipe is straightforward enough for children to prepare. With a bit of supervision, they can easily whisk together the ingredients and enjoy it with some fresh romaine leaves.
Tips
- Opt for anchovy paste instead of whole anchovies to simplify the process and reduce the “fishy” flavor, making it more approachable for those hesitant about anchovies.
- Always choose imported Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese as it offers a superior taste compared to domestic Parmesan. Check the rind for the name to ensure authenticity.
- The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, so feel free to prepare it in advance for easy access.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference after mixing all ingredients, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors for your palate.
Equipment
- Whisk – If you don’t already own one, a whisk is essential for combining the ingredients smoothly.
- Medium Mixing Bowl – A medium-sized mixing bowl is necessary for mixing the dressing ingredients thoroughly.
