Are you a salad lover looking for ways to elevate your go-to greens game? Look no further than the classic, creamy Caesar dressing. This rich and tangy condiment has been a staple in many a salad enthusiast’s repertoire for decades, and for good reason: it adds a depth of flavor and velvety texture that’s hard to resist. But why settle for just one way when you can have them all? In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 creamy Caesar dressing recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
From classic takes on the original recipe to creative twists incorporating everything from garlic and anchovies to cashews and sun-dried tomatoes, these recipes offer a world of flavor possibilities. Whether you’re a vegan looking for a dairy-free option or a meat-lover seeking to add some bacon-y goodness to your greens, we’ve got you covered.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to take your salad game to the next level with these 18 creamy Caesar dressing recipes that are sure to become your new favorites!
Classic Homemade Caesar Dressing
This iconic salad dressing recipe is a timeless favorite, perfect for topping crisp romaine lettuce and croutons. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic mixing, you’ll be enjoying this creamy, tangy goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly shredded is best)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None
Garlicky Anchovy Caesar Dressing
This rich and savory dressing combines the pungency of garlic, the umami of anchovies, and the brightness of lemon to create a unique and addictive flavor profile. Perfect for tossing with romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 anchovy fillets, finely minced (about 1 tablespoon)
– 1 egg yolk
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, garlic, anchovy fillets, egg yolk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon-Parmesan Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this creamy and tangy Lemon-Parmesan Caesar Dressing. This recipe combines the richness of Parmesan cheese with the brightness of lemon juice, making it perfect for salads, marinades, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese until well combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None required! This dressing is ready when you need it.
Vegan Cashew Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salads with this creamy and tangy vegan cashew Caesar dressing, perfect for a satisfying meal or as a dip for your favorite snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cashews
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the cashews, then blend with 1/4 cup fresh water until smooth.
3. Add apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the blender.
4. Blend until well combined and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
Cooking Time: None
Avocado Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salads with this creamy and tangy Avocado Caesar Dressing, made with fresh avocado and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop out the flesh into a blender or food processor.
2. Add lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to the blender.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. With the blender still running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
5. Continue blending until well combined and emulsified.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups of dressing
Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this tangy and rich Greek yogurt-based Caesar dressing, perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a dip for veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Stir in chopped parsley.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this bold and creamy Spicy Sriracha Caesar Dressing, infused with the spicy kick of sriracha sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2-3 dashes sriracha sauce (depending on desired level of heat)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Add sriracha sauce and blend until well combined.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (hands-on time)
This Spicy Sriracha Caesar Dressing is perfect for those who like a little heat in their salads. The sriracha adds a spicy kick, while the Parmesan cheese provides a rich and creamy texture. Enjoy!
Roasted Garlic Caesar Dressing
Transform your salads with a rich and creamy Roasted Garlic Caesar Dressing, infused with the deep flavor of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves of regular garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup mayonnaise
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the garlic cloves on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold into a packet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the garlic is tender and mashed when pressed.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted garlic, lemon juice, regular garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and mayonnaise until well combined.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting) + 5 minutes (blending)
Herb-Infused Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this herb-infused twist on the classic Caesar dressing. This recipe combines the tanginess of garlic and lemon with the subtle flavors of fresh herbs, creating a truly unique and delicious condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and dill.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Transfer dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (prep only)
Smoky Chipotle Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this smoky twist on the classic Caesar dressing. A perfect blend of spicy and savory, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 egg yolk
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add chipotle peppers, egg yolk, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is best served chilled, so refrigerate after preparation.
Keto-Friendly Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this creamy and tangy keto-friendly Caesar dressing, perfect for low-carb enthusiasts!
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup (120ml) avocado oil
• 1/4 cup (60g) freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon (15g) Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese (make sure it’s a low-carb option)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado oil, lemon juice, garlic, egg yolk, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (blending time only)
Tangy Buttermilk Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salads with this refreshing take on the classic Caesar dressing. A tangy buttermilk twist adds a creamy and zesty flavor to this timeless favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, yogurt, buttermilk, lemon juice, garlic, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. If using Parmesan cheese, stir it in just before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this creamy and flavorful Sun-Dried Tomato Caesar Dressing, perfect for topping mixed greens, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the dressing is emulsified and thickened.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Creamy Tahini Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salads with this creamy and nutty twist on the classic Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg yolk
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, egg yolk, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Add garlic, if using, and blend again to combine.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the dressing is creamy and well combined.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Bacon-Bit Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this creamy and savory Bacon-Bit Caesar Dressing. By incorporating crispy bacon bits into the traditional Caesar recipe, you’ll add depth and smokiness to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 tablespoons crispy bacon bits (cooked and crumbled)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Stir in crumbled bacon bits.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Lightened-Up Caesar Dressing
This lightened-up Caesar dressing recipe reduces the calories and fat of traditional Caesar dressing without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for salad lovers looking to make a healthier choice!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup low-fat mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped parsley.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to use straight away.
Mustard-Kissed Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this tangy twist on the classic Caesar dressing, featuring a hint of mustard for added depth and complexity. This recipe is perfect for those who love a good balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, mustard, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovy paste (if using). Blend until smooth.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste, then blend again.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled, or use as a dip for your favorite snacks.
Cooking Time: None
Extra Cheesy Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this rich and creamy Extra Cheesy Caesar Dressing recipe. With a generous helping of Parmesan cheese, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your salad game with these 18 creamy Caesar dressing recipes! From classic and garlicky to vegan and spicy, there’s something for every taste bud. Try making homemade Caesar dressing from scratch or mix things up with unique twists like lemon-parmesan or avocado. Even vegans and keto enthusiasts will find a recipe that suits their dietary needs. With flavors ranging from smoky chipotle to tangy buttermilk, you’ll never get bored of this beloved salad topping again.