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A fork digs into romaine lettuce with Caesar salad dressing in a white bowl.
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5 from 4 votes

Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe

Making a Homemade Caesar Salad Dressing is surprisingly easier than you might think! With the tips and tricks outlined below you'll be able to turn a simple egg yolk into a luxuriously creamy, garlic and Parmesan cheese-flavored salad dressing that rivals any restaurants!
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian, Mexican
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 2-3 tsp. anchovy paste or 2-3 anchovies
  • 1 large clove garlic finely minced
  • ¼-½ tsp. salt to taste
  • 2 Tbsp. lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
  • ½ cup oil olive or avocado
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • tsp. black pepper optional
  • 1-2 Tbsp. water optional

Instructions

  • Mix the Anchovy and Garlic: Finely mince garlic clove on a cutting board, or use a garlic press. Add anchovy paste and salt. Smash the mixture with the sides of a knife until a paste forms.
    2-3 tsp. anchovy paste, 1 large clove garlic, ¼-½ tsp. salt
  • Make the Base: Place a towel in a medium-sized saucepan and then add a medium-sized bowl. (This helps to stabilize the bowl while you’re using both hands! This is NOT done on the stovetop.) Add the egg yolk, lemon juice, and mustard. Whisk vigorously until it begins to get frothy and bubbles form on top of the surface.
    2 Tbsp. lemon juice, 1 large egg yolk, 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
  • Emulsify with Oil: Drip in 1-2 tablespoons of oil, drop by drop, while continuing to whisk. Wait for it to thicken up and then slowly pour in the remaining oil, one tablespoon at a time. When done slowly you'll create an emulsion of ingredients.
    ½ cup oil
  • Bring it All Together: Mix in the anchovy mixture, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. If the mixture is too thick, slowly add in water until your desired consistency is reached. Serve Caesar salad dressing immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
    ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, ⅛ tsp. black pepper, 1-2 Tbsp. water

Video

Notes

  • Serving size is ~2 tablespoons of dressing.
Prep-Ahead Instructions:
This Caesar dressing is best enjoyed immediately after making, but you can grate the cheese if needed.
Storage Directions:
If you don't use all of the dressing, store it in an airtight container for up to 5 to 6 days. Freezing is not recommended.
Recipe Tips
  • Save time. Buy a bag of pre-grated Parmesan cheese at the grocery store.
  • Make it work. Sub in capers or Worcestershire sauce for this classic Caesar salad dressing.
  • Be careful. Placing a towel over the saucepan will keep the mixing bowl in place while you're mixing.
  • Elbow grease. Be sure to whisk the base well over the heat.
  • It's up to you. Finish with seasonings of your choice to make it your own.

Nutrition

Calories: 147kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 27mg | Sodium: 163mg | Potassium: 18mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 58IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 44mg | Iron: 0.2mg