Recipe: Homemade Caesar Dressing

There’s nothing quite like a crisp Caesar salad, but what truly makes it shine is the dressing. While store-bought versions can be convenient, they often come with extra preservatives, too much sodium or unnecessary added sugars. That’s why I love making this Homemade Caesar Dressing. It’s creamy, flavorful and comes together in just a few minutes with simple pantry staples.

Why make Caesar Dressing at home?

When you make dressing at home, you have complete control over the ingredients, which means:

• Better flavor – fresh lemon juice, garlic and real Parmesan make all the difference.
• Healthier option – no hidden preservatives or added sugars.
• Customizable – adjust the seasonings, use less mayo or add more lemon juice to fit your taste.

Plus, homemade dressings feel like a little luxury. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to whip up something that tastes restaurant-worthy.

Tips & variations

• Lighter option: Swap half the mayo with plain Greek yogurt for extra protein and a tangier flavor.
• No anchovies: Use a little extra Worcestershire sauce. It won’t be exactly the same, but still delicious.
• Extra garlicky: Roasting the garlic cloves before adds a deeper, sweeter flavor.
• Make it dairy-free: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and vegan mayo.

Looking for a delicious way to use this dressing? Check out my Salmon Caesar Salad — it’s a nourishing, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. In addition to Caesar salad, here are more ways to use this dressing:

• Use as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.
• Drizzle over roasted veggies for a flavorful twist.
• Pair with grilled salmon, chicken or shrimp as a finishing touch.

This Homemade Caesar Dressing is proof that sometimes the simplest recipes can bring the most joy to your kitchen. It’s creamy, tangy and packed with flavor, plus, it takes just minutes to prepare. You’ll love how fresh and delicious it tastes.

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Homemade Caesar Dressing

Click here for a printable recipe.

Makes about 1⅓ cups.

Ingredients

• 2 small garlic cloves minced
• 2 teaspoons anchovy paste
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice about 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, anchovy paste, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Parmigiano-Reggiano and salt and pepper.
• Whisk until smooth and creamy.
• Taste and adjust seasonings if needed — add more lemon juice for brightness or Parmesan for a cheesier flavor.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Recipe notes

Nutrition information (1 serving ~ ⅙ of recipe): calories 190, carbohydrates 2 grams, protein 2 grams, fat 19 grams, saturated fat 4 grams, fiber 0 grams, sugar 1 gram, sodium 260 milligrams.

Andrea Mathis is a registered dietitian and owner of Beautiful Eats & Things. For more great recipes, visit beautifuleatsandthings.com.