Creamy Caesar Dressing

Prep: 10 min Serves: 2 Cuisine: American

A rich and tangy creamy Caesar dressing with savory Parmesan and anchovies, perfect for salads and dipping, appealing to those who love bold, umami flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated fine
  • 2 to 4 anchovies, mashed

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients and mix until smooth.
  2. Cover and chill before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. If you're not a fan of anchovies, you can add a bit of Worcestershire sauce for a similar umami flavor. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for easier blending. This dressing can also be adjusted by adding more milk for a thinner consistency, or more Parmesan for added richness.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy Caesar dressing is perfect for drizzling over crisp romaine lettuce and croutons. It also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty salad. Consider serving it alongside Egg Pancakes for a delightful brunch spread, or use it as a dip for fresh vegetables at your next gathering.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will meld and improve as it sits. If the dressing thickens too much, simply whisk in a little milk to reach your desired consistency before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change once thawed.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Creamy Caesar Dressing contains roughly 297 calories, with 13g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 471mg per serving (20% of the Daily Value).

297 kcal 15% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13g 26% DV
Total Fat 14.8g 19% DV
Carbs 23.8g 9% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 7.8g 16% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 470.8mg 20% DV
Potassium 293.2mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 6.9mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 40.2mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 2.3mg 3% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 1% DV
Calcium 309.6mg 24% DV
Iron 2.6mg 15% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dressing vegan?

Yes, you can create a vegan version by using a plant-based mayonnaise and substituting the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast. This will still give you a creamy texture and a savory flavor that complements salads beautifully.

How can I adjust the flavor of the dressing?

If you prefer a tangier dressing, increase the amount of cider vinegar. For a more robust flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a dash of Dijon mustard. Tasting as you mix will help you find the perfect balance for your palate.

What should I serve this dressing with?

This dressing is traditionally used on Caesar salads, but it also works well with grilled vegetables, as a sandwich spread, or as a dip for appetizers. Try it with fresh crudités or even drizzled over a warm Bittersweet Chocolate Cake for an unexpected twist.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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