Mary Lou'S Easy Caesar Salad
A creamy, flavorful Caesar salad dressing with anchovy, garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, perfect for elevating salads and suitable for casual or dinner gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix egg, olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, sugar, parsley, garlic, green onion, mustard, and celery salt in a blender.
- Add anchovy paste and parsley flakes to the blender and blend until combined.
- Add Parmesan cheese to the mixture and blend until smooth.
- If the dressing is too thin, add another egg and more cheese to thicken it.
- Chill the dressing in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Caesar salad, use fresh ingredients whenever possible, particularly for garlic and parsley. If you’re short on vinegar, lemon juice can serve as a substitute. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. A little extra sugar can balance acidity if the dressing is too tangy. For a twist, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
Serving Suggestions
This Caesar salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp, making it a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside Lobster Tails On The Grill or a light pasta dish. You can also top it with croutons or toasted nuts for added texture. For a fun twist, serve with a side of Curried Crab Dip for an appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If it thickens, you can whisk in a little water or olive oil to reach your desired consistency before serving. It's best to add fresh greens just before serving to maintain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Lou'S Easy Caesar Salad contains roughly 789 calories, with 11g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 623mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
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 Caesar salad dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste. Give it a good shake or stir before serving to mix any separated ingredients.
Is it safe to use raw eggs in this recipe?
While traditional Caesar salad dressings use raw eggs, there is a risk of salmonella. To reduce this risk, use pasteurized eggs or make a cooked egg alternative. Alternatively, you can substitute with mayonnaise, which offers a similar creamy texture without the raw egg.
What can I substitute for anchovy paste?
If you're looking for an anchovy paste substitute, consider using Worcestershire sauce or capers for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, miso paste can also provide umami depth. Adjust the quantity to taste, as these alternatives can vary in saltiness.
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).