Homemade Caesar Dressing

Mayonnaise: A creamy base that provides the rich texture of the dressing.

Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, tangy flavor to balance the richness.

Dijon mustard: Offers a smooth, slightly spicy taste that enhances the dressing.

Garlic: Provides a robust, aromatic flavor.

Worcestershire sauce: Adds a deep, umami flavor that is essential for authentic Caesar dressing.

Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, nutty taste that complements the other ingredients.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dressing.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.

When preparing this homemade Caesar dressing, ensure that the garlic is finely minced to avoid any large chunks in the final product. This will help the flavors meld together more seamlessly. Additionally, using freshly grated parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated varieties can significantly enhance the taste and texture of the dressing.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and tanginess while being lower in fat and calories.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar offers a similar acidity and brightness to the dressing.

• dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard has a similar flavor profile with a slightly more textured consistency.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar garlicky flavor, though it is less pungent and more convenient.

• worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a similar umami depth, though it will impart a slightly different flavor.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and nutty flavor, though it is slightly sharper.

• salt - Substitute with celery salt: Celery salt adds a slight vegetal note while providing the necessary saltiness.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar spiciness with a slightly different flavor profile and a more subtle appearance.

• To keep your homemade Caesar dressing fresh and flavorful, transfer it into an airtight container. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids work wonderfully for this purpose.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The dressing should stay fresh for up to one week. Always give it a good stir before using, as ingredients may separate over time.
• If you wish to freeze the dressing, pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When you're ready to use the frozen dressing, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
• Once thawed, give it a vigorous shake or stir to restore its creamy consistency.
• Avoid refreezing the dressing after it has been thawed, as this can affect the texture and flavor.
• For best results, use the dressing within three months of freezing.

• Place the homemade Caesar dressing in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. Be cautious not to overheat, as it can alter the texture and flavor.
• Alternatively, use a double boiler. Fill the bottom pot with water and bring to a gentle simmer. Place the dressing in the top pot and stir continuously until it reaches the desired temperature. This method helps maintain the creamy consistency.
• For a quick fix, let the dressing sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to help it warm evenly. This method is ideal if you prefer not to use heat.
• If you have a sous-vide machine, seal the dressing in a vacuum bag and immerse it in a water bath set to 120°F (49°C) for about 10 minutes. This gentle method ensures the dressing stays smooth and creamy.

• Blender: Use this to combine all the ingredients and blend them until smooth and creamy.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the mayonnaise and grated parmesan cheese.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the lemon juice, dijon mustard, worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.

• Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.

• Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the blender to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.

• Refrigerator: Store the dressing here until you are ready to use it to keep it fresh.

• Airtight container: Ideal for storing the dressing in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent any spills.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using pre-minced garlic instead of mincing fresh cloves.

Pre-grated parmesan: Opt for pre-grated parmesan cheese to cut down on prep time.

Lemon juice concentrate: Use bottled lemon juice concentrate instead of squeezing fresh lemons.

Batch preparation: Make a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Quick blend: Use an immersion blender directly in the storage container to save on cleanup time.