Tired of heavy, creamy Caesar dressings that leave you feeling sluggish? This Greek yogurt Caesar salad dressing recipe offers all the tangy, garlicky goodness of the classic, but with a lighter, brighter twist! It’s incredibly easy to make, bursting with fresh flavor, and a fantastic way to elevate your salad game. This recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and delicious dishes that are also surprisingly simple. It's one of the best recipes for homemade cooking that you'll find!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended for best creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, omit for vegetarian)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra cheesy flavor)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is thoroughly combined and the dressing is smooth.
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Adjust to Taste: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more lemon juice for extra tang, garlic for a stronger punch, or salt and pepper to balance the flavors. This is where your personal preference shines!
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Add Parmesan (Optional): If you’re adding Parmesan cheese, stir it in gently at this stage.
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Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
Tips for the Best Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing:
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of your dressing will be directly influenced by the quality of your ingredients. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and good quality olive oil will make a noticeable difference.
- Don't over-mix: Over-mixing can make the dressing watery. Gentle whisking is all you need.
- Adjust the consistency: If the dressing is too thick, add a teaspoon of water or milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If it's too thin, add a bit more Greek yogurt.
- Make it ahead: This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Caesar: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb-infused Caesar: Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill for an extra layer of flavor.
- Roasted Garlic Caesar: Use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor. Simply roast a whole head of garlic at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes until soft and caramelized.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Always check your ingredient labels for accurate nutritional information.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 7-9g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This Greek yogurt Caesar salad dressing is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional creamy dressings. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or a simple yet elegant lunch. Enjoy!