Are you tired of bland, store-bought Caesar dressings? Do you crave that creamy, garlicky, tangy punch that only a truly amazing Caesar dressing can deliver? Then look no further! This recipe, inspired by the queen of effortless entertaining herself, Ina Garten, will become your go-to for creating the perfect Caesar salad every single time. Forget those bottled concoctions; this homemade version is unbelievably easy, incredibly delicious, and will elevate your salad game to a whole new level. It's the perfect addition to your healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and, honestly, any meal that needs a little extra zing!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably high-quality)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated is best!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or more, if you love garlic!)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional, but adds incredible depth of flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, anchovy paste (if using), black pepper, and salt. Make sure everything is thoroughly combined.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want more garlic, lemon juice, salt, or pepper, depending on your preference. This is your chance to customize the dressing to your liking!
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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 beautifully.
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Serve: Toss your favorite romaine lettuce with the dressing, and garnish with croutons and extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your incredible homemade Caesar salad!
Tips for the Best Caesar Salad Dressing:
- Fresh is Best: Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese and freshly squeezed lemon juice will make a significant difference in the overall flavor of your dressing.
- Anchovy Paste: While optional, the anchovy paste adds a savory umami depth that many consider essential for a truly authentic Caesar dressing. If you're unsure, start with a small amount and add more to taste.
- Mayonnaise Matters: The quality of your mayonnaise will affect the final taste of the dressing. Choose a good quality brand for the best results.
- Don't Over-Whisk: While you want to make sure all ingredients are combined, over-whisking can make the dressing too airy and less creamy.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Caesar: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Lover's Caesar: Increase the amount of garlic to 3 or even 4 cloves for a more intense garlic flavor.
- Creamier Caesar: Add a tablespoon or two of sour cream or heavy cream for a richer, creamier dressing.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 150-200 (depending on the ingredients and serving size)
- Fat: High
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low
This easy recipe for delicious Caesar salad dressing is perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. It's a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients and a little bit of love. Make it your own, and enjoy the compliments! This homemade version will undoubtedly become a staple in your food recipes arsenal. Enjoy!