Creamy Caesar dressing with a smooth texture, made from garlic, anchovies, parmesan, and olive oil.

Classic Caesar Dressing

There’s something timeless about a classic Caesar dressing made from scratch. No shortcuts, no bottled versions - just simple ingredients coming together through technique to create something rich, balanced, and deeply flavorful.

This is the traditional method, where garlic and anchovies are slowly mashed into a smooth paste, forming the foundation of the dressing. It might seem like a small step, but it makes all the difference. Instead of sharp, overpowering bites, you get a mellow, savory depth that blends seamlessly into every spoonful.

From there, egg yolks and Dijon mustard create the base, and with a steady hand, olive oil is gradually whisked in to form a silky emulsion. This process transforms the mixture into that signature Caesar texture - thick, creamy, and glossy, without feeling heavy.

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brings everything to life, adding brightness and balance, while a touch of water at the end allows you to fine-tune the consistency exactly to your liking. The result is a dressing that’s smooth, rich, and perfectly seasoned, with just the right balance of tangy, salty, and savory notes.

Why Homemade Is the Winner

Store-bought dressings often contain preservatives, added sugars, and lower-quality oils that can dull the overall flavor. When you make Caesar dressing from scratch, you’re in full control - adjusting the intensity of the garlic, choosing a good olive oil, and balancing every element to your taste.

The difference is immediate: fresher, brighter, and far more vibrant than anything from a bottle.

Whether you’re tossing it with crisp romaine, drizzling it over grilled chicken, or using it as a bold spread in sandwiches, this homemade Caesar dressing elevates everything it touches.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Temperature Matters
    Use egg yolks at room temperature. They bond with the oil much more easily than cold eggs straight from the fridge.
  • The Whisking Trick
    If your arm gets tired, place your bowl on a damp kitchen towel. It will keep the bowl from sliding around while you drizzle and whisk.
  • Storage
    Because of the fresh egg yolks, this dressing is best enjoyed within 24 hours. Keep it chilled until you're ready to serve.

Recipe

10mPreparation
10mTotal
2
Ingredients
  • 160 grams (¾ cups) Olive oil
  • 2 pieces Egg yolk
  • 30 grams (2 tablespoons) Lemon juice
  • 20 grams (4 tablespoons) Parmigiano Reggiano
  • 4 fillets Anchovies
  • 10 grams Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves Garlic
  • Salt
  • Pepper
Instructions
  1. In a mortar and pestle, add the garlic, anchovies, and a pinch of salt. Mash until you get a smooth, paste-like consistency. Mashing them into a paste ensures the flavor is evenly distributed throughout the dressing.
  2. Transfer the paste to a large bowl. Add the egg yolks and Dijon mustard. Whisk everything together until smooth and slightly thickened.
  3. While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Take your time with this step - this gradual process creates a stable emulsion. As you whisk, the dressing will thicken and become creamy and glossy.
  4. Add the juice of half a freshly squeezed lemon. Whisk to combine and brighten the flavor of the dressing.
  5. If the dressing feels too thick, add a small splash of water and whisk again until smooth. This helps loosen the texture without making it oily or heavy. Finish by seasoning with freshly ground black pepper and adjust to taste if needed.
Nutrition Facts (per 100g)
  • Calories: 2328 kj/557 kcal
  • Protein: 6.3 g
  • Carbs: 2.1 g
  • Fat: 58.3 g
  • Saturated fats: 10.2 g
  • Fiber: 0.3 g
  • Sugar: 0.4 g
  • Salts: 0.6 g

Nutritional values are approximate estimates. If you have dietary restrictions or medical conditions, please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your diet.