Ina Garten Caesar Dressing Recipe
The Ina Garten Caesar Dressing Recipe is creamy, rich, and full of bold flavor. Made with fresh garlic, anchovies, lemon juice, Parmesan, and olive oil, this homemade dressing transforms any salad into a restaurant-quality dish. Learning how to make Ina Garten Caesar Dressing is simple and rewarding.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Garlic press or knife
- Small spatula
- Airtight storage jar
Ingredients
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 fillets anchovy, finely chopped, or 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest, optional
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 large egg yolk, or 2 tablespoons mayonnaise for a safer option
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Instructions
Prepare the Garlic and Anchovies
- Start by finely mincing the garlic cloves and anchovy fillets. Use the side of a knife to mash them into a smooth paste. This step ensures the flavors blend evenly throughout the dressing, creating a rich and balanced taste.
Combine the Flavor Base
- In a medium mixing bowl, add the garlic-anchovy paste, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined. This mixture forms the flavorful foundation of the Caesar dressing.
Add the Egg Yolk
- Place the egg yolk into the bowl with the flavor base. Whisk continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thickened. The egg yolk helps emulsify the dressing, giving it a creamy and luxurious texture.
Slowly Incorporate the Olive Oil
- While whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil. Adding the oil gradually allows the dressing to emulsify properly. Continue whisking until the mixture becomes thick, smooth, and creamy with a glossy appearance.
Stir in the Parmesan Cheese
- Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the dressing. Stir gently with a spatula until fully incorporated. The cheese enhances the savory flavor and gives the dressing its classic Caesar richness.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more lemon juice for brightness, salt for depth, or pepper for a gentle kick. This step allows you to customize the flavor to your personal preference.
Chill Before Serving
- Transfer the dressing to an airtight jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a more balanced and delicious Caesar dressing.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Substitute mayonnaise for the egg yolk if you prefer a safer, egg-free option.
- Adjust the anchovy quantity to suit your taste preference.
- Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Whisk or shake well before serving as natural separation may occur.
- This dressing is perfect for Caesar salads, wraps, sandwiches, or roasted vegetables.