Caesar Dressing

Lighter than most creamy versions, this homemade Caesar dressing is packed with the flavors of the classic but relies on Greek yogurt as its base. If you love Caesar dressing as a salad topping or dip, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and make you feel just a bit better about using extra.  While you’re changing things up, feel free to veer from the traditional romaine lettuce and add in some different greens or change up the vegetables altogether.  As a final touch, I highly recommend slices of delicious garlic bread on the side instead of croutons.

When I am inspired to make traditional favorites in new ways, Greek yogurt is one of the ingredients I love as a replacement for mayonnaise and sour cream.  You will even find it in my caramelized onion dip recipe.  Maybe you too are in the mood to put a new spin on some classics – or maybe you are just in the mood for Parmesan-laced goodness.  Here are the ingredients you will need and the simple method to make the tastiest Caesar dressing – all without the need to purchase a tin of anchovies.

Ingredients

¾ cup 2% plain Greek yogurt
1 medium garlic clove
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 ½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
¼ teaspoon salt
⅓ cup finely grated Parmesan
Freshly cracked black pepper

Even though there are no anchovy fillets or paste in this dressing, the uniqueness of Worcestershire sauce does come from anchovies, which are part of that flavor combination that makes Caesar dressings just so good.  I find that those who don’t like straight anchovy fillets in their dressings often enjoy Worcestershire sauce in the mix.

How to Make the Caesar Dressing

For the creamiest dressing, combine all the ingredients except the pepper in a blender or food processor until smooth. Season with a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper and stir to distribute. I prefer a lot of pepper in the dressing. Above, you can see the bits still peeking through after I stirred it.

Alternately, you can combine the ingredients by hand. First, mince then mash the garlic clove until it forms a paste, then whisk with all ingredients except the Parmesan.  Once combined, stir in the cheese and season with black pepper.

Whether you are looking for a lighter alternative to a creamy dip or feeling inspired to try a Greek yogurt Caesar dressing on your next salad, this is a versatile recipe that pairs well with greens and so many other vegetables.