Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile: Perfect for a variety of salads and as a marinade.
- Tangy and Savory: Combines the tang of vinegar with the savory taste of Parmesan and anchovy paste.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal ingredients.
- Light and Refreshing: A great alternative to heavier, creamy dressings.
- Long-Lasting: Keeps well in the fridge, ready for use anytime.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Water
- White Vinegar
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Sugar
- Anchovy Paste (optional but adds a ton of flavor and really makes it signature “Caesar”)
- Sea Salt
- Dried Oregano
- Minced Garlic
- Dijon Mustard
- Black Pepper
- Cayenne Pepper
- Paprika
Directions
- Combine Ingredients: Place all ingredients into a quart-sized mason jar.
- Shake Vigorously: Secure the lid and shake the jar vigorously until the ingredients are well combined and emulsified.
- Chill: Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Serve: Shake well before each use and pour over your favorite salad.
- Enjoy: Savor the tangy and savory flavors with every bite.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of vinaigrette, sufficient for dressing 8 to 10 servings of salad.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic twist.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or lime zest for a brighter flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the vinaigrette in a covered container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks.
- Reheating: This dressing is best served chilled. If it solidifies, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and shake well before use.
FAQs
What is Caesar vinaigrette?
Caesar vinaigrette is a lighter version of the traditional creamy Caesar dressing, combining classic Caesar flavors with a tangy vinaigrette base.
Can I make this dressing without anchovy paste?
Yes, you can omit the anchovy paste, but it adds a depth of flavor characteristic of Caesar dressing.
How long does homemade Caesar vinaigrette last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, it can last up to two weeks.
Can I use this vinaigrette as a marinade?
Absolutely! This vinaigrette works well as a marinade for chicken or seafood.
Is this dressing gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free.
What salads pair well with Caesar vinaigrette?
It complements green salads, pasta salads, and even grilled vegetable salads.
Can I substitute the vinegars in the recipe?
You can experiment with different vinegars like red wine vinegar or balsamic for a unique flavor profile.
How can I make the dressing creamier?
Add a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?
To make it vegan, omit the anchovy paste and substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Can I freeze the Caesar vinaigrette?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dressing as it may separate and lose its emulsification.
Conclusion
This Caesar Vinaigrette is a delightful and versatile dressing that brings a tangy, savory flavor to your salads and marinades. With its simple preparation and long shelf life, it’s a convenient addition to your homemade dressing repertoire.
Caesar Vinaigrette Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup (8–10 servings)
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Elevate your salads with this tangy and versatile Caesar Vinaigrette recipe! Lighter than traditional Caesar dressing, it delivers classic savory flavors with a zesty twist, perfect for salads or as a marinade.
Ingredients
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Water
- White Vinegar
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Sugar
- Anchovy Paste (optional)
- Sea Salt
- Dried Oregano
- Minced Garlic
- Dijon Mustard
- Black Pepper
- Cayenne Pepper
- Paprika
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add all ingredients to a quart-sized mason jar.
- Shake Vigorously: Seal the jar and shake until emulsified.
- Chill: Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Serve: Shake before serving and pour over your favorite salad.
Notes
- Optional additions: Fresh herbs, citrus zest, or extra cayenne for a personalized touch.
- Stores well in the fridge for up to two weeks. Shake before each use.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dressing
- Method: Shake and Chill
- Cuisine: American