Gluten Free Caesar Dressing

This homemade gluten free Caesar dressing brings classic creamy flavor to your salads without any eggs or gluten. It is rich tangy and loaded with savory Parmesan and anchovy notes. If you have ever felt stuck trying to find a store-bought Caesar that fits dietary needs this recipe solves that quickly and tastes fresher than anything in a bottle.

I started making this gluten free Caesar dressing after digging through countless bottles at the grocery store trying to avoid gluten and hidden preservatives. It quickly became something I would make for every special lunch or friends’ dinner.

Ingredients

• Mayonnaise: delivers the creamy classic Caesar base look for full fat quality mayo with minimal added sugars
• Minced garlic: brings sharpness and punch always go for fresh firm garlic bulbs
• Anchovy fillets: offer salt and umami opt for good quality tinned fillets packed in olive oil
• Lemon juice: adds brightness and tang fresh squeezed if you can
• Dijon mustard: brings gentle heat and depth a smooth Dijon works best
• Worcestershire sauce: is the secret umami boost ensure yours is gluten free check labels carefully
• Parmigiano-Reggiano: finely grated gives rich nutty savor choose a block you grate fresh for best taste
• Sea salt: enhances all the flavors try a flaky pure sea salt
• Ground black pepper: for earthy bite always freshly cracked if possible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Ingredients:

Measure and have all your ingredients ready on the counter. This will make the process super smooth and quick.

Blend the Base:

Place mayonnaise garlic anchovy fillets lemon juice Dijon mustard Worcestershire sauce parmesan cheese sea salt and black pepper in a glass jar. I like using leftover wide-mouth jars for easy blending and storing.

Emulsify the Dressing:

Use an immersion blender to blend everything until completely smooth and creamy. Blend for about one minute moving the blender up and down a bit to ensure even mixing.

Alternative Method:

If you do not have an immersion blender you can use a food processor. Simply add all ingredients and blend until creamy.

Taste and Adjust:

Taste the dressing for salt lemon and anchovy. Adjust seasoning to suit your taste by adding a splash more lemon or an extra pinch of salt if needed.

Store:

Pour the dressing into an airtight jar or container and place in the fridge. It keeps well for up to one week.

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I absolutely love the salty richness anchovies give this dressing. My family was skeptical the first time I insisted on using real anchovies but now they would not have Caesar any other way.

Storage Tips

This dressing stores beautifully in a sealed container in the fridge for up to one week. Make sure to use a clean spoon each time to keep it fresh. Do not freeze as mayonnaise based dressings tend to lose their creamy texture when defrosted.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a dairy free version use a plant based Parmesan alternative. If anchovies are not your thing you can use a teaspoon of capers instead for a milder briny flavor. For an extra tangy punch swap in apple cider vinegar for part of the lemon juice.

Serving Suggestions

This Caesar dressing is perfect tossed with romaine hearts or massaged into shredded kale. It also makes a wonderful sauce for grilled chicken or as a dipping sauce for veggies and fries. Try drizzling on roasted potatoes for a twist.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Is this dressing safe for gluten free diets?

Yes, all ingredients are gluten free, making it suitable for gluten sensitive individuals.

→ Can I make this dressing without anchovies?

You can omit anchovies, but they provide the classic Caesar flavor. Try capers as a substitute for a similar umami note.

→ How should I store homemade Caesar dressing?

Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use within one week for best taste and freshness.

→ Can I use a blender if I don’t have an immersion blender?

Yes, a regular blender or food processor works well for achieving a smooth consistency.

→ What salads pair best with this dressing?

This dressing complements kale, romaine, or mixed greens, and can be used as a dip for vegetables as well.

→ Is this dressing suitable for keto or low-carb diets?

Absolutely! With mayonnaise and minimal carbs, it's ideal for keto or low-carb meal plans.