Caesar salad is a classic dish that’s loved for its rich, tangy dressing. Today, we’re sharing our favorite recipe for Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe, which you can easily make at home.
This recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you whisk it by hand or use a blender or food processor, the result will be a creamy, flavorful dressing that rivals your favorite restaurant version.
What so Special About Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing?
The Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing stands out for its rich, creamy texture and bold flavors. Anchovies, often a surprising ingredient, add a deep umami taste that elevates the dressing. Fresh garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of egg yolk with Dijon mustard create a luscious, tangy base.
This dressing perfectly balances creaminess with a zesty kick, making it a memorable addition to any salad. Whether you’re a Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this dressing promises a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Ingredients for Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing
- 1 fresh garlic clove, minced into a paste
- 2 anchovy fillets, minced into a paste
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ⅓ cup neutral oil (avocado oil recommended)
- 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment & Tools Required
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Blender or food processor (optional)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cheesecake Factory Caesar Dressing Recipe
Step-01: Prepare the Garlic and Anchovies
Begin by mincing the garlic clove and anchovy fillets. You want to chop them very finely, turning them into a paste. This step can be done by mincing them first and then dragging your knife across the cutting board to achieve a smooth consistency. If you prefer, you can use a blender or food processor to make quick work of this step.
Step-02: Create the Dressing Base
In a mixing bowl, combine one egg yolk, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.
Step-03: Add the Oil
Slowly stream in the neutral oil (we recommend avocado oil) while continuously whisking. This gradual addition of oil allows the dressing to thicken and become creamy. If you’re using a blender or food processor, you can add the oil all at once and blend until the dressing is emulsified.
Step-04: Incorporate the Garlic, Anchovies, and Parmesan
Add the garlic and anchovy paste to the dressing, followed by four tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.
Finally, season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. And there you have it—a creamy, flavorful Caesar dressing that will elevate any salad!
Pairing Ideas for Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing
1. Classic Caesar Salad
Toss the dressing with crisp romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, and extra Parmesan cheese for a traditional Caesar salad. It’s a timeless pairing that never disappoints.
2. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Add grilled chicken breast to your Caesar salad for a protein-packed meal. The smoky flavor of the chicken pairs perfectly with the tangy, creamy dressing.
3. Shrimp Caesar Salad
For a seafood twist, top your salad with grilled or sautéed shrimp. The combination of juicy shrimp and Caesar dressing creates a delightful contrast in flavors.
4. Caesar Wraps
Use the dressing as a spread for wraps. Combine grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, and Parmesan cheese in a whole wheat tortilla for a quick and delicious lunch.
5. Caesar Pasta Salad
Mix the dressing with cooked pasta, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan for a hearty pasta salad. It’s a perfect dish for picnics or potlucks.
6. Roasted Vegetables
Drizzle the Caesar dressing over roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or roasted potatoes. The dressing adds a rich, savory flavor that elevates the veggies.
7. Caesar Potato Salad
Use the dressing in place of mayonnaise for a Caesar-style potato salad. Toss boiled baby potatoes with the dressing, crispy bacon, and fresh parsley for a creamy and tangy side dish.
8. Steak Caesar Salad
Pair the dressing with a juicy, grilled steak. Serve the steak over a bed of romaine lettuce with shaved Parmesan and croutons for a hearty, satisfying meal.
9. Caesar Dip
Serve the dressing as a dip for fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. It’s a great appetizer or snack for parties and gatherings.
10. Caesar Deviled Eggs
For a unique appetizer, mix the Caesar dressing into the yolk mixture for deviled eggs. Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a small anchovy fillet for a gourmet twist on a classic dish.
Tips on Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese are key to achieving the best flavor. Fresh ingredients will elevate the taste of your dressing, making it richer and more vibrant.
2. Chill Your Bowl
For easier emulsification, chill your mixing bowl in the fridge before starting. A cold bowl helps the dressing thicken more quickly as you whisk.
3. Mince Garlic and Anchovies into a Paste
To get the smoothest consistency, mince the garlic and anchovies as finely as possible. You can use the flat side of your knife to press the mixture into a paste, ensuring it blends seamlessly into the dressing.
4. Slowly Add Oil
When adding oil to the egg yolk mixture, go slowly. Streaming the oil in gradually while whisking ensures the dressing emulsifies properly, giving you that creamy texture.
5. Substitute Oil
If you prefer a different flavor profile, try using extra virgin olive oil instead of avocado oil. It will add a richer, more robust taste to the dressing.
6. Adjust Lemon Juice
Everyone has different tastes when it comes to acidity. Start with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, but feel free to add a little more if you like your dressing with an extra tangy kick.
7. Use Pasteurized Eggs
If you’re concerned about using raw egg yolks, opt for pasteurized eggs, which are safe to eat raw and will still give you that creamy texture without the risk.
8. Blender Shortcut
For a quicker method, use a blender or food processor. Just add all the ingredients except the oil, blend, and then slowly stream in the oil while the machine is running. This method guarantees a smooth and creamy dressing in no time.
9. Season Gradually
Start with a small amount of salt and pepper, and taste as you go. Remember, the Parmesan cheese adds saltiness, so it’s easy to over-season.
10. Store Properly
If you have leftovers, store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Before using it again, give it a good stir as the ingredients may separate over time.
How to Store Leftover Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing?
Store leftover Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Since it contains raw egg yolk, it’s best to use it within 2-3 days to ensure freshness and safety. Before serving, give the dressing a good stir as it may separate slightly in the fridge. Enjoy the same creamy taste every time!
Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 fresh garlic clove minced into a paste
- 2 anchovy fillets minced into a paste
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ⅓ cup neutral oil avocado oil recommended
- 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by mincing the garlic clove and anchovy fillets. You want to chop them very finely, turning them into a paste. This step can be done by mincing them first and then dragging your knife across the cutting board to achieve a smooth consistency. If you prefer, you can use a blender or food processor to make quick work of this step.
- In a mixing bowl, combine one egg yolk, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.
- Slowly stream in the neutral oil (we recommend avocado oil) while continuously whisking. This gradual addition of oil allows the dressing to thicken and become creamy. If you’re using a blender or food processor, you can add the oil all at once and blend until the dressing is emulsified.
- Add the garlic and anchovy paste to the dressing, followed by four tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Finally, season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. And there you have it—a creamy, flavorful Caesar dressing that will elevate any salad!
Video
Notes
Common queries on Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe
These commonly asked questions and their short answers will give you an better understanding of this Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe
1. What is Caesar salad dressing made of?
Caesar salad dressing is typically made of fresh garlic, anchovies, egg yolk, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, oil (such as avocado or olive oil), Parmesan cheese, and seasonings like salt and pepper. These ingredients come together to create a creamy, tangy, and savory dressing.
2. Why does Caesar dressing taste so good?
Caesar dressing has a rich, complex flavor profile due to the combination of umami from the anchovies and Parmesan cheese, the creaminess from the egg yolk and oil, and the tanginess from lemon juice and Dijon mustard. The blend of these flavors creates a dressing that is both bold and balanced.
3. Is Ranch the same as Caesar salad dressing?
No, Ranch and Caesar dressings are different. Ranch dressing is usually made with buttermilk, mayonnaise, herbs (like dill and parsley), garlic, and onion, giving it a creamy and tangy flavor. Caesar dressing, on the other hand, contains ingredients like anchovies, Parmesan, and egg yolk, resulting in a more savory and umami-rich flavor.
4. Can I make Caesar dressing without anchovies?
Yes, you can make Caesar dressing without anchovies, though it will alter the traditional flavor. Anchovies add a deep umami taste that is key to the classic Caesar dressing. If you prefer to skip them, you can substitute them with a bit of Worcestershire sauce, which also has a savory, umami flavor.
5. Can I use olive oil instead of avocado oil in this recipe?
Yes, olive oil can be used in place of avocado oil. Olive oil adds a slightly more robust flavor, while avocado oil is milder and more neutral. Both work well, so it depends on your taste preference.
6. Is Caesar salad dressing safe to eat with raw egg yolk?
Using raw egg yolk in Caesar dressing is traditional and gives the dressing its creamy texture. To ensure safety, use fresh, pasteurized eggs or eggs from a trusted source. If you’re concerned about raw eggs, you can use a store-bought pasteurized egg product or substitute with mayonnaise.
7. Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Caesar dressing ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to stir it before serving, as some separation may occur.
8. Can I make Caesar dressing without a blender or food processor?
Yes, you can make Caesar dressing by hand using a whisk. The key is to mince the garlic and anchovies into a fine paste and whisk the ingredients slowly to create a creamy emulsion. However, using a blender or food processor can speed up the process.
9. What can I use instead of egg yolk in Caesar dressing?
If you prefer to avoid raw egg yolk, you can substitute it with mayonnaise. Mayonnaise provides a similar creaminess and texture, making it a suitable alternative in Caesar dressing.
10. How can I make my Caesar dressing thicker?
To thicken Caesar dressing, make sure you add the oil slowly while whisking continuously. This helps create a stable emulsion, resulting in a thicker dressing. If your dressing is still too thin, you can whisk in a bit more grated Parmesan cheese or mayonnaise to achieve the desired consistency.
This Caesar dressing is perfect for tossing with crisp romaine lettuce and homemade croutons. You can also drizzle it over grilled chicken, use it as a dip for veggies, or spread it on a sandwich for an extra burst of flavor.
For a full guide to making this dressing and our homemade crouton recipe, check out our full post on Inspired Taste. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Caesar salad!
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Awesome! exactly what I was looking for…
Thanks for the feedback