Elevate your salads with a homemade Caesar dressing that surpasses anything you can find in stores. This Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing lightens up a traditionally rich dressing without sacrificing any of its delightful flavors. This easy dressing recipe only takes 5 minutes to make, making it the perfect solution for those seeking convenience without compromising on taste.
Jump to:
- The Origins of Caesar Dressing
- Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing
- Instructions for Making Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing
- Ideas for Serving Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing
- Essential Tools for Making this Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing Recipe
- More Delicious Dressing Ideas to Explore
- Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing
The Origins of Caesar Dressing
The original iteration of Caesar dressing is said to have been dreamed up by Italian immigrant and restauranteur, Caesar Cardini in Tijuana, Mexico in 1924. According to his daughter Rosa, the original dressing recipe did not contain anchovies, but they were introduced in a later version.
Can You Omit Anchovies in Caesar Dressing?
While it may be tempting to omit the anchovies, they play a crucial role in achieving the distinctive flavor profile of Caesar dressing. I would advise against skipping them. Although used in small amounts, anchovies contribute a delightful briny umami taste that brings the dressing to life. Without them, you would likely still end up with a delicious dressing, but it will lack the unique character of traditional Caesar dressing. Embrace the anchovies and savor the full experience of this iconic dressing.
Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing
To whip up this easy Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing, you'll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Gather the following items:
- Greek Yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt serves as the foundation for the Caesar dressing, lending a tangy and creamy texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Parmigiano Reggiano is a staple in my kitchen and adds a wonderful salty flavor to this Caesar dressing.
- Anchovies: These little umami powerhouses infuse the dressing with a deep and savory flavor, elevating the overall taste.
- Dijon Mustard: A touch of Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and complexity to the dressing, taking it to the next level.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A dash of Worcestershire sauce contributes to the umami depth of the dressing, enhancing its savory profile.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil to create a silky and smooth texture in the dressing. Alternatively, you can use garlic-infused oil in place of the traditional olive oil and garlic powder if needed.
- Garlic Powder: For convenience, garlic powder adds a hint of garlic flavor to the dressing. Alternatively, you can use two cloves of fresh garlic.
- Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning, kosher salt brings out the flavors of all the ingredients. Diamond Crystal Kosher salt is a staple in my pantry.
- Cracked Black Pepper: Sprinkled generously, cracked black pepper adds a subtle hint of spiciness to the salad.
Instructions for Making Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to create this amazing dressing. Follow these easy steps:
- In a wide-mouth jar, add the ingredients for the dressing.
- Using an immersion (stick) blender, pulse until fully combined and smooth. Alternatively, you can blend the dressing in a food processor or high-powered blender.
- Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve, or for up to 3 days.
Ideas for Serving Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing
Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing is incredibly versatile and can enhance the flavor of various dishes beyond just salads. Here are some delectable ideas for incorporating this creamy dressing into your meals:
- Caesar Salad with Spicy Roasted Chickpeas, Jammy Eggs, and Avocado: Create a vibrant and satisfying Caesar salad by combining crisp romaine lettuce with spicy roasted chickpeas, creamy slices of avocado, and jammy eggs. Drizzle the salad generously with Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing for a refreshing and flavorful meal. Add chicken, steak, fish, or shrimp for extra protein.
- Classic Caesar Salad: Toss crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese with this homemade Caesar Dressing with Greek Yogurt for a lighter twist on the traditional Caesar salad.
- Grilled Chicken Caesar Wraps: Spread this healthy Caesar dressing recipe on a whole wheat wrap, layer it with grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, and cherry tomatoes. Roll it up for a satisfying and flavorful wrap.
- Veggie Dip: Use this Creamy Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing as a delicious dip for fresh vegetable sticks. It adds a tangy and creamy element that will elevate your snacking experience.
- Roasted Potato Wedges: Drizzle Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing over crispy roasted potato wedges for a delightful and flavorful alternative to ketchup or mayo.
- Sandwich Spread: Spread a layer of Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing on your favorite sandwiches for an extra kick of flavor. It pairs well with grilled chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian options like roasted vegetables.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Marinate shrimp in Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing before grilling to infuse them with a zesty and creamy flavor. Serve them as a tasty appetizer or alongside a fresh salad.
Essential Tools for Making this Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing Recipe
- A wide-mouth jar
- An immersion blender (stick blender) (or a food processor or high-powered blender)
- Kitchen scale (or measuring cups for less precise measurements)
- Measuring spoons
- A cutting board
- A chef's knife
- A citrus juicer
- A cheese grater
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More Delicious Dressing Ideas to Explore
Enjoying the delightful flavors of Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing? Take your culinary adventures further with these flavorful salad recipes that perfectly complement this dressing:
- Buttermilk Jalapeno Ranch Dressing
- Avocado Lime Ranch Dressing
- Spicy Honey Lime Dressing
- Horseradish Blue Cheese Dressing
- Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette
Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 ½ cups 1x
- Category: Salads & Dressings, Sauces & Savory Condiments
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian/Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Elevate your salads with a homemade Caesar dressing that surpasses anything you can find in stores. This Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing lightens up a traditionally rich dressing without sacrificing any of its delightful flavors. This easy dressing recipe only takes 5 minutes to make, making it the perfect solution for those seeking convenience without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
- 113 g (½ cup) full-fat Greek Yogurt
- 1 oz (½ cup) Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (may sub garlic for 2 tbsp garlic-infused olive oil)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 minced garlic cloves)
- 5 anchovies packed in oil and salt (or 2 tsp anchovy paste)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (or 2 tsp coconut aminos)
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- In a wide-mouth jar, add the ingredients for the dressing.
- Using an immersion (stick) blender, pulse until fully combined and smooth. Alternatively, you can blend the dressing in a food processor or high-powered blender.
- Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve, or for up to 3 days.
Notes
Nutritional information on Whip & Wander is provided as a courtesy and is approximate only. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on this site.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 32
- Sodium: 151 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 3 mg
Sophie says
Every time I visit your blog, I just love how you photograph your food. Your recipes are just awesome. Thanks for another easy everyday recipe.
katie says
Oooh, I've never made my own caesar dressing before. It seems so simple, it would be daft to buy store bought now!
Katie xoxo
Renu says
I am loving this rich and creamy yogurt dressing. I would love to add this to my chickpea salad, would be so yum.
Kelly Anthony says
I couldn't agree more, store-bought dressings just don't compare when it comes to homemade ones. I had no idea that caesar dressing came from Mexico. I love learning fun facts like that about food.
Mikayla says
Love this healthier version of Caesar dressing!! I've been trying to replace greek yogurt in lots of different things, and it works so perfectly here!! My salads just got a lot more tasty, its a lovely break from vinaigrettes!
Colleen says
I didn't know that Caesar dressing was invented in Mexico, but I do know that anchovies are essential. Great post!
Jere Cassidy says
Seriously, homemade salad dressing is so much better than store-bought and it's always quick and easy to make. I love the yogurt version of your dressing and all the flavors.
Erika says
I love making my own dressings. Greek Yogurt makes the perfect base.
GUNJAN C Dudani says
I must try this salad dressing. I love eating salads for lunch and this dressing will definitely come in handy.
Stine Mari says
I can't stand seafood but I still use anchovies in my ceasar dressing - the dressing needs it. This looks super yummy!
Jacqui Debono says
I make my own ranch quite often, but never thought of making my own caesar! Will definitely make some to try and share with friends!
Kacie says
Chicken Caesar is one of my favourite sandwich fillings so I really should try making my own sauce sometime
Patricia Bozeman says
I had no idea that caesar dressing was invented in Mexico! Wow! I'm loving this healthier version with yogurt. I usually stick to vegetarian, but I think you're right, you NEED the anchovies in there.
Dana says
This is heaven sent. I have a vegetarian Greek yogurt Caesar dressing that I make sometimes, but since I'm not vegetarian, I've been meaning to create a similar version with the anchovies because seriously—anchovies are the magical ingredient. (So salty! <3) This recipe sounds perfect. Also! I'm a pizza crust dipper. And this is a much more guilt-free way to do that. Because hey, Greek yogurt 😉
Tracy says
Mexico AND no anchovies?! I never knew! I love that you make this dressing with Greek yogurt. What a great way to add some healthy creaminess!!
Sandra Shaffer says
Once you try this homemade caesar dressing you'll never be tempted to buy the jar version again. Super easy to make and delicious! Definitely add the anchovies. Not the same without them.
Pam Greer says
I agree nothing beats a good homemade dressing! This one is a definite keeper, we use it on everything!
Gloria says
I love this healthier version of Caesar dressing. Sounds perfectly balanced. I always have these ingredients in the house. So easy to whip up whenever I need it. Printing this off and hanging it on the fridge.
Waz says
I've never tried making my own caesar salad dressing, which is silly considering how simple it is! I'm gonna try adapting your recipe to make a vegan version. 🙂
Erin @ Platings and Pairings says
I agree with you - anchovies add so much to caesar dressing! I love that you added greek yogurt into the mix! Can't wait to give it a try!