Martha Stewart Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe: Anchovy and Garlic Infused Elegance

This dressing transforms any salad into a restaurant-quality experience with its creamy texture and bold flavors. Anchovy and garlic create the signature depth that defines classic Caesar.

With just a few ingredients and a whisk, you can achieve professional results. This version stays fresh in the fridge for up to a week, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients for Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe Martha Stewart

Creamy, bold, and restaurant-quality with just a whisk and these essentials.

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The anchovies are non-negotiable for authentic depth—Boar’s Head or Ortiz brands deliver consistent quality. Parmesan should be Parmigiano-Reggiano from a wedge, not pre-grated, as the texture differentiates this from amateur versions. For the mayonnaise, Hellmann’s or Duke’s provide the necessary body and richness. Source these from Whole Foods or specialty grocers for optimal results.

No anchovies? 1 tbsp capers plus 1 tsp soy sauce mimics the umami. For vegetarian Worcestershire, Annie’s makes a reliable version. The Dijon can be substituted with whole-grain mustard for texture, but reduce by half the amount. If avoiding raw eggs (in some mayo brands), use pasteurized versions like Kewpie for safety without sacrificing creaminess.

This dressing keeps for 7 days refrigerated in a sealed jar. The flavors meld and intensify over 24 hours. Do not freeze—emulsion will separate. Always bring to room temperature before tossing with greens for even coating and peak flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Caesar Salad Dressing

Master the technique for a rich, balanced dressing that clings perfectly to greens.

Step 1: Prepare the Anchovy and Garlic Base

Finely mince the 6 whole Anchovy Fillets until they form a paste. I use the flat side of my chef’s knife to crush them against the cutting board—this helps break them down faster and ensures no chunks remain.

Mince the 2 cloves Garlic Cloves to a fine paste as well. Combine the anchovy and garlic in a bowl, then add the 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce. This step builds the umami foundation that defines Caesar dressing.

Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You’ll notice the anchovies dissolve slightly into the garlic and sauce, creating a smooth, potent base.

Step 2: Emulsify the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the 0.75 cup Mayonnaise, 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard, 1 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar, and 1 tbsp Lemon Juice until fully combined. The vinegar and lemon juice cut through the richness of the mayonnaise, balancing the flavors.

Slowly drizzle in the 0.25 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil while whisking constantly. This emulsification step ensures the dressing is creamy and cohesive rather than separated. You’ll see the mixture thicken slightly as the oil incorporates.

Step 3: Incorporate the Anchovy Mixture and Cheese

Add the anchovy-garlic mixture to the emulsified base and whisk vigorously for 30 seconds until fully integrated. The dressing should now have a deep, savory aroma with no visible pieces of anchovy or garlic.

Gradually add the 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese, whisking continuously to prevent clumping. Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly into the dressing, adding a nutty, salty depth that complements the umami from the anchovies.

Step 4: Season and Adjust Consistency

Stir in the 0.5 tsp Kosher Salt and 0.25 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, though the anchovies and Parmesan typically provide enough saltiness.

If the dressing seems too thick, thin it with a splash of water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon but still drizzle easily.

Let the dressing rest for 10 minutes before using. This allows the flavors to fully develop and harmonize, resulting in a dressing that’s bold, creamy, and perfectly balanced.

Perfect Pairings for These Flavors

Side Dishes

Martha Stewart’s Caesar salad dressing shines alongside hearty sides. Try it with garlic bread or crostini to soak up the creamy, tangy flavors. For a lighter option, pair it with roasted Brussels sprouts or grilled asparagus to balance the richness. 🥘

Drink Pairings

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Pinot Grigio complements the dressing’s bold garlic and anchovy notes. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling lemonade or iced green tea adds a refreshing contrast. 🍷

Complementary Flavors

Enhance the dressing with grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. Add Parmesan shavings and toasted pine nuts for extra texture. A sprinkle of black pepper ties it all together. 💡