This homemade Caesar Vinaigrette is a tangy, flavorful dressing that brings a fun twist to the traditional Caesar salad. Unlike the classic Creamy Caesar Dressing, this vinaigrette version is lighter and perfect for those who prefer a more vibrant, zesty taste. This recipe incorporates the essential elements of a Caesar dressing, such as Parmesan cheese and anchovy paste, but with a vinaigrette twist that makes it versatile for various salads and dishes.
Homemade Caesar Vinaigrette
One of my favorite things to make at home is a good salad dressing. You can toss in all of your favorite ingredients along with some oil and vinegar, blend, and you’ve got a fresh, homemade dressing that is perfect for your next green salad or pasta salad.
Not that there’s anything wrong with store-bought dressings. I have more than my fair share of them in my fridge right now. One of my favorites is the Newman’s Own Caesar, and that’s what inspired this recipe.
Why you’ll love this dish…
- 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.
Get all of my Traeger Recipes here!
Caesar Vinaigrette shopping list
Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- 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
- Garlic (Minced)
- Dijon Mustard
- Black Pepper
- Cayenne Pepper
- Paprika
Toss with our Grilled Caesar Pasta Salad!
How to make Homemade Caesar Vinaigrette
Wondering what you’re getting yourself into when you make this dish? Here’s a quick overview of the process! Make sure you follow the instructions at the recipe card at the bottom of the post while you’re cooking.
- 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.
Try with our Traeger Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks!
Homemade Caesar Vinaigrette FAQ
What’s the best way to store caesar vinaigrette?
Store the vinaigrette in a covered container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks.
What is Caesar dressing made of?
Caesar dressing is made of a mixture of oil and vinegar with fresh herbs, salt and pepper, and anchovies. Other variations include garlic, cheese, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
What does Caesar Vinaigrette taste like?
Caesar vinaigrette has a lighter, tangier taste compared to traditional Caesar dressing. It combines the classic Caesar flavors of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and anchovies with a more pronounced acidic component from vinegar or lemon juice. The result is a bright, zesty flavor with a savory and slightly salty undertone, and a lighter texture than the creamy version.
How to make Paul Newman Caesar Salad Dressing?
There are no official published recipes from the Paul Newman company on how to make their signature Caesar dressing. This recipe shared here is the closest I could get during my testing.
Does all Caesar dressing have anchovies?
All authentic Caesar dressing contains anchovies. That being said, you can omit them if you cannot or choose not to eat fish. You will miss out on some of that big flavor and umami that the anchovy adds, but you’ll still end up with a delicious dressing.
Blackstone Blackened Shrimp Caesar Wrap
Serve this with…
- Our easy homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs would be perfect next to a fresh Caesar salad!
- On that same note, this Spaghetti and Meat Sauce recipe is a good alternative if you don’t want to spend time rolling meatballs.
- If white sauce is what you’re in the mood for, this Chicken Alfredo Bake is homemade and amazing!
- Not in the mood for pasta? Caesar Salad is perfect served next to a grilled Flat Iron Steak!
More great recipes with vinegar to try!
Try these homemade dressings!
Caesar Vinaigrette
Ingredients
Caesar Vinaigrette Dressing
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/8 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Combine all of the dressing ingredients together in a quart-sized mason jar. Shake vigorously to combine and emulsify.
- Chill until ready to use.
Nutrition
Nicole Johnson
Nicole Johnson, a self-taught expert in grilling and outdoor cooking, launched Or Whatever You Do in 2010. Her blog, renowned for its comprehensive and creative outdoor cooking recipes, has garnered a vast audience of millions. Nicole's hands-on experience and passion for grilling shine through her work. Her husband, Jeremiah Johnson, also plays a pivotal role in recipe development, adding his culinary flair to the mix. Together, they form a dynamic duo, offering a rich and varied outdoor cooking experience to their followers.