Jamie Oliver Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe – Creamy, Tangy, and Made from Scratch

Looking for a creamy, tangy dressing that turns a simple bowl of romaine lettuce into a restaurant-quality salad? This Jamie Oliver Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe is a rich, flavorful version made with fresh ingredients—no bottled shortcuts. Inspired by Jamie Oliver’s approach to wholesome, honest food, this dressing balances garlic, anchovy, mustard, lemon, and parmesan for a bold yet elegant flavor. It’s quick to prepare, easy to adjust, and far better than anything you’ll find in a jar.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Caesar Salad Dressing

Jamie Oliver’s Caesar salad dressing is a creamy, zesty blend made from scratch with real ingredients like egg yolk, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, mustard, anchovies, and grated parmesan cheese. Unlike overly thick or overly processed versions, Jamie’s recipe stays true to the dressing’s roots—fresh, punchy, and full of umami. It’s traditionally served with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and shaved parmesan, but it works well with grilled chicken, wraps, or roasted vegetables.

Other Popular Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Caprese Salad
• Jamie Oliver Chicken Satay
• Jamie Oliver Arancini

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Made with fresh, real ingredients – No preservatives or fillers
• Quick and easy to prepare – Takes just 5–10 minutes
• Customizable texture and flavor – Adjust thickness, tang, and salt
• Far better than store-bought – Bright, creamy, and well-balanced
• Pairs with more than just salad – Use as dip, spread, or sandwich dressing
• Restaurant-quality results at home – With simple pantry ingredients

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Caesar Salad Dressing

Here’s what you’ll need for about 1 cup of dressing:

• 1 egg yolk (room temperature) – Acts as the creamy base
• 2 anchovy fillets (or 1 tsp anchovy paste) – Adds deep, savory flavor
• 1 garlic clove, minced – Gives sharpness and aroma
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard – Adds tang and helps emulsify
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice – Brightens the dressing
• ½ cup olive oil (light or extra virgin) – Creates the creamy emulsion
• ¼ cup finely grated parmesan cheese – Adds richness and umami
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 tbsp plain Greek yogurt or mayo – For extra creaminess

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or small food processor
• Garlic press or fine grater
• Measuring spoons
• Citrus juicer (optional)

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Caesar Salad Dressing

Step 1: Mash anchovies and garlic

In a bowl or mortar, mash together minced garlic and anchovy fillets into a smooth paste using the back of a spoon or pestle.

Step 2: Whisk in egg yolk and mustard

Add the egg yolk and Dijon mustard. Whisk until well combined and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Add lemon juice

Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice. The acidity helps balance the richness of the egg and anchovies.

Step 4: Emulsify with olive oil

Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking constantly to create a thick, creamy emulsion. If using a food processor, add oil in a steady stream while blending.

Step 5: Stir in parmesan

Mix in grated Parmesan. Add Greek yogurt or mayo if you prefer a thicker, creamier dressing.

Step 6: Season and adjust

Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust lemon juice or cheese to preference.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Caesar Salad Dressing

• Toss with romaine and croutons – The classic Caesar base
• Top with grilled chicken or shrimp – Makes it a complete meal
• Drizzle over roasted vegetables – Adds creaminess and depth
• Use in chicken wraps or sandwiches – Acts as a flavorful spread
• Serve as a dip for veggie sticks – Great for entertaining
• Spoon over baked potatoes – A rich twist on sour cream
• Mix into pasta salad – Turns it into a creamy, savory dish

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Caesar Salad Dressing

• Use room temperature ingredients – Helps the dressing emulsify properly
• Add oil slowly – Prevents the dressing from splitting
• Use high-quality olive oil – Affects both flavor and texture
• Grate the parmesan finely – Helps it blend smoothly
• Taste as you go – Adjust salt, acid, and garlic to your liking
• Store in a glass jar – Helps preserve freshness and flavor
• Blend for smoother texture – Use a small blender or immersion blender if preferred

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Caesar Salad Dressing

• Make it egg-free – Use Greek yogurt or mayo instead of raw egg yolk
• Go dairy-free – Skip the parmesan or use nutritional yeast
• Add a pinch of chili flakes – For a gentle kick
• Swap lemon for white wine vinegar – For a sharper, more traditional tang
• Include Worcestershire sauce – Adds an extra layer of umami
• Use pasteurized egg – For extra food safety without changing flavor

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Caesar Salad Dressing

• Store in an airtight jar – Keeps it fresh and prevents odors
• Refrigerate immediately – Especially if made with raw egg
• Use within 3 days – For best texture and safety
• Shake or stir before serving – Ingredients may separate slightly
• Label with the date – To track freshness

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Caesar Salad Dressing

This dressing is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended. However, here’s how to refresh it if chilled:

• Let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes – Softens the texture
• Whisk or stir before using – Recombines separated ingredients
• Add a splash of lemon juice – Brightens flavor after storage
• Avoid microwaving – It may cause the emulsion to break

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver Caesar Salad Dressing Healthier?

• Swap half the oil with Greek yogurt – Reduces fat and adds protein
• Use low-sodium anchovies or soy sauce – For a lighter salt profile
• Skip added mayo or extra cheese – Keeps calories in check
• Add more lemon juice or vinegar – Enhances flavor without adding fat
• Serve lightly tossed – Use less dressing to keep it light

Nutrition Value (per 2 tbsp):

• Calories: 160
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 220mg

(Approximate values based on olive oil and parmesan)

FAQs

Can I make Caesar salad dressing without anchovies?

Yes, but anchovies are key to authentic Caesar flavor. For a milder alternative, use Worcestershire sauce or anchovy paste. You can also omit them and add extra parmesan for depth.

Is it safe to use raw egg yolk in Caesar dressing?

Raw egg yolk is traditional and safe when fresh, but if concerned, use a pasteurized egg or substitute with 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a similar creamy base.

How long does homemade Caesar dressing last?

Homemade Caesar salad dressing lasts up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Always refrigerate immediately, especially if using raw eggs.

Can I use pre-grated parmesan in Caesar dressing?

For the best flavor and texture, use freshly grated parmesan. Pre-grated versions often contain anti-caking agents and won’t blend as smoothly.

Final Words

This Jamie Oliver Caesar Salad Dressing is your go-to for creamy, garlicky, restaurant-style dressing at home. With just a few ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you’ll have a rich, bold dressing that brings out the best in any salad.

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