Keto Caesar Dressing Recipe: A Creamy, Tangy Delight
Embark on a culinary journey that marries indulgence with healthy living with this keto Caesar dressing recipe. Transform your salads from mundane to magnificent with a dressing that’s not only low in carbs but also rich in flavor. Perfect for those on a ketogenic diet, this Caesar dressing is a testament to the fact that you don’t have to sacrifice taste for health. It’s creamy, it’s tangy, and it’s packed with the authentic Caesar taste you love, without the carb overload. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your lunchtime greens or need a reliable go-to for your dinner side dishes, this keto-friendly Caesar dressing is your ticket to a flavorful feast.
The Roots of Our Keto Caesar Dressing
There’s something about a classic Caesar salad that feels both luxurious and comforting. However, traditional Caesar dressing can be a minefield of hidden sugars and unwanted carbs. This is where our keto Caesar dressing comes into play. Crafted from a love for the iconic flavors of Caesar dressing and a commitment to the keto lifestyle, this recipe is designed to bring you the best of both worlds.
The secret lies in selecting the right ingredients that align with the ketogenic diet’s low-carb, high-fat principles. By using mayonnaise as the base, we ensure a creamy texture and a healthy dose of fats. The addition of Parmesan cheese brings a nutty, salty depth, while the tang of lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce adds the quintessential Caesar zing. Anchovies, the unsung heroes, offer umami and authenticity to the dressing, making it indistinguishable from its high-carb counterparts.
What makes this dressing particularly special is its versatility. It can elevate a simple salad, act as a dip for fresh veggies, or even as a marinade for meats. And, with each serving containing only 1 gram of net carbs, it’s a guilt-free addition to your keto kitchen. This dressing isn’t just a condiment; it’s a celebration of flavor that respects your dietary choices.
Mastering the Method
Creating the perfect keto Caesar dressing is about more than just mixing ingredients; it’s an art. Start by finding a good quality mayonnaise, preferably one made with avocado oil for its health benefits and neutral taste. The Parmesan should be freshly grated for the best flavor and texture. When combining these with the sour cream, ensure they’re at room temperature to avoid clumping.
As you whisk in the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, anchovies, and Dijon mustard, do so with vigor to fully emulsify the ingredients. This is crucial for achieving that velvety smoothness that makes a Caesar dressing truly stand out. The seasoning step is where your palate comes into play. Taste as you go, remembering that the anchovies and Parmesan bring their own saltiness to the party.
The final, and perhaps most vital step, is the incorporation of the extra virgin olive oil. Pour it in a steady, thin stream while continuously whisking to create an emulsion. This technique not only thickens the dressing but also ensures that every ingredient is fully integrated, resulting in a coherent and luscious final product. Letting the dressing chill allows the flavors to marry and intensify, so don’t skip this step.
Variations to Spice Up Your Salad
Avocado Caesar Dressing
For a twist on the classic, blend in half of a ripe avocado. This not only adds extra creaminess and healthy fats but also gives the dressing a vibrant green hue.
Spicy Caesar Dressing
Craving a kick? Stir in a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your dressing for a spicy version that’ll liven up any salad.
Herb-Infused Caesar Dressing
Enhance the flavor profile by adding a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs such as dill, basil, or chives. This herbaceous variant is perfect for a summer salad.
Substitutions for Dietary Needs and Preferences
While the original recipe is keto-friendly, you might find yourself in need of substitutions due to allergies or taste preferences. For a dairy-free version, replace the Parmesan cheese and sour cream with nutritional yeast and coconut cream, respectively. If you’re not a fan of anchovies, opt for umami-rich alternatives like tamari or coconut aminos. And for those avoiding eggs, use vegan mayonnaise as the base of your dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice is preferred for its bright flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to check for added sugars.
How long will this dressing last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, the keto Caesar dressing should last up to a week. If it separates, give it a good stir before using.
Is this dressing gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, the dressing will be too.
Can I make this dressing vegan?
Absolutely! Swap out the Parmesan for nutritional yeast and use a vegan mayonnaise. Omit the anchovies or use a seaweed-based alternative.
What can I use if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
A good substitute for Dijon mustard is a combination of yellow mustard and a pinch of white wine vinegar for the tanginess.
This keto Caesar dressing recipe is a creamy, tangy, and rich addition to your low-carb salad repertoire. Made with wholesome ingredients and packing an authentic Caesar flavor without the added carbs, this dressing is sure to become a staple in your keto kitchen.
**Prep time:** 5 minutes
**Servings:** 10
**Cook time:** 0 minutes
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup mayonnaise (240g / 8.45oz)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g / 1.76oz)
– 3 tablespoons sour cream (45g / 1.58oz)
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (30ml / 1.01 fl oz)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (15ml / 0.51 fl oz)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (6g / 0.21oz)
– 2 anchovy fillets, finely chopped or 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (5g / 0.18oz)
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (2.5g / 0.09oz)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (0.5g / 0.02oz)
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (60ml / 2.03 fl oz)
**Method:**
1. Begin by combining the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, and sour cream in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Stir these ingredients until they are well blended and have a smooth consistency.
2. Next, add the fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, anchovy fillets or paste, and Dijon mustard to the bowl. Whisk these ingredients into the mixture until fully incorporated.
3. Season the dressing with ground black pepper and salt to taste. Remember, the Parmesan and anchovies will already add a salty flavor, so add salt sparingly.
4. Slowly drizzle the extra virgin olive oil into the mixture while continuously whisking. This will help emulsify the dressing and give it a rich, creamy texture.
5. Once all the oil is incorporated, taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Your keto Caesar dressing is now ready to use.
6. For best results, allow the dressing to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
**Cuisine:** Italian
**Calories:** 190 kcal per serving
**Carbohydrates:** 1g per serving
**Net carbs:** 1g per serving
**Fat:** 20g per serving
**Protein:** 2g per serving
**Author:** Lorcan O’Connor
