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Bold and Spicy Caesar Dressing

Close-up of creamy, yellow spicy caesar dressing topped with red pepper flakes in a small white ramekin.

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Make a creamy, zesty Caesar dressing with a noticeable kick using this simple, reliable recipe.

Ingredients

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  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 anchovy fillets, finely mashed (optional, omit for no anchovy version)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (like Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, mashed anchovy fillets (if using), salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce until well combined.
  2. Slowly add the olive oil, one teaspoon at a time, while whisking constantly. This slow addition is key to creating a stable emulsion.
  3. Once about half the oil is incorporated and the mixture thickens, you can add the remaining oil in a thin, steady stream while continuing to whisk vigorously.
  4. Whisk in the fresh lemon juice until the dressing is smooth.
  5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully mixed.
  6. Taste the dressing. Add more hot sauce or cayenne pepper if you want more heat, or more lemon juice for extra tang.
  7. Cover and chill the homemade spicy Caesar dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • For a thicker dressing, use slightly less olive oil. For a thinner consistency, add a teaspoon of cold water at the end.
  • If you prefer a fire roasted pepper caesar dressing flavor, add 1 tablespoon of finely pureed roasted red pepper along with the garlic.
  • If you are concerned about raw egg, you can substitute the egg yolk with 1/4 cup of mayonnaise for a quicker, safer base.

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