Mayo: Mayonnaise in Caesar dressing adds creaminess and richness, giving the dressing a smooth, thick texture that helps it cling to the salad leaves. It also balances the tanginess of ingredients like lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce, lending a mild sweetness and a velvety consistency. This makes the dressing easier to prepare, adds stability, and ensures food safety while still delivering that classic, indulgent Caesar flavor.

Lemon Juice: Lemon juice in Caesar dressing adds a bright, tangy acidity that balances the richness of ingredients like mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese. Lemon juice also helps mellow the saltiness of anchovies and Worcestershire sauce.

Lemon juice is packed with vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps protect cells from oxidative stress. Its natural acidity aids digestion and can help improve the absorption of key nutrients like iron from plant-based foods.

Garlic: Garlic adds a bold, savory depth to Caesar dressing. Its pungent, slightly spicy notes complement the creamy, tangy ingredients and create the classic distinct taste Caesar salad is known for.

Fresh garlic is packed with antioxidants and compounds like allicin, which can support immune health and reduce inflammation in the body. It’s also known to promote heart health by helping to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.

Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard in Caesar dressing brings a subtle, tangy sharpness that enhances the flavor profile of the dressing. It also acts as an emulsifier, helping to blend the oil and other ingredients into a smooth, stable mixture, preventing separation and promoting a cohesive texture.

Dijon mustard contains antioxidants such as selenium which plays a crucial role in metabolism, thyroid function, and the immune system. Helping to protect cells from damage and reducing inflammation, which may lower the risk of chronic diseases. It also contains magnesium which is vital for muscle and nerve function, blood sugar regulation, and blood pressure maintenance. It can also help with bone health, energy production, sleep quality and overall mood.

Anchovy Paste: Anchovy paste is a key ingredient in Caesar dressing, contributing a deep umami flavor. It adds complexity and a savory depth without making the dressing taste fishy together with the rest of the ingredients.

Anchovies are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering the risk of heart disease. They are also an excellent source of protein which helps by building and repairing tissues and producing enzymes and hormones. They also contain calcium which is important for bone health, blood clotting and blood pressure.

Olive Oil: Olive oil in Caesar dressing adds a smooth, rich texture and enhances the overall flavor with its fruity and slightly peppery notes. It serves as a healthy fat source, providing heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that can contribute to lowering inflammation and risk of heart disease. The fat in the oil also helps to emulsify the dressing, ensuring all ingredients blend for a creamy consistency.

Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce provides a unique combination of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. The sauce contains ingredients like vinegar, and various spices, which contribute umami, a key flavor profile in Caesar salad.

Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan has a sharp profile which can balance the acidity from ingredients like lemon juice and vinegar. Additionally, the cheese contributes to the creamy texture, especially when blended with mayonnaise or olive oil. Parmesan also brings a subtle nuttiness that complements the other flavors, making the dressing more savory and indulgent.

Salt & Pepper: The salt acts to bring out and enhance the other flavors in the sauce. Freshly ground black pepper can provide a subtle bite that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the dressing.