01 -
First things first, get an immersion blender ready, or a regular blender if that's what you have. I find the immersion blender makes this whole process so much less messy – less to clean, which is always a win in my book! Make sure all your ingredients are out and measured. It's so frustrating to realize you're missing something mid-blend, trust me, I've done it too many times.
02 -
In a tall, narrow jar or the bottom of your blender, add the egg yolk, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovy paste. This is the flavor foundation, so make sure everything is in there. I always give it a little sniff at this point; you can already smell the promise of something delicious brewing!
03 -
If using an immersion blender, place it at the very bottom of the jar. Start blending on low speed, slowly drizzling in the olive oil in a thin, steady stream. You'll see it start to magically thicken and turn creamy right before your eyes – honestly, it's such a satisfying moment! Keep blending until all the oil is incorporated and the dressing is beautifully emulsified. Don't rush this part; a slow drizzle is key to a stable dressing.
04 -
Once your dressing is thick and creamy, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Then, taste it! This is where you become the chef. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. I tend to be a bit heavy-handed with the pepper, but that's just me. Adjust the lemon juice if you want more tang, or a tiny bit more Worcestershire if you want more depth. Don't be shy with tasting!
05 -
Give the dressing one last good whisk or a quick pulse in the blender to ensure everything is perfectly combined. The texture should be smooth and luscious. Now, here's a little secret: while you *can* use it right away, I find letting the Easy Caesar Salad Dressing chill in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes really lets the flavors meld. It just gets better.
06 -
When you're ready, drizzle your homemade Easy Caesar Salad Dressing generously over crisp romaine lettuce, add some crunchy croutons, and maybe a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. It’s amazing how something so simple can elevate a meal. The vibrant aroma of garlic and lemon, the creamy texture – it’s just pure joy, honestly.