Basil Caesar Dressing
If you love the bold, garlicky punch of a classic Caesar but want something brighter and greener to drizzle over your salads, this basil caesar dressing is about to become your new obsession. It's creamy, tangy, and comes together in your blender in under 10 minutes, no anchovy fillets to fuss with, just pantry staples and a big handful of fresh basil.
Simple, everyday ingredients and clear, step-by-step instructions — every recipe made in Dorothy’s kitchen before it reaches yours. Jump to the full recipe card below.
Basil Caesar Dressing
A creamy, garlicky Caesar dressing blended with fresh basil for a bright, herby twist on the classic.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly cracked
- 2–3 tablespoons water, to thin as needed
Instructions
- Add the fresh basil leaves, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic cloves, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovy paste (if using) to a blender or food processor.
- Blend on high speed for 30-45 seconds, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is smooth and vibrant green.
- Season with salt and black pepper, then blend again briefly to combine.
- Check the consistency and add water, one tablespoon at a time, blending until the dressing reaches your desired thickness.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon juice for brightness or Parmesan for extra depth if desired.
- Transfer the dressing to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Toss with crisp romaine lettuce, drizzle over roasted vegetables, or serve as a dip alongside your favorite dishes.
Notes
Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; the basil may darken slightly but the flavor stays fresh. For a lighter version, swap half the mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt. Leave out the anchovy paste for a vegetarian version, or add an extra dash of Worcestershire sauce to keep that classic umami flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes basil caesar dressing different from regular Caesar dressing?
Basil caesar dressing blends fresh basil leaves into the traditional creamy Caesar base, adding a fragrant, herby brightness that balances the garlic and Parmesan for a lighter, fresher flavor.
Can I make basil caesar dressing without anchovies?
Yes, simply omit the anchovy paste. The Worcestershire sauce and Parmesan still provide plenty of savory depth, so the dressing stays flavorful even without it.
How long does basil caesar dressing last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this basil caesar dressing stays fresh for up to 5 days. Give it a good stir before each use since the ingredients may separate slightly.
What can I serve with basil caesar dressing besides salad?
Beyond tossing it with romaine for a salad, this basil caesar dressing works great as a dip for vegetables, a spread for sandwiches and wraps, or a drizzle over grilled chicken and roasted potatoes.
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