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Basil Caesar Dressing

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A creamy, garlicky Caesar dressing blended with fresh basil for a bright, herby twist on the classic.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

  1. 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.
  2. Blend on high speed for 30-45 seconds, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is smooth and vibrant green.
  3. Season with salt and black pepper, then blend again briefly to combine.
  4. Check the consistency and add water, one tablespoon at a time, blending until the dressing reaches your desired thickness.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon juice for brightness or Parmesan for extra depth if desired.
  6. Transfer the dressing to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
  7. 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.

Find it online: https://www.receipster.com/basil-caesar-dressing/