Carrabbas Caesar Dressing Recipe

This Caesar dressing from Carrabbas has that creamy, tangy kick that makes you want to eat salad just for the dressing!

Start by mashing anchovies (paste or fillets) right into the bowl with garlic using the back of a spoon—it’s a small step that matters, guys.

What draws me back to this dressing is how well it clings to every piece of romaine without needing a ton of it.

Start slow when you add the olive oil and whisk continuously to keep the dressing smooth and emulsified.

Don’t skip the grated Parm—use a microplane and stir it in just before serving so it stays light and doesn’t clump.

Make it a few hours ahead and chill—it thickens just slightly and the flavors settle in nicely!

How to Make Carrabbas Caesar Dressing

Ingredients

• 2 Egg Yolks
• 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
• 2 tbsp Lemon Juice (fresh)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1/2 cup Olive Oil
• 8 Anchovy Fillets
• 2 Garlic Cloves (minced)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black Pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Blend the anchovy fillets and minced garlic in a food processor until smooth.

Step 2:

Add the egg yolks, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce to the mix. Process until fully combined.

Step 3:

Drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to process. This should create a creamy texture.

Step 4:

Add lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to the dressing. Mix until well combined.

Step 5:

Adjust seasoning as needed; feel free to add more lemon or salt for taste.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Balance the Flavors

Taste the dressing as you go to ensure that the balance between salty, tangy, and creamy is just right.

Don’t hesitate to modify by adding a bit more Parmesan for creaminess or lemon for acidity if necessary.

Use Fresh Ingredients

I always recommend fresh lemon juice and garlic for the best taste. Period!

Chill Before Serving

For the best long-term flavor, refrigerate your dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving.

This will help the flavors meld together and provide a refreshing taste to your salad.

Anchovy Alternatives

If anchovies aren’t your thing, you could substitute with capers for a similar savory flavor.

It’s a great way to cater to personal tastes while keeping the essence of the dressing intact.

Properly Emulsify

Make sure to pour the olive oil in slowly to allow for proper emulsification.

This will help achieve a smooth and well-blended dressing that coats your salad beautifully.

What to Serve with Carrabba’s Caesar Dressing Recipe

Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken is one of those classic options that never fails when paired with Caesar dressing.

You can season it with simple herbs and spices to allow the dressing’s bold flavors to shine through.

Whether you slice it and serve over the salad or have it on the side, it’s always a hit!

Crusty Garlic Bread

Pairing your Caesar salad with some crusty garlic bread is another traditional favorite.

The crunchy texture of the bread complements the creamy dressing perfectly.

Plus, it’s great for mopping up any leftover dressing on your plate!

Roasted Vegetables

I love serving roasted vegetables with Caesar salad!

Think of veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes that add a pop of color and flavor.

A drizzle of olive oil with some salt and pepper makes them a tasty addition to the dish.

Grilled Shrimp

For something a little bit different, you can serve grilled shrimp with your Caesar dressing.

The lightness of the shrimp pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing, offering a fresh taste.

It’s great for a summer lunch or dinner!

Watermelon Salad

Looking for a twist? Try serving a watermelon salad alongside your Caesar.

The sweetness of the watermelon paired with a little feta cheese can balance the savory Caesar dressing.

Throw in some mint leaves for an extra refreshing touch!

Variations and Substitutions

Dairy-Free

If you’re looking to make a dairy-free version, consider swapping out mayonnaise with a dairy-free mayo option.

For the Parmesan cheese, a nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese works well too!

Vegan Options

To adapt this dressing for a vegan lifestyle, use a vegan mayonnaise.

Instead of anchovy paste, incorporate capers or seaweed for a similar depth of flavor.

Lower Fat

For a lighter dressing, Greek yogurt can be an excellent substitute for mayonnaise.

Reduce the oil content by blending in extra lemon juice or even a splash of vinegar.

Additional Flavors

Want to add some heat? Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes!

You might also love incorporating fresh dill or basil for greater freshness.

How to Store Leftover Carrabbas Caesar Dressing

Airtight Containers

You should use airtight containers to store leftover Carrabbas Caesar dressing effectively.

This helps the dressing maintain its flavor and texture without becoming too runny or thick.

I recommend picking containers that fit snugly to minimize air exposure and help the dressing last longer in the fridge!

Refrigeration

Refrigerate your leftover dressing as soon as possible to keep it fresh and tasty.

The ideal storage time in the refrigerator is generally up to five days for the best results.

This short storage window allows you to enjoy your dressing while it’s still delicious and safe to consume.

Preparation Before Serving

Before using the leftover dressing again, take it out of the fridge about 10 minutes before serving.

Giving it time to sit at room temperature helps restore its original consistency.

A quick whisk can blend any separation that might have occurred during storage, making it ready to toss with fresh salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Wrong Ingredients

You might think substituting ingredients is harmless, but it can change the entire flavor of Carrabba’s Caesar dressing.

Stick to fresh garlic and high-quality anchovy paste to create the authentic, savory taste.

Incorrect Consistency

It’s easy to make the dressing too runny by adding too much buttermilk.

Instead, start with a small amount and gradually add more until you reach your desired consistency.

Not Balancing Flavors

Achieving the right balance is key.

Too much lemon juice can make it overly tart, while too little anchovy paste leaves it bland.

Taste as you go and adjust accordingly—you’ll be glad you did!