This homemade Caesar dressing recipe is a lighter, healthier twist on the classic. Made with Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon, Worcestershire sauce, and Parmesan, it’s creamy, tangy, and anchovy-free—perfect for salads, dipping, or drizzling.
Table of Contents
- Why I Love This Caesar Dressing Recipe
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- Substitutions & Variations
- Directions
- Why This Recipe Works
- How to Store Caesar Dressing
- Other Healthy Salad Dressings You’ll Love
- Final Thoughts
- Connect with Me
I’ve made countless versions of Caesar dressing over the years, testing and tweaking until I found the one that feels both light and indulgent. Unlike traditional recipes, this one skips raw eggs and anchovies (I’ve never been a fan!) and swaps in protein-packed Greek yogurt for a creamy, guilt-free base.
This is my go-to when I want a Caesar salad that’s still full of flavor but feels fresh, vibrant, and a touch healthier. It’s also a perfect make-ahead recipe for busy weeks—you’ll never go back to store-bought bottles after tasting how easy and delicious homemade can be.
Why I Love This Caesar Dressing Recipe
- Healthier & lighter – Greek yogurt makes this dressing creamy without heavy mayonnaise or raw egg.
- No anchovies needed – All the flavor, none of the fishiness. (Though you can add them if you’re a traditionalist.)
- Everyday ingredients – You likely already have everything in your pantry or fridge.
- So versatile – Toss with crisp romaine, drizzle over grilled chicken, or even use as a sandwich spread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a quick breakdown of the ingredients and why they matter:
- Greek Yogurt (1 cup): The creamy, tangy base that lightens the dressing while adding protein.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic is key for bold Caesar flavor.
- Lemon Juice (2 tbsp): Bright and zesty, it balances the richness.
- Dijon Mustard (1 tbsp): Adds depth and a subtle tang.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp): Gives that signature savory, umami note.
- Grated Parmesan (½ cup): Adds salty, nutty flavor—use freshly grated if you can.
- Salt & Black Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Tip
If you prefer a thinner consistency, whisk in a splash of olive oil or water.
Substitutions & Variations
- Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes works surprisingly well.
- Anchovy Fans: Add 1–2 teaspoons of anchovy paste for a more traditional Caesar flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free yogurt and vegan Parmesan substitute.
- Extra Creaminess: Whisk in 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Zest it up: Add lemon zest for a brighter finish.
Directions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl (or food processor), whisk together Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Parmesan.
- Blend Until Smooth: Whisk until creamy and well combined. If using a blender, pulse for 30 seconds.
- Adjust Consistency: If too thick, stir in a little water or extra lemon juice.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper as needed.
Why This Recipe Works
Expert Tips for the Best Caesar Dressing
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor—powder just won’t cut it.
Grate Parmesan finely so it blends smoothly into the dressing.
Taste as you go—you may want more lemon juice or Worcestershire depending on your preference.
Let it chill for 30 minutes in the fridge before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Store Caesar Dressing
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container or mason jar for up to 1 week.
- Stir before using: The dressing may thicken as it chills—just stir or add a splash of water.
- Make ahead: Perfect for meal prep!
Other Healthy Salad Dressings You’ll Love
Final Thoughts
This Caesar dressing recipe is my healthy twist on a beloved classic. Creamy, tangy, and rich without being heavy, it’s proof that you don’t need anchovies or raw eggs to achieve that signature Caesar flavor. Whether you’re making a simple Caesar salad, dipping fresh veggies, or drizzling it over grilled chicken, this dressing deserves a permanent spot in your fridge.
Once you make it from scratch, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.
Healthy Caesar Salad Dressing
Enjoy a healthier twist on Caesar dressing with Greek yogurt, fresh garlic, and lemon juice. Perfect for salads, wraps, and dipping, without anchovies!
Ingredients
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, grated parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. You can simply whisk the ingredients together or add them to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- If the dressing is too thick, you can thin it out with a little water or additional lemon juice until it reaches your desired consistency.
Notes
Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to a week, though a quick stir might be needed before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 10 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 37Total Fat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 175mgCarbohydrates: 2gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 4g
Christopher is a food and lifestyle expert, recipe developer and the content creator behind May Eighty Five. With over 6 years of creating recipes for your favourite food brands, he also shares tips, tricks and how to’s that he has learnt over the years. Every week, he shares quick, simple and mostly healthy recipes along with some home and entertaining tips. You will find flavorful cocktails, delicious appetizers, tasty mains and some indulgent desserts.