If you’ve ever thought a vegan Caesar salad dressing could never live up to the original, prepare to be pleasantly surprised. This version is rich, creamy, tangy, and savoury, with all the depth of flavour you’d expect from a restaurant-quality Caesar- just without the anchovies or dairy!
The secret? A clever blend of vegan parmesan for that signature texture and sharpness, and white miso paste for an umami punch that replaces the traditional anchovy base. Paired with garlic, Dijon, and a squeeze of fresh lemon, you get a dressing that truly delivers on flavour.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Caesar Dressing
✔ Authentic flavour – tastes just like the Caesar you’d get at a fine restaurant.
✔ Easy to make – just whisk everything together in minutes.
✔ Make ahead friendly – keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
✔ Versatile – perfect on salads, as a dip, or even drizzled on roasted veggies and grain bowls.
Ingredients That Make It Special
- Garlic – for that unmistakable Caesar zing.
- White miso paste – adds salty, umami depth that mimics anchovies.
- Lemon juice + zest – brightness to balance the richness.
- Dijon mustard – a little bite and tang.
- Vegan mayonnaise – creamy base that makes this dressing luscious.
- Vegan parmesan – nutty, cheesy notes with a touch of texture.
- Salt – just enough to bring it all together.
How to Make Vegan Caesar Dressing
Making this dressing couldn’t be simpler:
- Whisk – Add all ingredients to a small mixing bowl.
- Combine – Whisk vigorously until smooth and creamy.
- Chill & store – Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavours deepen as it sits, so it’s even better the next day.
Stored properly, this dressing will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks– making it perfect for meal prep and quick weeknight dinners.
How to Use It
Of course, this dressing shines on a classic vegan Caesar salad (think crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a sprinkle of vegan parmesan). But don’t stop there:
- Drizzle over roasted vegetables for a flavour boost.
- Use as a dip for fresh veggies or pita.
- Toss with quinoa, farro, or rice bowls for a creamy dressing alternative.
- Spread on wraps or sandwiches for a zesty kick.
Final Thoughts
This vegan Caesar salad dressing proves you don’t need dairy or anchovies to create something rich, satisfying, and deeply flavourful. With pantry staples like miso and vegan parmesan, you’ll have a go-to dressing that can elevate even the simplest salad.
So the next time you’re craving a Caesar, skip the bottled version and whisk up this homemade vegan Caesar dressing- you won’t believe how easy (and delicious) it is.
Simple, Creamy Vegan Caesar Salad Dressing
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp white miso paste
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 cup vegan mayonnaise
- ½ cup vegan parmesan
- ¼ tsp salt
- water (optional, to thin)* see instructions
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small mixing bowl and whisk vigorously, until well combined. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- *Should you prefer the salad dressing a little less thick, simply whisk in water (a tbsp at a time) until the desired consistency is achieved.
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[…] On salads for an instant flavour boost, or our caesar salad dressing […]
Solid flavour, pretty accurate to the “classic” caesar dressing
So glad you enjoyed!