Caesar Vinaigrette Recipe

This homemade Caesar Vinaigrette is a tangy, flavorful dressing that brings a fun twist to the traditional Caesar salad. Unlike the classic Creamy Caesar Dressing, this vinaigrette version is lighter and perfect for those who prefer a more vibrant, zesty taste. This recipe incorporates the essential elements of a Caesar dressing, such as Parmesan cheese and anchovy paste, but with a vinaigrette twist that makes it versatile for various salads and dishes.

Homemade Caesar Vinaigrette

One of my favorite things to make at home is a good salad dressing. You can toss in all of your favorite ingredients along with some oil and vinegar, blend, and you’ve got a fresh, homemade dressing that is perfect for your next green salad or pasta salad.

Not that there’s anything wrong with store-bought dressings. I have more than my fair share of them in my fridge right now. One of my favorites is the Newman’s Own Caesar, and that’s what inspired this recipe.

Get all of my Traeger Recipes here!

Caesar Vinaigrette shopping list

Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Water
• White Vinegar
• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Grated Parmesan Cheese
• Sugar
• Anchovy Paste (optional but adds a TON of flavor and really makes it signature “Caesar”)
• Sea Salt
• Dried Oregano
• Garlic (Minced)
• Dijon Mustard
• Black Pepper
• Cayenne Pepper
• Paprika

Toss with our Grilled Caesar Pasta Salad!

How to make Homemade Caesar Vinaigrette

Wondering what you’re getting yourself into when you make this dish? Here’s a quick overview of the process! Make sure you follow the instructions at the recipe card at the bottom of the post while you’re cooking.

1. Combine Ingredients: Place all ingredients into a quart-sized mason jar.
2. Shake Vigorously: Secure the lid and shake the jar vigorously until the ingredients are well combined and emulsified.
3. Chill: Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
4. Serve: Shake well before each use and pour over your favorite salad.
5. Enjoy: Savor the tangy and savory flavors with every bite.

Try with our Traeger Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks!

Homemade Caesar Vinaigrette FAQ

Caesar vinaigrette has a lighter, tangier taste compared to traditional Caesar dressing. It combines the classic Caesar flavors of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and anchovies with a more pronounced acidic component from vinegar or lemon juice. The result is a bright, zesty flavor with a savory and slightly salty undertone, and a lighter texture than the creamy version.

How to make Paul Newman Caesar Salad Dressing?

There are no official published recipes from the Paul Newman company on how to make their signature Caesar dressing. This recipe shared here is the closest I could get during my testing.

Does all Caesar dressing have anchovies?

All authentic Caesar dressing contains anchovies. That being said, you can omit them if you cannot or choose not to eat fish. You will miss out on some of that big flavor and umami that the anchovy adds, but you’ll still end up with a delicious dressing.

Blackstone Blackened Shrimp Caesar Wrap

More great recipes with vinegar to try!

Creamy Greek Salad Dressing

Potsticker Sauce

Mignonette Sauce for Oysters

Try these homemade dressings!