I’m a sucker for a great Caesar salad. If it’s on the menu at a restaurant, I want it. But the thing is…Caesar dressing isn’t vegan. It’s not even vegetarian! So let’s change that. We’ve done a good vegetarian Caesar salad before, but I wanted to create a vegan version so all eaters can enjoy it. Traditional Caesar dressing is made using parmesan and anchovies. And while they make very good Caesar Beans on Toast, both are no-go’s for a vegan dressing. To replace these umami flavors, I put on my food scientist hat and got to work. I settled on capers to mimic the anchovy and tahini to replicate the parmesan.
Why you’ll love it
One bowl is all you need to mix up this tasty vegan dressing! Packed with flavor and creamy texture just like traditional Caesar dressing all thanks to capers and tahini! A versatile dressing that can be used on a salad, in a wrap, on toast, or just as a dip!
Ingredients for vegan tahini Caesar dressing
To make this vegan dressing, you only need a few select ingredients that each bring big flavor! Below is a quick overview of what you’ll need but be sure to check the recipe card for the full list of ingredients.
The Creamy Base: To get that classic creamy texture Caesar dressing is known for, you’ll need tahini and dairy-free yogurt. You can use store-bought tahini or homemade tahini. The Tang: Grab lemon juice, capers (and the brine!), and Dijon mustard. These help to replicate the anchovy flavor found in traditional Caesar dressing. Staples: Like any great salad dressing, this one needs garlic, salt, pepper, and a little water to thin it out.
How to make Vegan Caesar Dressing
This dressing only takes about 5 minutes to make! Here’s a brief rundown of making it, but be sure to check the recipe card for the full instructions.
Storage
This dressing should be stored in the fridge and is best enjoyed at room temperature or chilled. It will last in an air-tight container for up to 5 days in the fridge. If I know I won’t use the dressing right away, I like to mix it in a mason jar so it can be stored directly in it too.
Why this Recipe Works
Vegan yogurt makes this dressing uber creamy! It only needs a little bit but that little bit takes this recipe from good to great! It’s also a lot easier than blending cashews as some other recipes do. Drippy tahini is a must for this salad dressing recipe. Some tahini is too dry and doesn’t mix well which isn’t good for a creamy dressing. Capers add the same ultra-salty and savory flavor that anchovies add.
Why isn’t Caesar dressing vegan?
Caesar dressing is traditionally made of egg yolks, parmesan, and anchovies (small canned fish). None of the ingredients are vegan.
Can I use something in place of the yogurt?
You could theoretically blend cashews and water to replicate the creaminess of vegan yogurt. But with the availability of good dairy-free yogurts, that’s my preference!
Ways to use Tahini caesar dressing
On a salad, like this Roasted Chickpea Salad, a Crunchy Kale Chickpea Salad, or even on a pasta salad or Grilled Zucchini Corn Salad. As a dip for Roasted Vegetables or Smashed Carrots. In a wrap like this Vegan Chicken Caesar Wrap or Easy Veggie Wraps. To marinade tofu, cauliflower, or mushrooms.
Did you make this recipe? Be sure to leave a review below and tag me @liveeatlearn on Facebook or Instagram!
