A gluten-free, dairy-free, oil-free version of the creamy, tangy salad dressing you know and love. This vegan Caesar dressing is an easy, crowd-pleasing staple that will brighten up any salad or pasta.

glass bottle of vegan caesar dressing on a white table in front of a blue-green background

Why you’ll love this recipe

Minimal effort: With only 8 ingredients, 5 minutes, and a blender, this dressing comes together in a flash.
Incredible flavor: This vegan Caesar dressing has a bright, savory flavor thanks to wholesome ingredients, including tofu, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and miso paste.
Meets dietary needs: This dressing is oil-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, and nut-free to accommodate a wide range of dietary needs.

Ingredients

Silken tofu: Silken tofu has a soft, smooth consistency that is very different from firm or extra-firm pressed tofu. You’ll use about ¼ of a standard package for this recipe. Drain off excess water as you remove it from the package but do not press the tofu before using it.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adds tangy brightness.
Water: To create the right consistency for the dressing. Use a bit more than what the recipe calls for if you prefer a thinner consistency.
Nutritional yeast: Adds a savory and umami flavor.
Dijon mustard: Adds depth of flavor and some creaminess to the dressing.
White miso paste: Also called shiro miso, white miso is milder in flavor than red miso. Miso adds saltiness and umami flavor. It is also high in probiotics, which support gut health.
Garlic powder: Garlic flavor is a hallmark of traditional Caesar dressing. Garlic powder is a convenient alternative to raw garlic and it blends smoothly and easily into the dressing.
Ground white pepper (or freshly cracked black pepper): Both offer a peppery kick but white pepper’s flavor and heat is a bit more subtle. Either will work fine, but if using black pepper, start with a smaller amount, as it will bring a more assertive flavor to the dressing.

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

overhead view of blender containing vegan caesar dressing

Step 1: Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender or food processor. Pulse until smooth. If you prefer a thinner dressing, add additional water in 1-teaspoon increments until you reach your desired consistency.

a hand pouring vegan caesar dressing from a glass bottle onto a salad

Step 2: Enjoy over Spring Salad or your favorite greens. Alternatively, use vegan Caesar dressing as a light, zesty pasta sauce.

small white bowl of salad topped with vegan caesar dressing with glass bottle of dressing in the background

Equipment

Measuring spoons
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Blender or food processor

Storage

Store any leftover vegan Caesar dressing in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Shake or stir well before using.

Vegan Caesar Dressing

The Essential Vegan

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size 4

Equipment

measuring spoons
cutting board
sharp knife
blender or food processor

Ingredients

4 ounces silken tofu (¼ of a standard package) drained
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (juice of approximately 1 medium lemon)
3 tablespoons water plus more if a thinner consistency is desired
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1 to 1½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon white miso paste
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon ground white pepper or freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender or food processor.
Pulse until ingredients are fully combined and the dressing has a smooth consistency.
If you prefer a thinner dressing, add additional water in 1-teaspoon increments, tasting as you go, until desired consistency is reached.
Serve on your favorite salad. Vegan Caesar dressing will also work as a light, zesty pasta sauce.