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.
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
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.
Step 2: Enjoy over Spring Salad or your favorite greens. Alternatively, use vegan Caesar dressing as a light, zesty pasta sauce.
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.
Related
Looking for other vegan basics? Try these:
Vegan Caesar Dressing
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.
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.
Notes
- Vegan Caesar dressing will keep well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Shake or stir well before using.
