If you love Caesar salad, then this Savory Caesar Dip will be your new favorite snack! This creamy, tangy dip transforms the bold flavors of Caesar dressing into a rich, shareable dish perfect for veggies, crackers, breadsticks, or even chicken wings. Made with classic ingredients like Parmesan, garlic, and anchovies (or a vegetarian-friendly substitute), it’s quick to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this dip is always a hit!
Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 anchovy fillets, finely minced (or 1 tsp anchovy paste; optional for vegetarian substitute: ½ tsp capers)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley, additional Parmesan, or cracked black pepper
Preparation
- Mix the Base Ingredients:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Add the Flavors:
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovies (or capers for a vegetarian-friendly option).
- Brighten with Lemon Juice:
- Add the lemon juice and mix thoroughly. Taste the dip and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Chill and Garnish:
- Cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley, additional Parmesan, or cracked black pepper for garnish.
Variations
- Spicy Caesar Dip: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery twist.
- Herb Caesar Dip: Stir in 1–2 teaspoons of chopped fresh herbs like dill, chives, or basil for an herby flavor boost.
- Greek Yogurt Caesar Dip: Replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Cooking Notes
- Anchovy Alternative: If anchovies aren’t your preference, capers or a splash of soy sauce can mimic the savory umami flavor.
- Consistency Tip: For a thinner dip, add a tablespoon of milk, one at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Make-Ahead Option: This dip can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Serving Suggestions
- Veggie Platter: Pair the dip with crunchy veggies like carrots, celery, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
- Crackers and Bread: Serve with crispy crackers, pita chips, or toasted baguette slices.
- Protein Pairing: Use it as a dipping sauce for chicken tenders, grilled shrimp, or roasted potatoes.
- Salad Add-On: Thin it out slightly and use it as a Caesar-inspired salad dressing.
Tips for Success
- Fresh Parmesan is Key: Grate your own Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated cheese can be too dry.
- Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality mayonnaise and fresh lemon juice make a big difference in taste.
- Let it Chill: Allowing the dip to rest for 30 minutes enhances its depth of flavor.
Prep Time, Chill Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sodium: 260mg
FAQs
Can I make this dip vegan?
A: Yes! Replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo, use plant-based sour cream, and substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast. Skip the anchovies or use capers for a savory punch.
How long does Savory Caesar Dip last?
A: It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
What can I use instead of anchovies?
A: Capers, soy sauce, or even a small splash of miso paste can replicate the umami flavor of anchovies.
Conclusion
Savory Caesar Dip is a quick and flavorful appetizer that transforms the iconic Caesar salad into a creamy, crave-worthy dip. Packed with bold flavors, it’s perfect for parties, game days, or simple snacking. With its versatile pairing options and easy preparation, this dip is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Try it out and watch it disappear in no time!