Dessert

Dressing Without Anchovies Recipe

Bymia larkspur January 20, 2026January 20, 2026

Introduction

This creamy dressing without anchovies delivers bold, tangy flavor perfect for salads or as a dip. It uses simple ingredients like mayonnaise, garlic, and caper brine to mimic the depth of traditional dressings, making it a great option for those avoiding anchovies.

A white bowl filled with a Caesar salad showing about three layers: at the bottom, fresh green romaine lettuce leaves, bright and crisp; middle layer with crunchy golden-brown croutons scattered around; top layer covered in creamy white Caesar dressing with small bits of grated cheese sprinkled on it, and a light dusting of black pepper. A gold fork is placed on the right edge of the bowl, resting on the lettuce. Behind the bowl, there is a glass jar of dressing and a white plate holding lemon wedges, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup Mayonnaise
2 cloves Garlic (pressed, finely minced)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp Lemon juice
1 tsp Anchovy-free Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp Caper brine
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
1/2 tsp Black pepper (freshly ground)
Salt (if needed, to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Use a garlic press or microplane to finely mince or mash the garlic, then place it in a medium-sized bowl.
Step 2: Add lemon juice, Dijon mustard, caper brine, and anchovy-free Worcestershire sauce to the bowl with the garlic.
Step 3: Stir in the mayonnaise and whisk for 20-30 seconds until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and season with salt if desired.
Step 5: In a large salad bowl, toss romaine lettuce with additional Parmesan cheese, croutons, and the prepared dressing.
Step 6: Finish by sprinkling extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper on top before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra zing, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar instead of lemon juice.
Use vegan mayonnaise and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
Adjust the amount of caper brine according to how tangy you want the dressing.
If you like a smoother dressing, blend all ingredients in a food processor before tossing with salad.

Storage

Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir well before use. This dressing tastes best fresh but can be used as a flavorful dip or salad dressing chilled.

How to Serve

A glass jar filled with creamy, pale yellow sauce speckled lightly with black pepper sits on a small round wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. A golden spoon sticks out of the jar, and the jar's lid is open and leaning to the right. Around the jar, there are scattered pieces of garlic cloves, a wedge of lemon, some fresh green lettuce leaves, and a block of cheese. In the background, a tall wooden pepper grinder stands against a blurred white marbled wall. The whole setting looks fresh and bright with natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh capers instead of caper brine?

Fresh capers add texture but lack the salty, tangy liquid that caper brine provides. If you use fresh capers, consider adding a bit of extra lemon juice or a splash of vinegar to maintain acidity.

Is this dressing suitable for people allergic to fish?

Yes, this recipe uses anchovy-free Worcestershire sauce and no anchovies, making it safe for those avoiding fish. Always check the Worcestershire label to ensure it’s anchovy-free.