The Very Best Vegan Caesar Dressing

Creamy, tangy, and full of umami, this vegan Caesar dressing gives you all the bold flavor of the classic—without the anchovies, eggs, or dairy. It’s made with simple plant-based ingredients like cashews, lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of Dijon for that signature bite. Perfect for tossing with crisp romaine, drizzling over grain bowls, or using as a dip for roasted veggies, this dressing proves that comfort food can be both wholesome and indulgent.

This dressing is as versatile as it is satisfying. Toss it with crisp romaine and crunchy croutons for a classic Caesar salad, drizzle it over roasted veggies or grain bowls, or use it as a dip for raw veggies and wraps. It’s one of those go-to sauces that instantly makes any meal taste more elevated and complete.

And the best part? It comes together in minutes—just blend, taste, and adjust to your liking. Simple, fresh, and full of flavor, this vegan Caesar dressing is one you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation.

Ingredient Notes for Vegan Caesar Dressing

• Cashews: Soaked cashews form the creamy base of the dressing, replacing dairy or egg traditionally used in Caesar. When blended, they create a smooth, rich texture that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Cashews are a great source of healthy fats, plant-based protein, and key minerals like magnesium, zinc, and copper, which support nerve function, bone health, and immunity. Soaking softens them for easier blending and better digestion, while also making their nutrients more bioavailable.

• Lemon: Lemon juice brings brightness and acidity that balances the creamy, savory elements. It enhances flavor without needing extra salt and adds a refreshing tang. Nutritionally, lemons are high in vitamin C, which supports immune function, collagen production, and antioxidant activity.

• Dijon Mustard: An essential emulsifier that helps bind the dressing together while adding gentle heat and acidity. Dijon mustard also contributes selenium and magnesium, trace minerals that aid in metabolism and energy production.

• Miso Paste: Miso is the secret to deep, savory umami flavor in vegan Caesar dressing. Its natural saltiness and fermentation complexity mimic anchovies beautifully. It’s rich in beneficial bacteria that may support gut health and is a good source of minerals like zinc and manganese.

• Garlic: Provides the characteristic bold, pungent bite that defines a Caesar dressing. Garlic contains allicin, a compound known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits, and may help support cardiovascular and immune health.

• Maple Syrup: Just a touch balances the sharpness of lemon and garlic. Maple syrup offers natural sweetness with subtle caramel undertones, plus trace minerals like manganese and zinc. It helps round out the overall flavor profile without making the dressing sweet.

• Nutritional Yeast: Gives the dressing its signature cheesy flavor while keeping it dairy-free. Nutritional yeast is a powerhouse of plant-based protein and often fortified with B12, making it especially useful for vegan diets. It adds savory depth and a creamy mouthfeel.

• Capers: These tiny, briny buds bring tang, salt, and complexity, replacing anchovies in a vegan-friendly way. They’re rich in antioxidants like quercetin and rutin, known for supporting circulation and reducing inflammation. Capers give the dressing that addictive, savory “pop” that makes Caesar salads crave-worthy.

Preparation Notes

• Soak the Cashews: Place raw cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in cold water) until softened. Drain but reserve the liquid before using.

• Blend Until Creamy: Blend the cashews first with 1-2 tbsps of the water you soaked them in. Blend until completely smooth. Then add the remaining ingredients and blend again.

• Taste and Adjust: Adjust lemon juice for brightness, miso for saltiness, or maple syrup for sweetness. The flavor should be bold and balanced.

• Storage: Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Shake or stir before each use, as natural separation can occur.

Serving Notes

• Toss with crisp romaine, homemade croutons, and toasted chickpeas for a classic vegan Caesar salad.

• Drizzle over roasted vegetables or grain bowls for a tangy, creamy finish.

• Use as a dip for raw veggies or sandwich spread.

• Thin with a little water or lemon juice to make a lighter salad drizzle or marinade.