This is the ultimate savory, umami and tangy Caesar salad dressing made without any dairy, anchovies or eggs- but still packed with flavor! One bowl and a whisk is all thats needed- no blender required for this one! Tahini makes the perfect creamy, silky base without any dairy or oils needed. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy savory flavor, and capers and lemon add tang and brightness.
Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds similar to nut butter. Its known for its nutty flavor and creamy texture. When mixed with water it thickens up into a silky smooth paste making it a great dressing base. Nutritionally, tahini has many unique benefits. It is a great source of calcium and contains a special compound called lignans which have antioxidant properties and helps support hormone balance.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup tahini (or cashew butter for a milder flavor)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 heaping tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 lemon, juiced- about 2 or 3 tbsp
- 1 heaping tbsp capers, minced
- 2 tbsp miso paste
- 1/4 of a medium sized shallot, minced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
How to make it
- To a mixing bowl add tahini, water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, miso, shallot, garlic, black pepper and whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust flavor as needed, adding more lemon, salt, or garlic if desired. Adjust the water to get your preferred consistency. Use it right away or store in the fridge for up to four days.
Notes
- Cashew butter can be used in place of tahini for a milder flavor, but tahini gives this recipe a silky smooth consistency.
- Miso and the capers adds saltiness, but if you think it needs more you can add salt to your taste.
Add more or less water to get your desired consistency.
This nutritional yeast from Anthony’s is my favorite because its non fortified (my personal preference) and the 10 oz bag lasts a long time!
Nutritional yeast is known for having a “cheesey” flavor and is used in many non dairy/ vegan recipes. In this caesar dressing it adds a savory depth of flavor. It it surprisingly high in protein- just 2 tablesspoons provides 5 grams. It has many other nutritional benefits like supporting immune function and gut health. It contains beta-glucans, a special dietary fiber known to boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and lower cholesterol levels. Nutritional yeast is even a concentrated source of antioxidants, specifically glutathione which helps protect your body’s cells from free radical damage.
While on the topic of nutrition benefits- capers in this recipe are one of the richest sources of the flavinoid quercetin- which acts as an anti-inflammatory and antihistamine. This vegan caesar boosts several hidden benefits!
Ingredients
Method
- Add all ingredients to a small mixing bowl and whisk together til smooth. Add salt to your taste, and add more or less water to get your desired consistency. Use immediately or store in the fridge for 4 days.