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Caesar salad dressing is a creamy, savory sauce traditionally made from ingredients like egg yolks, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Parmesan cheese. It originated in Tijuana, Mexico, in the 1920s, created by Italian-American restaurateur Caesar Cardini. The dressing is the signature component of the classic Caesar salad, which typically includes romaine lettuce and croutons.
Caesar dressing is high in fat, primarily from olive oil and cheese, with moderate protein from eggs and Parmesan, and very low carbohydrates. A typical 2-tablespoon serving contains around 150-180 calories, providing healthy fats and some calcium, but it is calorie-dense due to its oil base.
Caesar dressing is culturally fascinating because it was invented by an Italian immigrant in Mexico, blending European techniques with local ingredients, and it originally included raw egg, which is now often pasteurized for safety. Nutritionally, its high-fat content makes it a rich source of monounsaturated fats from olive oil, which can support heart health when consumed in moderation.