Melody's Caesar Dressing

Description: This classic creamy and tangy Caesar dressing is perfect for salads, featuring a blend of mayonnaise, olive oil, garlic, and zesty sauces. Prep time: 10 minutes. Recipe yield: Approximately 1.75 cups (about 7 servings). Estimated calories per serving: 350 calories (for a 1/4 cup serving).

Begin by mincing the 3 garlic cloves very finely, or grate them into a smooth paste using a microplane.

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup of mayonnaise, generous 1/2 cup of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of dry mustard, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 5 squirts of Tabasco sauce, 4 squirts of Worcestershire sauce, the minced garlic, and the fresh juice from 1/2 a lemon.

Whisk all the ingredients vigorously until the dressing is completely smooth and thoroughly combined. Ensure there are no lumps.

Taste the dressing and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.

For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Optional additions to enhance your dressing: Consider adding 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a sharper tang, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor, 1 minced anchovy fillet for authentic Caesar umami, or 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for freshness.