Cesar dressing is a popular salad dressing that often contains anchovies as a key ingredient. However, not all Cesar dressings actually contain anchovies. The use of anchovies varies between different brands and recipes. Here is a deeper look at whether Cesar dressing always contains anchovies.
The History of Cesar Dressing
Cesar dressing was invented in the 1920s by Italian immigrant restaurateur Caesar Cardini in Tijuana, Mexico. Cardini owned a restaurant called Caesar’s and supposedly invented the dressing on a busy Fourth of July weekend when his kitchen was running low on supplies.
The original Cesar dressing recipe contained the following ingredients:
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Garlic
- Egg
- Worcestershire sauce
- Parsley
- Black pepper
- Anchovies
So anchovies were definitely a key part of Cardini’s original Cesar dressing. The strong flavor of the anchovies gave the dressing a unique umami taste.
Anchovies as a Traditional Ingredient
Since Cardini’s original creation, anchovies have become a traditional ingredient included in many Cesar dressing recipes and products. The salty, fermented flavor of anchovies gives Cesar dressing its signature tangy taste that isn’t quite replicated without them.
Anchovies contain high levels of glutamate, an amino acid that gives foods an umami or savory flavor. When anchovies are mashed or blended into Cesar dressing, they provide a strong umami kick.
In addition to flavor, anchovies give Cesar dressing a thicker, creamier texture thanks to their high oil content. So they serve multiple purposes beyond just a briny taste.
Prevalence of Anchovies Today
Despite being a traditional component, not every bottle or restaurant version of Cesar dressing today contains anchovies. Many big brands and chain restaurants produce Cesar dressings without anchovies to appeal to a wider audience.
For example, popular brands like Ken’s and Kraft make Cesar dressings that do not contain anchovies. Some restaurant chains like McDonald’s also use anchovy-free Cesar dressing recipes.
Here is a table showing some major Cesar dressing brands and whether they contain anchovies:
| Brand | Contains Anchovies? |
|---|---|
| Cardini’s | Yes |
| Ken’s | No |
| Kraft | No |
| McDonald’s | No |
| Newman’s Own | Yes |
| Wish-Bone | No |
As you can see, some big names like Ken’s, Kraft, and Wish-Bone steer clear of anchovies in their mass market Cesar dressings. However, brands like Cardini’s and Newman’s Own that pride themselves on more authentic recipes do include anchovies.
Homemade and Restaurant Versions
When it comes to homemade Cesar dressing recipes, anchovies remain a staple ingredient in many recipes. Foodies and cooking enthusiasts wanting an authentic taste are more likely to embrace the strong umami flavor of anchovies.
Upscale restaurants are also more likely to include anchovies in their Cesar dressing recipes. High-end chefs recognize anchovies as a touch of sophistication rather than something to avoid.
On the flip side, cheaper restaurants and diners may leave anchovies out of their in-house Cesar dressings. Volume-driven eateries tend to appeal to the middle ground with their dressing recipes.
Pros and Cons of Anchovies in Cesar Dressing
Here is a quick rundown of some of the pros and cons of including anchovies in Cesar dressing:
Pros:
- Provides authentic, savory umami flavor
- Thickens texture and adds creaminess
- Rich source of healthy fats and nutrients like omega-3s
- Satisfies purists who expect anchovies in “real” Cesar dressing
Cons:
- Strong fishy taste turns some people off
- Not suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets
- More expensive ingredient that adds cost for restaurants and brands
- Often left out of mass market products to appeal to a wider audience
Nutrition Comparison With vs. Without Anchovies
In addition to flavor, the inclusion or exclusion of anchovies affects the nutrition profile of Cesar dressing. Here is a comparison:
| Nutrient | With Anchovies (2 tbsp) | Without Anchovies (2 tbsp) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 90 | 80 |
| Total Fat | 10 g | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g | 1 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg | 160 mg |
| Carbs | 1 g | 1 g |
| Protein | 1 g | 0 g |
| Calcium | 35 mg | 25 mg |
| Iron | 0.25 mg | 0.1 mg |
Key differences when anchovies are added include more total fat, protein, calcium, and iron. The higher amounts of protein and healthy fats help explain why Cesar dressing with anchovies leaves you feeling fuller compared to anchovy-free versions.
Cost Difference of Including Anchovies
Anchovies are one of the more costly ingredients in Cesar dressing. While small, they are an imported ingredient that requires processing and curing.
For brands that mass produce Cesar dressing at low price points, the extra cost of anchovies can noticeably eat into profits. This helps explain why huge brands like Kraft leave them out.
For restaurants, the cost difference is less noticeable when they make small batches of dressing in-house. Upscale eateries are also less concerned with keeping prices ultra-low. So they can afford the modest increase in using high-quality ingredients like anchovies in their Cesar dressing.
Finding Cesar Dressings With Anchovies
If the authentic flavor and added nutrition benefits of anchovies appeal to you, here are some tips for finding Cesar dressings containing them:
- Check ingredient labels and look for anchovies, anchovy paste, or anchovy fillets
- Opt for premium brands that pride themselves on an old-world recipe
- Make it yourself with anchovy fillets or anchovy paste
- Order Cesar salad at upscale restaurants that emphasize fresh ingredients
- Ask servers at full-service restaurants if their Cesar dressing contains anchovies
You may need to pay a little extra for the privilege, but seeking out versions with anchovies ensures you get the real deal.
Popularity and Availability of Anchovy-Based Cesar Dressing
Despite some brands and eateries leaving them out, anchovy-based Cesar dressing remains highly popular and available. It has a niche appeal at upscale establishments and a cult fanbase amongst home cooks and foodies. So while not always present, anchovy Cesar dressings aren’t too tricky to find.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while anchovies were part of Cesar Cardini’s original recipe, not all Cesar dressings today contain them. Mass market brands often exclude anchovies, while premium brands and restaurants are more likely to include them.
Anchovies provide an authentic umami flavor, creamier texture, and added nutrition. But the strong fishy taste also turns some people away. Those who enjoy anchovy flavor or want a more traditional Cesar dressing can still readily find options made with anchovies.
So in summary, no, Cesar dressing does not always contain anchovies. But the iconic salty fish remains a key ingredient in many Cesar dressings for its irreplaceable savory taste and texture.