What types of dressing is used in the Caesar salad?

Caesar salad is traditionally dressed with Caesar dressing, which is a cream-based dressing often made with ingredients such as garlic, anchovies, eggs, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. This dressing is key to the distinct flavor profile of a Caesar salad, providing a rich and tangy taste that complements the crisp romaine lettuce and croutons typically used in the salad.

While other dressings listed, such as ranch or balsamic vinaigrette, are popular choices for a variety of salads, they do not deliver the signature taste that defines a Caesar salad. Ranch dressing, for instance, has a creamy but herbaceous flavor, and balsamic vinaigrette is tangy and sweet, neither of which aligns with the traditional Caesar flavor. Italian dressing is also a vinaigrette and would not provide the same creamy, savory essence.

Therefore, Caesar dressing is the authentic and required dressing that gives the Caesar salad its unique character and appeal.