What is the main ingredient in a traditional Caesar salad dressing?

The primary ingredient in a traditional Caesar salad dressing is anchovies. These small, oily fish contribute a distinctive umami flavor that is central to the dressing's character. When blended with other ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, egg yolks, and Parmesan cheese, anchovies help create a rich, savory, and creamy dressing that enhances the overall taste of the Caesar salad.

While garlic, mustard, and olive oil are also components that may be used in different variations of salad dressings, none serve as the signature ingredient as much as anchovies do in the classic preparation. Garlic provides flavor, mustard can add tanginess, and olive oil serves as a base fat, but it is the anchovies that are traditionally recognized for delivering the unique depth and complexity associated with Caesar dressing.