Before Caesar, There Was This Celery-Forward Hotel Salad Dressing

Salad dressings have changed a lot over the years, but some timeless recipes remain worth bringing back. One such classic is a celery-forward dressing that once graced hotel menus, delivering rich umami flavors without overshadowing the salad’s freshness.

The Legacy of Celery-Forward Dressing

Before the Caesar salad became the iconic dish it is today, hotels and restaurants often featured dressings centered on celery as a primary flavor. This style reflects a time when strong, savory notes were favored to complement simple greens. The dressing typically balanced tangy, salty, and herby elements, making it a versatile companion to various salads.

Characteristics of the Dressing

Umami taste: The dressing boasts a strong, savory flavor often derived from anchovies or Worcestershire sauce.
Fresh celery essence: Celery seeds or minced celery impart a crisp, aromatic quality.
Simple yet bold: Unlike cream-based dressings, it relies on oil, vinegar, and seasoning for depth.
Hotel classic: Many upscale hotels offered this dressing as a signature, evoking an elegant dining experience.

"This celery-forward dressing was a staple before the rise of the Caesar, marked by its umami kick balancing with fresh vegetal notes."

Why Bring It Back?

Reviving this dressing offers a fresh take on nostalgic flavors that modern salad dressers and eaters might enjoy. It's a reminder that salad dressings don't need to be overly creamy or heavy to be satisfying; robust herb and spice profiles can deliver memorable taste experiences.

This celery-based hotel dressing is a flavorful, umami-rich alternative to contemporary dressings, holding nostalgic appeal and offering fresh complexity to salads.

Tasting Table on MSN — 2025-11-28