Creamy Greek Salad Dressing Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a delightful, tangy, and rich way to dress up your salads, this Creamy Greek Salad Dressing Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines the bold flavors of red wine vinegar, zesty lemon, and aromatic oregano with the smoothness of olive oil and a subtle hint of Dijon mustard. This dressing instantly transforms simple greens into a Mediterranean feast, bursting with color and flavor, making every bite vibrant and satisfying. It’s perfect for those who want a creamy dressing without the heaviness of mayo or dairy, striking the perfect balance between zest and creaminess.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential. Each plays a unique role, from the sharp acidity of red wine vinegar and lemon juice to the herbal warmth of oregano and the smooth texture olive oil brings to this Creamy Greek Salad Dressing Recipe.

• Red wine vinegar (⅓ cup): Adds a tangy, slightly sweet acidity that brightens the dressing.
• Lemon juice (1 lemon, juiced): Brings fresh citrus notes that lighten and complement the vinegar.
• Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Acts as a natural emulsifier and adds a gentle kick of spice.
• Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses the dressing with a savory depth that’s unmistakably Greek.
• Dried oregano (½ teaspoon): Delivers that classic Mediterranean herb flavor essential to the recipe.
• Kosher salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, keeping them crisp and balanced.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a mild warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Olive oil (½ cup): Provides a luscious, creamy texture while tying all the flavors together smoothly.

How to Make Creamy Greek Salad Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Vinegar and Lemon

Start by whisking together the red wine vinegar and freshly squeezed lemon juice. This acidic base is the foundation of your dressing’s bright and lively profile, awakening the palate right from the start.

Step 2: Add Mustard and Garlic

Next, whisk in the Dijon mustard and minced garlic. Dijon mustard not only adds flavor but also helps to emulsify your dressing, making it creamy without any cream. The garlic adds an irresistible savory punch that makes this dressing uniquely Greek.

Step 3: Season with Herbs and Spices

Sprinkle in the dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. The oregano brings in a fragrant earthiness, while salt and pepper refine the flavor, ensuring your dressing is perfectly seasoned.

Step 4: Slowly Incorporate Olive Oil

While stirring vigorously, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. This gradual process helps the dressing emulsify, achieving that luscious, creamy texture you’re aiming for. The olive oil also adds a silky richness that beautifully balances the tangy ingredients.

How to Serve Creamy Greek Salad Dressing Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped herbs like parsley or dill sprinkle beautifully over a salad dressed with this creamy dressing, enhancing the herbal notes. For extra texture and flavor, toss in some crumbled feta or kalamata olives – the saltiness pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing.

Side Dishes

This dressing isn’t just for salads; it’s fantastic drizzled over grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant, adding a zesty creaminess that complements smoky char. It also pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread or grilled chicken, making your entire meal taste like a seaside Mediterranean escape.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your salad in individual mason jars layered with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, then topped with a generous drizzle of this Creamy Greek Salad Dressing Recipe. The presentation is charming, and the dressing stays fresh and creamy until ready to toss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Greek Salad Dressing Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Because the dressing contains no dairy, it holds up beautifully, but make sure to give it a good shake or stir before using, as the olive oil may naturally separate.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, this dressing doesn’t freeze well due to the olive oil separating and changing texture. For the creamiest experience, stick to refrigerating and shaking it up before use.

Reheating

This dressing is best served cold or at room temperature to maintain its vibrant flavors. Avoid reheating, as warmth can dull the acidity and break the emulsification, resulting in a less appetizing texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh oregano instead of dried?

Absolutely! Fresh oregano provides a brighter, more herbaceous flavor. Use about one teaspoon chopped fresh oregano to replace the dried version, but add it at the end to keep its flavor vibrant.

Is this dressing dairy-free?

Yes! One of the best parts about this Creamy Greek Salad Dressing Recipe is that its creamy texture comes from olive oil and mustard, without any cream or yogurt, making it a perfect dairy-free option.

Can I make this dressing vegan?

It already is vegan! The ingredients are all plant-based, so you can confidently use it in vegan recipes without worry.

How long will the dressing stay good in the fridge?

Stored in a sealed container, it will last about one week. Always give it a quick shake before each use to recombine the ingredients for the best taste and texture.

Can I adjust the acidity to be less sharp?

Certainly! If the red wine vinegar and lemon juice make the dressing too tangy for your taste, mellow it out by reducing the vinegar slightly or adding a touch more olive oil to balance the acidity.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully comforting and uplifting about whipping up your own dressing, and this Creamy Greek Salad Dressing Recipe nails it with every pour. It brings a fresh, bright, and creamy zing that effortlessly turns ordinary salads into something memorable. I encourage you to try it and savor the authentic Mediterranean flavors it delivers. Your taste buds, and your salads, will thank you.

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