Delicious Homemade Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today, I bring to you a tantalizing recipe for the most authentic Greek Salad Dressing. As someone who has traveled to Greece and tasted the real deal, I can assure you that this recipe will transport you straight to the land of sun and sea, where people relish their food with utmost passion.
This delightful dressing is not only easy-to-make but also extremely versatile. It can be used to prepare traditional Greek salads or as a marinade for chicken or fish. Vegetarians can also relish it with roasted vegetables or even as a pasta sauce. Trust me, the options are endless, and your taste buds will thank you.
But wait, there’s more! This salad dressing is also keto-friendly, low-carb, gluten-free and vegan. It’s perfect for anyone looking for healthier yet delicious alternatives.
What sets my recipe apart from others is its authenticity. Made with classic ingredients such as extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and fresh lemon juice, my recipe is almost identical to the dressing served in traditional Greek tavernas. The ingredients blend together beautifully to create a tangy yet zesty taste that will leave your guests asking for more.
So if you’re ready to take your taste buds on an authentic culinary journey filled with delightful flavors and textures, then let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re anything like me, then you are always searching for the perfect salad dressing that will make your greens taste amazing. Well, search no more because this Greek Salad Dressing recipe is sure to have you coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).
What sets this dressing apart is its mixture of fresh ingredients, including oregano and basil leaves, combined with a tangy red wine vinegar and zesty fresh lemon juice. The sweetness of the sugar perfectly balances the acidity of the vinegar and lemon juice, making this dressing a crowd-pleaser.
And let’s not forget about the olive oil – it’s the backbone of any good salad dressing recipe, providing a smooth texture and rich flavor. This dressing is made with extra virgin olive oil, which is loaded with health benefits from its high levels of healthy fats.
Whether you’re looking for a classic Greek salad dressing or something to impress your guests at your next dinner party, this recipe will not disappoint. So, hold onto your salad tongs – because you’re in for a treat!
Ingredient List
Let’s talk about the ingredients we will be using to make this delicious Greek Salad Dressing. As with any great recipe, having the right ingredients is key. It is always best to use fresh ingredients whenever possible; this will ensure maximum flavor and a delicious taste. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 1/2 cup
- Red Wine Vinegar, 1/4 cup
- Fresh Lemon Juice, 3 tablespoons
- Dijon Mustard, 1 teaspoon
- Garlic Cloves, minced – 3
- Dried Oregano Leaves, 2 teaspoons
- Basil Leaves, 2 teaspoons
- Sugar, 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
These key ingredients combined together create the perfect blend of flavors for your Greek Salad dressing. You can easily find these ingredients at your local grocery store or via online shopping.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have the ingredients ready, it’s time to start making the Greek Salad Dressing! This recipe is a classic and authentic version, perfect for any salad or dish.
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
The first step is to mix together the red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard and minced garlic in a mixing bowl.
Step 2: Whisking
Next, we will gradually whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is emulsified. Make sure to add it slowly while whisking vigorously so that everything is well combined.
Step 3: Adding the Herbs
Now that our dressing base is ready, we will add some herbs to it. Add dried oregano, fresh basil leaves and fresh oregano leaves to the dressing mixture and stir them gently.
Step 4: Seasoning
To give our Greek Salad Dressing its desired taste, we need to season it. Add some salt and pepper according to your own preferences. If you like, add some sugar to this mixture to make the dressing sauce slightly sweet.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Last but not least, stir in some freshly crumbled feta cheese into this mixture. The cheese will help bring all of the flavors together beautifully.
That’s it! Your homemade Greek Salad Dressing Recipe is now ready to serve or store in your refrigerator for later use!
Enjoy your delicious salad with this authentic and amazing dressing!
Substitutions and Variations
If you want to switch up the flavors in this Greek salad dressing recipe, there are a few substitutions and variations you can try. Firstly, if you don’t have red wine vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar instead. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but still delicious!
For a more authentic taste, you can use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled lemon juice. It will add a fresh burst of citrusy flavor that goes great with the oregano and basil leaves.
If you’re following a keto diet or just watching your sugar intake, you can substitute the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
For a twist on this classic Greek salad dressing, add some crumbled feta cheese for a tangy and creamy touch. You can also add some minced cucumber or chopped olives for extra texture.
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with whole grain mustard or honey mustard. Just make sure to adjust the salt level accordingly.
Lastly, for a more traditional Greek salad dressing recipe, omit the Dijon mustard and add some crumbled dried oregano to give it that authentic flavor.
Overall, feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make this Greek salad dressing recipe your own!
Serving and Pairing
Once you’ve made your homemade Greek salad dressing, you’ll want to start enjoying it with your favorite dishes. This versatile dressing is perfect for jazzing up a classic Greek salad, but it also pairs well with many other dishes.
To serve it with a classic Greek salad, mix your preferred amount of dressing over fresh vegetables such as crisp lettuce, juicy red tomatoes, cucumbers and crunchy bell peppers, then sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top to add an extra tangy flavor.
But don’t stop there! Pour the dressing over grilled chicken or fish or use it as a dipping sauce for tender pita bread. Incorporate this authentic dressing into your favorite pasta salad recipe or use it as a marinade for meat before grilling.
If you’re hosting a party, assemble a platter of sliced vegetables like carrots and celery to dip into the zesty sauce for a refreshing appetizer.
The bright flavors of the lemon juice and vinegar make this dressing the perfect complement to any dish. Try pairing it with other Mediterranean inspired meals including hummus, baba ganoush or grilled lamb chops.
Whether you’re craving something light and fresh or something savory and indulgent, this Greek salad dressing is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Once you’ve made this delicious Greek salad dressing, it’s easy to store and reheat for later use. Here’s how to do it right:
To store the dressing, let it cool down completely before transferring it to a clean and airtight container. It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you’re planning to use it for a long time, consider freezing it in an ice cube tray.
When reheating the dressing, don’t microwave or heat it over high heat as the ingredients may separate or break down. Instead, gently reheat it on low heat in a saucepan or skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
While this dressing can be made ahead and stored easily, remember that the flavors of the herbs and spices may intensify if left to sit for a long time. Be sure to shake or whisk the dressing well before serving.
Another tip is to make extra dressing and use it as a marinade for grilled chicken or fish. The flavors of this authentic and classic Greek salad dressing will blend perfectly with other dishes.
Overall, storing and reheating your homemade Greek salad dressing is simple, and with proper storage techniques, you’ll be able to enjoy its delicious taste at any time.
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making the perfect Greek salad dressing, you’ll want to ensure that every ingredient is balanced and complements each other. It is essential to use high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best results. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect Greek salad dressing:
1. Use fresh garlic cloves
Using fresh garlic will enhance the flavor of the dressing significantly. You can adjust the amount of garlic depending on your preference. Minced garlic is a key ingredient that adds depth and flavor to the dish.
2. Balance the flavors
Make sure to balance out the flavors of your dressing. If it feels too acidic, add a little more sugar or honey. On the other hand, if it’s too sweet, add more vinegar or lemon juice. Adjusting the flavor balance can make a huge difference in the overall taste of your dressing.
3. Shake it well
Before serving, shake or whisk your dressing well to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed. This step will help bring out all of the flavors and achieve the desired consistency.
4. Store it correctly
Store your Greek salad dressing in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to two weeks. It’s important to note that olive oil can solidify when refrigerated; remove it from the fridge about 10 minutes before using it and let it come back down to room temperature.
5. Don’t be afraid to experiment
Apart from traditional ingredients like red wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, consider trying different variations like balsamic vinegar or avocado oil for different twists on classic Greek salads.
By adhering to these tips, anyone can make an incredible, authentic Greek salad dressing right from their own kitchen!
FAQ
Now that we have covered all the details of making this delicious Greek Salad Dressing recipe, you might still have some questions in mind. Here are a few frequently asked questions regarding the recipe along with their answers. Let’s dive right in!
What is the dressing made of in a traditional Greek salad?
When it comes to a classic dressing for a Greek salad, a Greek vinaigrette is the way to go. This delicious dressing is made up of a combination of red wine vinegar, olive oil, and essential seasonings like lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic cloves, oregano, and salt and pepper.
What is creamy Greek dressing made of?
When it comes to making Greek salad dressing, you can’t go wrong with a classic combination of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and dried oregano. Fresh lemon juice can also be a great addition to enhance the flavors of the dressing. This simple recipe is a staple for any salad lover.
What is Mediterranean dressing made of?
Looking for a tasty and healthy salad dressing recipe? Try making your own Mediterranean Salad Dressing with olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, herbs, and spices. It’s a simple and delicious alternative to store-bought dressings that’s also packed with flavor. Give it a try and give your salad a fresh new taste.
What is the difference between a Greek salad and a Mediterranean salad?
The ingredients used in making Mediterranean salad and Greek salad are quite similar. These salads both consist of lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, feta cheese, and olives with a dressing made from olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Despite the similarities in their ingredients, they may differ slightly in flavor due to variations in the amounts and combinations of these ingredients used.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Greek Salad Dressing recipe will take your salad game to the next level. This dressing recipe is easy to make and has an authentic taste due to its traditional Greek ingredients. You can even store it for future use if you end up with any leftovers.
Whether you are on a keto diet or are looking for a classic dressing to top off your pasta or green salad, this recipe is perfect for you. By using high-quality ingredients such as extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and fresh herbs like oregano and basil leaves, you are sure to fall in love with this delicious dressing that has a mix of savory and tangy flavors.
So why settle for store-bought dressings when you can make your own homemade one? This Greek Salad Dressing recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to add a touch of tradition and authenticity to their food while enjoying the benefits of using healthy ingredients. So give it a try today and experience the difference yourself!
Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced then crushed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (Grey poupon)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (not bottled)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 5 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon basil leaves (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together and shake well to mix.
- Update 6/23/10: For a creamier dressing, add all ingredients except oil to a blender. Pulse several times to mix ingredients. With blender running on high, slowly pour oil into blender until mixture is creamy. Refrigerate.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!