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15 Essential Homemade Salad Dressings: From Creamy Ranch to Zesty Vinaigrette

A glass mason jar containing separated homemade salad dressing ingredients, primarily olive oil and spices, sitting on a marble surface.
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Stop buying store-bought dressings. These 15 homemade salad dressing recipes are quick, use simple ingredients, and deliver restaurant-style flavor to elevate your everyday salads. Make your own healthy, gluten-free, and vegetarian options in minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup vinegar (red wine or apple cider)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Gather all your ingredients for the base vinaigrette.
  2. In a small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. If using a bowl, whisk vigorously until the dressing is fully emulsified and creamy. If using a jar, seal the lid tightly and shake well until combined.
  4. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or a touch more sweetener if desired.
  5. Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to allow the oil to loosen slightly.
  6. Repeat this process using different oils, acids, and flavorings to create the other 14 variations listed in this collection.

Notes

  • For a creamy salad dressing, add 2 tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the base vinaigrette.
  • To make a gluten-free and vegan dressing, ensure you use maple syrup instead of honey.
  • This basic vinaigrette works well as a marinade for chicken or roasted vegetables.
  • Always use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor in your homemade salad dressing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastethisplate.com/best-homemade-salad-dressing-recipes/