Creamy Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
If you’ve ever wished you could bottle up the zesty, rich magic from your favorite Greek restaurant’s salad, you’re in for a treat. This Creamy Greek Salad Dressing blends luscious Greek yogurt, tangy olive oil and vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and classic Mediterranean herbs into one beautifully thick, flavor-packed dressing that comes together in just minutes. Whether you’re drizzling it over crisp greens, dunking pita wedges, or spooning it over grilled veggies, this recipe delivers that authentic Greek flavor with a creamy twist you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays its role; every spoonful marries creamy, tangy, and herby notes to create a truly unforgettable sauce. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need, plus a couple of tips to make your Creamy Greek Salad Dressing shine.
- Plain Greek yogurt: Use full-fat Greek yogurt for optimal creaminess and tang—it’s the foundation of this dressing’s texture.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Delivers richness and true Mediterranean flavor—always go for the best you can find.
- Red wine vinegar: Adds the classic Greek tang, balancing the yogurt’s creaminess and brightening up the flavors.
- Fresh lemon juice: For a sunny burst that makes all the flavors pop, fresh-squeezed is essential here.
- Garlic, minced: Imparts a gentle kick—just one clove does the trick for aromatic depth.
- Dried oregano: The unmistakable herb in Greek cuisine; dried works best for concentrated flavor.
- Dijon mustard: Rounds out the dressing and adds a tasty hint of sharpness.
- Salt and black pepper: Use to taste, making sure the flavors are well balanced.
- Optional crumbled feta cheese: Mix in 1–2 tablespoons for an indulgent, briny twist and extra body.
How to Make Creamy Greek Salad Dressing
Step 1: Whisk the Base
Start by grabbing a small mixing bowl and your trusty whisk—this recipe is all about fast, no-mess prep. Add the Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the bowl. Whisk until the mixture looks silky smooth and emulsified. This not only combines the flavors but also gives that dreamy, rich foundation that defines Creamy Greek Salad Dressing.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics and Herbs
Now’s the time to layer in some flavor. Sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and Dijon mustard. Stir everything together until the spices and aromatics are well-distributed. As soon as you catch a whiff of the oregano and garlic, you’ll know you’re on the right track to Mediterranean bliss!
Step 3: Season and Finish
Give your dressing a good taste. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, stirring well. If you’re craving even more richness and a little tang, this is the moment to fold in the optional crumbled feta cheese. The feta adds a delightful briny note and tiny pockets of texture.
Step 4: Adjust and Store
If you prefer a thinner pour, simply add a splash of cold water or milk and whisk again until the Creamy Greek Salad Dressing reaches your desired consistency. Pour everything into an airtight container or a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid. Your homemade dressing is ready for action!
How to Serve Creamy Greek Salad Dressing
Garnishes
A finishing flourish makes every dish memorable. Try a sprinkle of extra dried oregano or chopped fresh dill for a lovely pop of color. If you’re feeling fancy, a few crumbles of feta, or a light zesting of lemon, brings a little visual excitement and hints at the bright, fresh flavors inside.
Side Dishes
Creamy Greek Salad Dressing is much more than a salad companion! Drizzle it generously over a traditional Greek salad piled with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and bell peppers. Or spoon it onto grilled chicken, roasted potatoes, or as a dip for crunchy veggies and warm pita. It’s a star alongside any of your Mediterranean favorites.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or lunches, serve the dressing in a pretty glass jar or small bowl, nestled on a platter of assorted raw veggies, olives, and pita triangles for dipping. You can also drizzle it in a gorgeous swirl over composed salads for that restaurant-style look!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Creamy Greek Salad Dressing will stay fresh and vibrant for up to 5 days in the fridge, provided it’s sealed in an airtight container. Give it a good shake or stir before serving, as natural separation can happen.
Freezing
It’s best to enjoy this dressing fresh from the fridge, as freezing can cause the yogurt base to split and turn grainy. Make just what you need for the week, and you’ll always have a batch ready for salads and snacks.
Reheating
No reheating needed! Simply bring the dressing out of the fridge a little before serving to take off the chill, then stir or shake to restore its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use non-fat or low-fat Greek yogurt?
Yes, but keep in mind that full-fat Greek yogurt gives the creamiest texture and richest flavor. Non-fat versions work if you want to save calories, but the result might be a bit less luscious. You can always add a bit more olive oil to compensate.
What can I use instead of red wine vinegar?
If you’re out of red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar can step in; just note that the taste will shift slightly. Stick to vinegars with a gentle tang to keep the flavor balanced.
Is this Creamy Greek Salad Dressing gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients here are naturally gluten-free, making this dressing a perfect fit for gluten-sensitive diets. Just double-check any mustard you use to be sure.
Can I add fresh herbs to the dressing?
Certainly! Stir in a handful of freshly chopped dill, parsley, or chives for an extra burst of flavor and gorgeous green flecks throughout. It’s a tasty way to personalize your dressing and elevate even simple salads.
How can I make this dressing vegan?
Swap the Greek yogurt for a plain, unsweetened plant-based yogurt (like coconut or almond milk yogurt) and leave out the feta cheese. It won’t be quite as tangy or rich, but it’ll still deliver delicious, creamy results.
Final Thoughts
It’s nearly impossible not to fall for this Creamy Greek Salad Dressing—simple to make, bursting with flavors, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re reinventing your salads or crafting Mediterranean-inspired meals, give this dressing a go and watch your dishes get snapped up in no time!
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Creamy Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 3/4 cup 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this homemade Creamy Greek Salad Dressing. Made with Greek yogurt, olive oil, and a blend of Mediterranean flavors, this dressing is perfect for drizzling over salads or using as a dip. Easy to prepare and bursting with freshness!
Ingredients
Main Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional:
- 1–2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese for added richness
Instructions
- Mix the Base: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice.
- Add Flavor: Stir in minced garlic, oregano, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
- Enhance: Optionally, mix in crumbled feta cheese for extra richness.
- Store: Keep the dressing in the fridge in an airtight container. Remember to shake or stir before each use.
Notes
- For a thinner consistency, add a splash of water or milk.
- Pair this dressing with traditional Greek salads, grilled veggies, or pita bread.
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dressings and Sauces
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
