Name: Creamy Vinaigrette
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-484727H51M31S
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or lemon juice for a citrus twist); 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness); 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for a creamier texture); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional); 1 teaspoon fresh or dried herbs (like parsley, thyme, or oregano, optional)

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Introduction

If you’re looking for a dressing that combines the brightness of a vinaigrette with the rich creaminess of a traditional creamy dressing, look no further! This Creamy Vinaigrette is a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and smooth. Made with a simple combination of vinegar, mustard, olive oil, and Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), this dressing brings a velvety texture to your salads, bowls, and even as a dip for veggies. The tang from the vinegar and Dijon mustard is beautifully mellowed by the creamy element, making it versatile enough to pair with a variety of dishes. Whether you’re drizzling it over a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or using it as a dressing for your favorite grain bowl, this creamy vinaigrette is a refreshing yet indulgent addition to any meal. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, this dressing is sure to become a household favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Balanced Flavor

This vinaigrette offers the perfect balance of tangy and creamy, making it a delicious addition to any dish, from salads to roasted vegetables.

2. Quick and Simple

In just 5 minutes, you can whip up this creamy dressing with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge.

3. Customizable

You can adjust the flavors to your taste by adding more mustard for extra tang, a little honey for sweetness, or even fresh herbs for a unique twist.

4. Healthy Option

Made with Greek yogurt or a light mayonnaise, this dressing provides a creamy texture without the heaviness of traditional creamy dressings.

5. Versatile

This creamy vinaigrette isn’t just for salads—use it as a dip for veggies, a sauce for roasted potatoes, or even as a marinade for chicken and fish.

Ingredients

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
1 garlic clove, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley, basil, or chives)

Variations

Herb-Infused Creamy Vinaigrette: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme for a fresh, herbal twist.
Spicy Creamy Vinaigrette: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Lemon Creamy Vinaigrette: Add a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice for a citrusy zing.
Avocado Creamy Vinaigrette: For a richer, creamy texture, blend in half an avocado instead of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise). This will form the base of your dressing.

Step 2: Add Sweetener and Garlic

Stir in the honey or maple syrup (if using) for a touch of sweetness, and then add the minced garlic or garlic powder. Whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Season to Taste

Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you’re using fresh herbs, stir them in now.

Step 4: Adjust Consistency and Flavor

Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning. If it’s too tangy, add more honey or a little extra olive oil to mellow it out. If you like it more tangy, add more vinegar.

Step 5: Serve

Drizzle the creamy vinaigrette over your favorite salads, roasted veggies, or grilled chicken. It also works well as a dipping sauce for crudités or potatoes.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Full-Fat Greek Yogurt: For the creamiest texture, use full-fat Greek yogurt or mayonnaise. Light versions can work, but they won’t have the same richness.
Whisk or Shake Well: For the smoothest consistency, whisk the dressing thoroughly. If you’re using a jar, you can shake the ingredients together to blend them.
Make It Ahead: This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors meld and develop even more over time.
Taste as You Go: Adjust the sweetness, tanginess, and garlic level based on your personal preference. You can add more honey for sweetness or more vinegar for tang.

How to Serve

This Creamy Vinaigrette is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for drizzling over fresh salads, but it can also be used as a dip for vegetables or chips. It’s delicious over roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or cauliflower. You can also use it as a sauce for grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish, or as a dressing for grain bowls with quinoa, farro, or couscous.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Be sure to shake or whisk it again before using, as the ingredients may separate.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this creamy vinaigrette as the texture may change when thawed. It’s best to make it fresh.

Reheating

This dressing does not require reheating, but if it has been stored in the fridge and solidified, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes and give it a good shake or whisk before using.

FAQs

1. Can I use mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can replace Greek yogurt with mayonnaise for a richer, creamier texture. You can also use a 50/50 mix of both for a nice balance.

2. Can I skip the garlic?

If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can leave it out, or substitute it with garlic powder for a milder taste.

3. How long will this dressing last in the fridge?

The dressing will last for up to 7 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

4. Can I make this vegan?

Yes, simply use vegan mayonnaise or omit the yogurt and use avocado for creaminess instead.

5. Can I make this dressing spicier?

Yes, add some cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.

6. Can I use this as a marinade?

Yes, this dressing works wonderfully as a marinade for chicken, vegetables, or tofu.

7. Can I make this dressing without vinegar?

You can substitute the vinegar with lemon juice or use more mustard for the tangy flavor.

8. How can I adjust the consistency?

If the vinaigrette is too thick, add a little water or extra olive oil to thin it out. If it’s too thin, add a little more yogurt or mayonnaise.

9. Can I use this as a dip?

Yes, this creamy vinaigrette is perfect as a dip for veggies, pita chips, or fries.

10. Can I make this dressing in bulk?

Yes, you can double or triple the recipe to make a larger batch, and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Conclusion

This Creamy Vinaigrette is a perfect balance of tangy and rich, offering a velvety dressing for all your salads, veggies, and grains. It’s quick to make, easily customizable, and a healthier option compared to many store-bought creamy dressings. Give it a try, and elevate your meals with this delicious homemade vinaigrette!