This Greek Salad Dressing Recipe is a must-have for anyone who loves fresh, zesty flavors. In just 5 minutes, you can whip up this easy homemade vinaigrette that enhances any dish. Perfect for salads, marinades, or even as a dip, this dressing brings the vibrant taste of the Mediterranean to your table. With its bright lemon flavor and rich olive oil, it’s an essential addition to your cooking repertoire.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Dressing
- For Garnish
- How to Make Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
- Step 1: Combine Ingredients
- Step 2: Shake Well
- Step 3: Add Feta (Optional)
- Step 4: Season to Taste
- Step 5: Serve or Store
- How to Serve Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
- Drizzle Over Fresh Salads
- Marinade for Proteins
- Dip for Vegetables
- Flavor Boost for Sandwiches
- How to Perfect Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
- Best Side Dishes for Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
- Reheating Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Greek Salad Dressing Recipe?
- How long does homemade Greek salad dressing last?
- Can I customize my Greek Salad Dressing Recipe?
- Is this dressing healthy?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 5 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for drizzling on salads, marinating proteins, or adding flavor to grilled vegetables.
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like lemon juice and extra-virgin olive oil for a healthy twist.
- Customizable Flavor: Adjust the salt and pepper to suit your taste; even add feta for an extra creamy touch.
- Storage Friendly: Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 weeks, so you always have delicious dressing on hand.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Greek salad dressing, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make the process simple and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pint jar with a tight-fitting lid
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Pint jar with a tight-fitting lid: Essential for shaking the dressing until fully emulsified, ensuring all flavors blend perfectly.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements guarantee the right balance of tangy and savory flavors in your dressing.
Ingredients
This easy homemade Greek vinaigrette is tangy, zesty, and ready in just 5 minutes! It’s perfect for drizzling over a classic Greek salad but also works beautifully as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, or vegetables. With bright lemon, rich olive oil, garlic, and oregano, this dressing delivers authentic Mediterranean flavor to any dish.
For the Dressing
- ¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon (about ¼ cup juice)
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ cup crumbled feta (optional)
- Salt, to taste (about ½ teaspoon)
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste (about ¼ teaspoon)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a pint jar (or any jar with a tight-fitting lid), combine the following ingredients:
1. ¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil
2. Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
3. ¼ cup red wine vinegar
4. 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
5. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
6. 1 clove garlic, minced
Step 2: Shake Well
Cover the jar tightly and shake vigorously until all ingredients are fully emulsified.
Step 3: Add Feta (Optional)
If desired, add in the crumbled feta cheese. Shake again gently to distribute evenly without breaking up the feta too much.
Step 4: Season to Taste
Taste your dressing and adjust seasoning by adding salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your preference.
Step 5: Serve or Store
Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Before serving from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes or microwave briefly to soften if needed. Shake well before serving!
Enjoy your homemade Greek salad dressing!
How to Serve Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
This homemade Greek salad dressing recipe is versatile and can elevate many dishes beyond a traditional salad. Here are some delicious ways to serve it.
Drizzle Over Fresh Salads
- Toss it with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing side salad.
- Use it as a dressing for grain salads like quinoa or farro mixed with veggies.
Marinade for Proteins
- Marinate chicken breasts in this dressing for at least 30 minutes before grilling for added flavor.
- Use the dressing with shrimp before sautéing or grilling to infuse a Mediterranean twist.
Dip for Vegetables
- Serve it as a dip alongside fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, bell peppers, and celery.
- Drizzle over roasted vegetables to enhance their taste and add a zesty finish.
Flavor Boost for Sandwiches
- Spread it onto wraps or sandwiches for an extra layer of flavor.
- Combine with cream cheese for a spread that complements bagels or crackers.
How to Perfect Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
Creating the best Greek salad dressing is simple with these helpful tips. Follow them to ensure your dressing is perfectly balanced every time.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and high-quality olive oil will significantly enhance the flavor of your dressing.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your dressing after mixing. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference for a balanced taste.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra burst of flavor.
- Store properly: Keep the dressing in an airtight container in the fridge, shaking well before each use to recombine ingredients.
- Serve at room temperature: Letting the dressing sit out for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully when serving.
Best Side Dishes for Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
Pairing your Greek salad dressing with complementary side dishes can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant drizzled with the dressing before grilling enhance their natural sweetness.
- Hummus and Pita Bread: A classic Mediterranean combination; serve your hummus with pita chips or bread along with this tangy dressing on the side.
- Roasted Potatoes: Toss baby potatoes in olive oil and roast until golden; serve drizzled with Greek salad dressing for added zest.
- Tabbouleh Salad: This bulgur wheat salad mixed with parsley and tomatoes pairs perfectly when dressed lightly with Greek vinaigrette.
- Feta Cheese Platter: Serve crumbled feta cheese drizzled with this dressing alongside olives and crusty bread.
- Chickpea Salad: Combine canned chickpeas, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion; dress generously for a hearty side dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Greek salad dressing, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Using Low-Quality Olive Oil: The flavor of olive oil greatly affects your dressing. Always choose high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Overdoing the Garlic: While garlic adds great flavor, too much can overpower the dressing. Stick to one clove and adjust according to your taste.
- Neglecting to Emulsify: Proper mixing is key. Be sure to shake the jar well until all ingredients blend together for a smooth dressing.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Salt and pepper enhance flavors. Don’t forget to season your dressing after tasting; this step can elevate your dish significantly.
- Not Storing Properly: Improper storage can affect freshness. Always keep your dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3 weeks in the fridge.
- Take note that olive oil may solidify when cold.
Freezing Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
- Freezing is not recommended for this dressing due to its oil and vinegar base.
- If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container.
- Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Reheating Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to a low temperature and warm gently in an oven-safe dish.
- Microwave: Heat for a few seconds on low power; stir before using.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a small saucepan, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Greek Salad Dressing Recipe?
A Greek Salad Dressing Recipe typically includes olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, and sometimes feta cheese. It’s tangy and perfect for salads or marinades.
How long does homemade Greek salad dressing last?
Homemade Greek salad dressing can last up to 3 weeks when stored properly in the refrigerator.
Can I customize my Greek Salad Dressing Recipe?
Yes! You can adjust ingredients like adding more herbs or adjusting acidity levels based on your taste preferences.
Is this dressing healthy?
Absolutely! This Greek salad dressing is made with wholesome ingredients like olive oil and fresh herbs, making it a healthier choice compared to store-bought dressings.
Final Thoughts
This Greek salad dressing recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with vibrant flavors that enhance any dish. Feel free to customize it with additional herbs or spices according to your preference. Enjoy this versatile dressing on salads, grilled vegetables, or as a marinade!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
Description
Elevate your meals with this quick and flavorful Greek Salad Dressing Recipe. In just 5 minutes, you can create a zesty vinaigrette that adds a burst of Mediterranean flavor to any dish. This homemade dressing combines fresh lemon juice, rich extra-virgin olive oil, aromatic garlic, and dried oregano for a perfectly balanced taste. Ideal for drizzling over fresh salads, marinating proteins, or even serving as a dip for vegetables, this versatile dressing will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to customize—add crumbled feta for creaminess or adjust the seasoning to suit your palate. Store it in the fridge for up to three weeks and enjoy the vibrant flavors anytime!
Ingredients
- ¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon (about ¼ cup)
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- In a pint jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine olive oil, lemon juice and zest, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, and minced garlic.
- Secure the lid and shake vigorously until fully emulsified.
- If desired, add crumbled feta cheese and shake gently to incorporate.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. Shake well before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Salad Dressing
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 30g
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
