Easy Creamy Salad Dressing – Joby's Test Kitchen (2024)

This homemade salad dressing is easy to make with a few simple ingredients.

We’re not huge salad eaters, which is kind of surprising considering I’m a dietitian. Also, my kids are not huge fans of condiments, even more surprising since many kids are!

So buying a whole jar or bottle of salad dressing for our family doesn’t make sense.

Instead, I like to whip up small batches of dressing whenever we do have a salad or fresh-cut veggies. This way, nothing gets wasted.

Though my go-to dressing is usually a simple balsamic vinaigrette, I sometimes I want a creamy one similar to Ranch.

My homemade creamy dressing is easy to make with only a few ingredients, and is customizable based on your preferences.

5 Steps to Making Creamy Salad Dressing

1. Start with a base: Most creamy dressings contain mayo, sour cream, and/or yogurt, with a 50-50 ratio. For example, 2 tablespoons mayo + 2 tablespoons sour cream. For a lighter version, you can use all yogurt, but I like to use some mayo for the richness it adds. Whatever combo you choose, you will need about 2-3 tablespoons of total dressing per person.
2. Add an acid: Next add some lemon juice or vinegar which will brighten the dressing and give tanginess. I also like my dressings on the tangier side so I use a good amount of acid. Start with a teaspoon and add more as needed. For vinegars, I use red wine or apple cider though any type will do.
3. Use aromatics: garlic and onion have nice bold flavors. If using dry powders, start with a small dash and add more as needed. If using fresh, start with 1-2 fresh garlic cloves crushed and 1-2 tablespoons of fresh minced chives or green onions.
4. Sprinkle in herbs: Herbs are optional but they do add flavor and some color. Start with a few teaspoons of fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill. If using dried, start with a pinch or dash.
5. Add a splash of milk: Finally add some milk or a little water to thin out the dressing. Start with a few teaspoons and add only enough until you’ve reached desired consistency. If using the dressing in a sandwich or burger, I would skip this because it will be too runny.

What I like about this “basic” dressing is you cancustomize it depending on what kind of salad you’re having. You also don’t have to limit it to only salads!

Change up the Flavors:

• Indian:yogurt, lemon juice, mint and/or cilantro, toasted garam masala
• Italian:fresh garlic, dried oregano, parmesan
• Greek:yogurt, lemon juice, fresh garlic, olive oil, dried oregano
• Mexican: lime juice, jalapeño, cilantro, and/or hot sauce
• Southwestern: BBQ sauce and/or hot sauce

Enjoy With:

• Burgers or Sandwiches
• Chips or Fries
• Fresh Veggies
• Pasta Dishes
• Rice Bowls
• Wraps

Here are some Other salad recipes