Greek Salad Dressing Recipe

This Greek Salad Dressing Recipe is an effortless and delicious way to elevate your meals! With its tangy and zesty profile, this homemade dressing comes together in just five minutes. Perfect for drizzling over a classic Greek salad or using as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, or vegetables, it brings authentic Mediterranean flavor to any dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply wanting to add some flair to your weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

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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: Store or Serve
• How to Serve Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
• Drizzle Over Fresh Salads
• Use as a Marinade
• Toss with Roasted Vegetables
• Add to Grain Bowls
• Enhance Pasta Dishes
• Serve with Grilled Meats
• 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?
• Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?
• How do I customize my Greek Salad Dressing?
• How long does homemade Greek salad dressing last?
• What dishes pair well with Greek Salad Dressing?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dressing comes together in just 5 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Use: Not only great on salads, but it also serves as a flavorful marinade for meats and veggies.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with bright lemon juice, rich olive oil, and fresh garlic for a vibrant taste.
• Healthy Option: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dressing is a healthier alternative to store-bought options.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the seasoning and add feta cheese according to your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making this delightful dressing, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pint jar with a tight-fitting lid
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Pint jar with a tight-fitting lid: Ideal for shaking the dressing thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate measurements of liquids for perfect flavor balance.
• Knife: Essential for mincing garlic and preparing other fresh ingredients.

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

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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:
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 until the dressing is fully emulsified. This should take about 20 seconds of vigorous shaking.

Step 3: Add Feta (Optional)

If you are using feta cheese:
1. Add ¼ cup crumbled feta into the jar.
2. Shake again gently to distribute evenly throughout the dressing.

Step 4: Season to Taste

Taste the dressing and season with salt (about ½ teaspoon) and freshly cracked black pepper (about ¼ teaspoon) according to your preference.

Step 5: Store or Serve

You can use the dressing immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. Remember that after refrigeration, the olive oil may solidify slightly; let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving or microwave it briefly if needed. Shake well before each use!

How to Serve Greek Salad Dressing Recipe

This homemade Greek salad dressing recipe is versatile and can elevate many dishes beyond a classic Greek salad. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions that highlight its zesty flavors.

Drizzle Over Fresh Salads

• A refreshing mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives pairs perfectly with this dressing.

Use as a Marinade

• Marinate chicken, shrimp, or tofu for at least 30 minutes before grilling to infuse it with Mediterranean flavors.

Toss with Roasted Vegetables

• Drizzle over roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for an extra layer of taste.

Add to Grain Bowls

• Combine cooked quinoa or farro with this dressing for a flavorful grain bowl base.

Enhance Pasta Dishes

• Mix into pasta salads for a bright and tangy finish that’s sure to impress.

Serve with Grilled Meats

• Perfectly complements grilled lamb or beef kebabs, balancing the richness of the meat.

How to Perfect Greek Salad Dressing Recipe

Creating the perfect Greek salad dressing is simple with a few tricks. Follow these tips for an authentic taste experience.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic make all the difference in flavor compared to bottled versions.
• Balance acidity: Adjust the red wine vinegar according to your taste preference; more will add tanginess while less will create a smoother profile.
• Experiment with herbs: While oregano is classic, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a unique twist.
• Emulsify well: Shake the jar vigorously until the oil and vinegar blend completely; this prevents separation.
• Let it sit: Allowing the dressing to rest for about 30 minutes enhances the flavor profile as the ingredients meld together.

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Best Side Dishes for Greek Salad Dressing Recipe

This delightful Greek salad dressing pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Pita Bread: Warm pita bread brushed with olive oil makes a perfect dipper for this flavorful dressing.
2. Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy cucumber yogurt sauce complements grilled dishes beautifully alongside your dressing.
3. Feta Cheese Crumbles: Sprinkle crumbled feta on any dish for added creaminess that works well with the vinaigrette.
4. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These flavorful bites are enhanced by the zesty notes of your homemade dressing.
5. Greek-Style Couscous: A light couscous salad mixed with vegetables goes well dressed in this vinaigrette.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes drizzled with this dressing add a Mediterranean flair to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Greek salad dressing, there are a few common errors that can impact the flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using dried herbs or old garlic can dull the flavor. Always opt for fresh ingredients when possible for a vibrant taste.
• Overdoing the Oil: Adding too much olive oil can make the dressing too heavy. Stick to the recommended amount to keep it balanced and flavorful.
• Neglecting to Taste: Forgetting to taste your dressing before serving can lead to unseasoned results. Always sample and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
• Not Emulsifying Properly: Failing to mix the ingredients thoroughly can cause separation. Shake well until fully combined for a smooth consistency.
• Forgetting Refrigeration Guidelines: Leaving the dressing out too long can spoil it. Store it properly in the fridge and consume within three weeks.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Greek salad dressing in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Greek Salad Dressing Recipe

• You can freeze this dressing if you want to extend its life.
• Use ice cube trays or silicone molds for easy portioning.
• It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Greek Salad Dressing Recipe

• Oven: Preheat at a low temperature and place in an oven-safe dish until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, about 10-15 seconds at a time, stirring between intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid boiling.

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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, and oregano. This combination creates a zesty vinaigrette perfect for salads.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?

Yes! Fresh herbs can enhance flavors even more than dried ones. Just remember that you’ll need more fresh herbs since they are less potent.

How do I customize my Greek Salad Dressing?

You can add ingredients like honey for sweetness or different spices based on your preference. Experiment with flavors that suit your taste!

How long does homemade Greek salad dressing last?

Your homemade Greek salad dressing can last up to three weeks in the refrigerator when stored correctly in an airtight container.

What dishes pair well with Greek Salad Dressing?

This versatile dressing is not only great on salads but also works as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, or grilled vegetables.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Salad Dressing Recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Its versatility allows you to use it on various dishes beyond salads. Don’t hesitate to customize it according to your taste preferences—your culinary creativity is the limit!