Mediterranean Zesty Greek Salad Dressing
Elevate your salads with this vibrant Mediterranean Zesty Greek Salad Dressing! This luscious blend features a balanced medley of Dijon mustard, zesty lemon juice, and fresh oregano, combined with a creamy base from a pasteurized egg. You’ll love the robust flavors enhanced by a hint of Worcestershire sauce and the subtle warmth of garlic. Perfectly crafted to complement any salad, this dressing promises a delightful tang that’s refreshing and wholesome. Ideal for drizzling over crisp greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, it’s also a fantastic marinade for grilled vegetables or meats. Enjoy the essence of the Mediterranean with each delicious mouthful!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Dijon mustard
1 (teaspoon)
Salt
1/2 (teaspoon)
Pasteurized egg
1 (large)
Light olive oil
1 1/4 (cups)
White vinegar
1 (tablespoon)
Lemon juice
2 (tablespoons)
Garlic
3 (cloves, finely minced or crushed)
Fresh oregano
1 (tablespoon, finely chopped)
Worcestershire sauce
1 (teaspoon)
Freshly ground pepper
1/8 (teaspoon (to taste))
Instructions
1
In a food processor or blender, combine the Dijon mustard, salt, pasteurized egg, and white vinegar. Blend until smooth and creamy.
2
With the blender or processor running, slowly drizzle in the light olive oil. This gradual mixing will help emulsify the dressing, creating a rich and velvety texture.
3
Once the oil is fully incorporated, add the fresh lemon juice and pulse to combine.
4
Next, add the finely minced garlic, chopped oregano, Worcestershire sauce, and freshly ground pepper. Blend until all ingredients are well mixed and the dressing is smooth.
5
Transfer the dressing to a clean, airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
6
Shake well before each use, as the oil may separate while stored.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Zesty Greek Salad Dressing?
It is a vibrant and creamy dressing featuring Dijon mustard, lemon juice, fresh oregano, and a pasteurized egg base for a rich texture.
Is this Greek salad dressing vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat products, though it does include an egg.
Why does the recipe call for a pasteurized egg?
The pasteurized egg acts as an emulsifier to create a creamy, velvety texture while ensuring the dressing is safe to consume without cooking.
Can I use extra virgin olive oil instead of light olive oil?
Yes, but extra virgin olive oil has a stronger, more bitter flavor. Light olive oil is used here for a more neutral, balanced taste.
How long can I store this homemade dressing?
Because it contains a pasteurized egg, it is best kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
What can I use if I don't have white vinegar?
Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar are excellent substitutes that maintain the necessary acidity.
Can I use dried oregano instead of fresh?
Yes, use 1 teaspoon of dried oregano as a substitute for the 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano called for in the recipe.
Why do I need to drizzle the oil in slowly?
Slowly adding the oil while the processor is running is crucial for emulsification, which prevents the oil and vinegar from separating.
Is this dressing gluten-free?
It depends on your Worcestershire sauce. Some brands contain barley malt vinegar, so check the label if you need a gluten-free option.
Can I make this dressing without a food processor?
Yes, you can use a blender or whisk it vigorously by hand, though a processor or blender provides the smoothest results.
Is this dressing dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe does not contain any milk, cream, or cheese products.
Can I use this dressing as a marinade?
Absolutely! It works perfectly as a marinade for grilled chicken, lamb, or Mediterranean-style vegetables.
How many garlic cloves are in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 cloves of garlic, finely minced or crushed, to provide a robust Mediterranean flavor.
What salads pair well with this dressing?
It is ideal for traditional Greek salads with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta, as well as crisp green salads.
Why should I let the dressing sit for 30 minutes?
Refrigerating the dressing for at least 30 minutes allows the garlic and oregano flavors to fully meld and infuse into the oil.
Is this dressing keto-friendly?
Yes, the ingredients are low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, making it suitable for a ketogenic diet.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor and zest, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
What if my dressing separates in the fridge?
Natural separation may occur; simply shake the container well before each use to recombine the ingredients.
Can I add honey to this recipe?
If you prefer a sweeter dressing, you can add 1 to 2 teaspoons of honey or agave nectar to balance the acidity.
How much dressing does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 1.5 cups of dressing.
What is the purpose of the Dijon mustard?
Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and also helps stabilize the emulsion of the oil and vinegar.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon?
Lime juice will change the flavor profile significantly, but it can be used if you prefer a different citrus note.
Is the garlic raw in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe uses raw minced garlic to provide a sharp, pungent kick characteristic of Greek cuisine.
Can I freeze this dressing?
Freezing is not recommended as it will likely break the emulsion and change the texture once thawed.
Does this dressing contain soy?
Check your Worcestershire sauce label, as some brands include soy-based ingredients.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
You can use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, though fresh garlic provides a much more vibrant and authentic taste.
What if the dressing is too thick?
If the dressing is too thick for your preference, you can thin it out by whisking in a teaspoon of water at a time.
Is this recipe nut-free?
Yes, this dressing contains no nuts or nut-derived ingredients.
Can I use this on pasta salad?
Yes, it is an excellent choice for cold pasta salads, especially those with feta, olives, and bell peppers.
How do I ensure the best flavor?
Using high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs will ensure the most delicious and authentic Mediterranean flavor.