Zesty Mediterranean Salad Dressing
This Zesty Mediterranean Salad Dressing is a vibrant and flavorful addition to any meal. Combining the robust flavors of fresh garlic, tangy lemon juice, and aromatic herbs, this dressing brings a refreshing twist that elevates a classic Greek salad or drizzles beautifully over pasta dishes. Not only does it serve as a delicious dressing, but it also doubles as a mouthwatering marinade for meats and grilled vegetables. Enjoy its tart, olive oil-rich profile and transform your everyday salads into gourmet experiences!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh garlic cloves
2 (minced then crushed)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (optional)
Dijon mustard
1 1/2 teaspoons (preferably Grey Poupon)
extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup
fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons (not bottled)
sugar
1/2 teaspoon
red wine vinegar
5 tablespoons
basil leaves
1/2 teaspoon (optional)
oregano leaves
1/4 teaspoon (optional)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, combine the minced garlic, salt (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, sugar, red wine vinegar, basil, and oregano.
2
Whisk the ingredients vigorously until well blended.
3
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while continuing to whisk until the mixture is emulsified and creamy.
4
For an even creamier texture, you can add all the ingredients (except for the olive oil) into a blender or food processor, and pulse several times to mix. With the blender running on high, gradually pour in the olive oil until the desired creaminess is achieved.
5
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Mediterranean Salad Dressing?
It is a vibrant and flavorful dressing made with fresh garlic, tangy lemon juice, aromatic herbs, and extra virgin olive oil.
What are the primary uses for this dressing?
It serves as a delicious dressing for Greek salads and pasta dishes, and also doubles as a marinade for meats and grilled vegetables.
What are the key ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients include fresh garlic, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, sugar, red wine vinegar, basil, and oregano.
Is fresh garlic required?
Yes, the recipe calls for two fresh garlic cloves that should be minced and then crushed for the best flavor profile.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
The recipe specifically notes to use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled to maintain the zesty quality.
What brand of mustard is recommended?
Grey Poupon Dijon mustard is the preferred choice for this Mediterranean dressing.
How do I prepare the dressing in a bowl?
Combine all ingredients except the oil in a medium bowl, whisk vigorously, and then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk.
Can I use a blender to make this dressing?
Yes, for a creamier texture, you can pulse all ingredients except the olive oil in a blender, then gradually pour in the oil while running on high.
What is the benefit of using a food processor?
Using a food processor or blender helps emulsify the oil more effectively, resulting in a desired creaminess.
How long should the dressing sit before serving?
It is recommended to refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld properly.
Is there sugar in this Mediterranean dressing?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/2 teaspoon of sugar to help balance the acidity of the vinegar and lemon.
Are the herbs optional?
Both the basil leaves and oregano leaves are listed as optional ingredients in this recipe.
What type of vinegar is used?
The recipe calls for 5 tablespoons of red wine vinegar.
Is the salt mandatory?
No, the 1/4 teaspoon of salt is optional based on your personal taste and dietary needs.
What type of olive oil should I use?
Extra virgin olive oil is required to achieve the rich and authentic Mediterranean profile.
Is this dressing healthy?
Yes, it is described as a healthy dressing option that utilizes fresh ingredients and heart-healthy fats.
Can I use this dressing as a marinade?
Absolutely, it works as a mouthwatering marinade for various meats and grilled vegetables.
What flavor profile does this dressing have?
It has a tart, olive oil-rich profile with robust notes of garlic and aromatic herbs.
How many ingredients are in the Zesty Mediterranean Salad Dressing?
There are 9 ingredients total in this recipe.
How should I prepare the garlic?
The garlic should be minced first and then crushed to release its full aromatic potential.
What kind of salad does this pair best with?
It is specifically designed to elevate a classic Greek salad.
Is this dressing dairy-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients provided, this recipe does not contain any dairy products.
How do I ensure the dressing is emulsified?
By slowly drizzling in the olive oil while whisking vigorously, you create a creamy, emulsified mixture.
Can I use this on pasta?
Yes, it is excellent when drizzled over various pasta dishes.
Is this dressing versatile?
Yes, it is tagged as a versatile dressing suitable for salads, pastas, and as a marinade.
What is the serving size for this dressing?
The specific serving size is not provided, but the recipe uses 1/2 cup of olive oil and 5 tablespoons of vinegar as a base.
Is the texture thin or thick?
The texture is creamy and emulsified, especially if prepared using a blender or food processor.
Does this dressing contain cholesterol?
The recipe data indicates that it does not contain cholesterol.
Can I use this for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors develop.
What makes this dressing Mediterranean?
The combination of olive oil, lemon, garlic, red wine vinegar, and oregano are classic staples of Mediterranean cuisine.