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Easy Garlic Dressing Recipe

4.8 from 144 reviews

This Easy Garlic Dressing is a creamy, tangy, and flavorful dressing perfect for salads, drizzling over roasted vegetables, or as a dip. Made from fresh garlic, zesty lemon, red wine vinegar, and Parmesan cheese, this homemade dressing offers a rich and savory profile with simple ingredients blended into a smooth, vibrant sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Garlic Paste

  • 6 fat cloves garlic
  • Coarse salt (for smashing garlic)

Dressing Base

  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 lemon (juice only)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Flavor Enhancers

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the garlic paste: Mince the garlic cloves finely and sprinkle with a pinch of coarse salt. Using the back of your knife, press and drag it repeatedly over the garlic until it forms a smooth, soft paste. This technique helps mellow the garlic’s sharpness and enhances its flavor in the dressing.
  2. Combine wet ingredients: Transfer the garlic paste to a small mixing bowl. Add the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined and slightly emulsified, creating a creamy base.
  3. Add olive oil and seasonings: Slowly pour in the olive oil while whisking continuously to incorporate it fully, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture. Then, add the dried oregano and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking again until everything is evenly blended.
  4. Adjust seasoning and flavor balance: Taste the dressing and season with salt and fresh cracked pepper according to your preference. If the dressing tastes too tangy, add a little more olive oil to mellow it out; if it needs more brightness, add a splash more lemon juice or red wine vinegar. Whisk again to combine any adjustments.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor and minimal bitterness.
  • The coarse salt helps break down the garlic to release natural oils and flavor when making the paste.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan adds a savory umami depth to the dressing.
  • This dressing keeps well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
  • Use as a salad dressing, a dip for vegetables, or a sauce for grilled meats and roasted vegetables.

Keywords: garlic dressing, easy garlic sauce, homemade salad dressing, creamy garlic dressing, Mediterranean dressing