Description
Discover a collection of healthier creamy yogurt salad dressings that blend tangy yogurt with fresh herbs, citrus, and flavorful spices. These dressings are lighter alternatives to traditional creamy dressings, perfect for enhancing your salads with rich taste and a nutritious boost.
Ingredients
Scale
Basic Creamy Yogurt Dressing
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 1/2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
Herb Yogurt Dressing
- 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 tsp each dried dill, parsley, chives, garlic powder, black pepper
- 1/2 tsp each onion powder, mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp white sugar
- 1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice
Mustard Yogurt Dressing
- 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp milk
- 2 tbsp wholegrain mustard
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 2 tsp white sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Honey Mustard Yogurt Dressing
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 1/2 tbsp cider vinegar
- 1/4 tsp each garlic powder, salt, and pepper
Classic Caesar-style Yogurt Dressing
- 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek)
- 1/2 garlic clove, minced
- 2 anchovy fillets or 3/4 tsp anchovy paste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp white sugar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 – 4 tbsp milk (adjust consistency)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, add the plain yogurt followed by the olive oil, lemon juice, and all the seasoning ingredients specific to the dressing variation you are preparing. Ensure garlic, herbs, and spices are well measured and fresh for optimal flavor.
- Whisk Until Smooth: Using a whisk or fork, blend all ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and fully emulsified. This creates a creamy texture without added heaviness.
- Adjust Seasonings and Consistency: Taste the dressing and adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness as needed. For too thick dressings, thin with a small amount of milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the dressing and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and intensify. This step enhances the complexity and creaminess of the dressing.
- Serve: Drizzle over fresh salads, use as a dip, or a spread. The dressings pair wonderfully with greens, grilled vegetables, and protein dishes, bringing a healthy and flavorful boost.
Notes
- For best results, use Greek yogurt for a creamier texture and higher protein content.
- Adjust sugar quantities to taste, especially if you prefer less sweetness.
- The classic Caesar-style yogurt dressing uses anchovies for authentic flavor but can be omitted for a milder taste.
- Fresh herbs offer the best flavor; dried herbs are good substitutes if fresh are unavailable.
- These dressings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
