Taste of the mediterranean: a step-by-step guide to making your own greek salad dressing

Why Make Your Own Greek Salad Dressing?

Store-bought Greek salad dressings often contain unnecessary additives, preservatives, and unhealthy fats. By making your own, you can control the ingredients, ensuring a fresh, flavorful, and healthy dressing that complements your salad perfectly.

Ingredients for a Classic Greek Salad Dressing

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Whisk together the liquids: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar or lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.

2. Add the spices: Stir in the oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.

3. Mix in the feta (optional): If desired, crumble the feta cheese and add it to the dressing.

4. Taste and adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more oregano for a more herbaceous flavor, more red wine vinegar or lemon juice for a tangier taste, or more salt and pepper for a bolder kick.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

• Mediterranean Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh mint to the dressing.

• Citrusy Delight: Replace the red wine vinegar with orange juice or grapefruit juice for a bright and refreshing flavor.

• Creamy Dream: Add 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt to the dressing for a creamy and tangy twist.

• Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Greek Salad: Drizzle the dressing over a salad made with romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and feta cheese.

• Grilled Meats: Brush the dressing over grilled chicken, fish, or steak before cooking to add flavor and moisture.

• Pasta Salad: Use the dressing as a marinade for pasta salad with vegetables, olives, and feta cheese.

• As a Dip: Serve the dressing as a dip for pita bread, vegetable crudités, or chips.

Tips for the Perfect Dressing

• Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of the ingredients will greatly affect the flavor of the dressing. Use extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, and real feta cheese.

• Let the flavors mingle: Allow the dressing to sit for at least 30 minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld.

• Store properly: Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

FAQ

Q: Can I use white wine vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?
A: Yes, you can substitute white wine vinegar for red wine vinegar, but the flavor will be slightly milder.

Q: What if I don’t have dried oregano?
A: You can use 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano leaves instead.

Q: How can I make a vegan Greek salad dressing?
A: Omit the feta cheese and replace the honey with maple syrup.