Easy Creamy Greek Yogurt Salad Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Greek Yogurt Salad Dressing is a healthier alternative to traditional creamy dressings, thanks to the use of Greek yogurt, which adds richness without the extra calories from mayonnaise or sour cream. The bright acidity from the lemon juice and white wine vinegar, combined with the subtle sweetness of maple syrup, gives it a perfectly balanced flavor. The feta cheese and fresh dill add extra depth and freshness, making it a versatile dressing that works wonderfully on greens, vegetables, or as a dip for veggies and bread.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice from one lemon
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt
• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup fresh chopped dill or ½ teaspoon dried dill
• ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Combine the liquids: In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, white wine vinegar, and maple syrup until well combined.
2. Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic to the liquid mixture.
3. Add Greek yogurt and olive oil: Add the Greek yogurt to the mixture and whisk until smooth. Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk, ensuring the dressing becomes creamy and emulsified.
4. Season: Stir in the salt, black pepper, and chopped dill (or dried dill).
5. Add the feta: Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the dressing.
6. Taste and adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more maple syrup for sweetness, more lemon juice for acidity, or additional salt and pepper if desired.
7. Serve: Drizzle the dressing over your favorite salad or use it as a dip for veggies or pita bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 1 cup of dressing
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Version: For a vegan version, replace the Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt (such as coconut yogurt or almond milk yogurt) and skip the feta cheese or use a vegan feta alternative.
• Herb Variations: You can substitute the fresh dill with other fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Add Spices: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dressing a kick.
• Add Lemon Zest: For extra citrus flavor, add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the dressing for a more vibrant, fresh taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors will continue to develop and improve as it sits.
• Reheating: This dressing is best served cold and doesn’t require reheating. Simply remove it from the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute the white wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or even balsamic vinegar for a different flavor.

2. Can I make this dressing without feta cheese?

Yes, you can skip the feta cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version or don’t like the taste of feta. The dressing will still be creamy and flavorful.

3. Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

Yes, you can replace maple syrup with honey, agave, or any other sweetener of your choice. If you’re using a liquid sweetener, the consistency may change slightly.

4. Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, it tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together.

5. How thick is this dressing?

This dressing is creamy but can be adjusted for thickness by adding more or less olive oil. If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a splash of water or extra lemon juice.

6. Can I use low-fat Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can use low-fat Greek yogurt, but keep in mind that the dressing will be a little less creamy. Full-fat Greek yogurt gives it a richer texture.

7. How can I make this dressing spicier?

Add some hot sauce, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to give it a bit of heat.

8. What can I use this dressing on?

This dressing is perfect for any salad, especially Greek salads, spinach salads, or roasted vegetables. You can also use it as a dip for veggies, pita bread, or even as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.

9. Can I freeze this dressing?

Freezing is not recommended for this dressing, as the texture may change once it’s thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within 4-5 days of making it.

10. Can I make this dressing without garlic?

Yes, you can skip the garlic if you prefer a milder flavor or have dietary restrictions. The dressing will still taste great without it.

Conclusion

This Easy Creamy Greek Yogurt Salad Dressing is a flavorful and healthier alternative to store-bought dressings. The Greek yogurt gives it a creamy texture, while the lemon juice, vinegar, and maple syrup provide a perfectly balanced flavor. The feta and dill elevate the dressing, making it a standout topping for any salad or dish. Easy to make, customizable, and delicious, this dressing will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

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