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French Dressing Recipe

Easy Homemade French Dressing Recipe to Elevate Your Salads

This Easy Homemade French Dressing Recipe elevates your salads with a creamy, tangy vinaigrette that is quick to prepare.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: French
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 0.25 cups finely grated yellow onion Adds freshness and depth; shallots make a perfect milder substitution.
  • 1 clove finely grated garlic Infuses pungency and aroma; you can use ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder if fresh isn’t on hand.
  • 0.75 cups ketchup Provides sweetness and vibrant color; homemade or sugar-free options work for a healthier twist.
  • 0.5 cups apple cider vinegar Introduces a tangy acidity; white wine vinegar or lemon juice can also be used.
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce Adds a spicy kick; adjust according to your heat preference, or omit entirely for a milder taste.
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce Enhances the umami flavor; soy sauce is a great vegetarian alternative.
  • 3 tablespoons sugar Sweetens the dressing; swap for honey, maple syrup, or agave as desired.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Contributes warmth and color; try smoked paprika for a unique flavor twist.
  • 1 cups neutral flavored oil Creates the dressing’s body; grapeseed, canola, or avocado oil are excellent choices.
  • sea salt Balances the flavors beautifully.
  • black pepper Balances the flavors beautifully.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • Grater

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade French Dressing
  1. Begin by finely grating the peeled yellow onion and garlic clove into a mixing bowl. This step should take about 2 minutes.
  2. Next, add the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and paprika to the bowl with the grated onion and garlic. Stir these ingredients together with a whisk until fully combined.
  3. While continuously whisking, slowly drizzle in the cup of neutral flavored oil, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. This creates an emulsified dressing that is smooth and glossy.
  4. Once emulsified, taste your homemade French dressing and adjust with sea salt and pepper to your preference.
  5. Drizzle it over fresh salads, or use it as a flavorful marinade. Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate if making ahead.

Nutrition

Serving: 2tablespoonsCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 7gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 150mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 5g

Notes

Let the flavors meld beautifully by making this dressing one to three days in advance. Shake well before each use to re-emulsify.

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