Greek Salad Dressing Recipe

Olive oil: Provides a rich and smooth base for the dressing.

Red wine vinegar: Adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.

Garlic: Minced to infuse the dressing with a robust aroma.

Dried oregano: Brings an earthy and slightly bitter taste, essential for Greek cuisine.

Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dressing.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spiciness and depth.

When preparing the garlic, make sure to mince it finely to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the dressing. This will help to infuse the olive oil and red wine vinegar with a more uniform garlic flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your Greek salad.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a mild flavor that works well in dressings.

• olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil is a neutral-tasting oil that can be used in place of olive oil, though it lacks the distinct flavor.

• red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a tangy flavor that can mimic the acidity of red wine vinegar.

• red wine vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar has a similar acidity and can be used as a direct substitute.

• garlic - Substitute with shallots: Minced shallots provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can replace garlic.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic, though it has a more concentrated flavor.

• dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme has a similar earthy flavor that can stand in for oregano.

• dried oregano - Substitute with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning contains oregano along with other herbs, providing a similar flavor profile.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in place of regular salt, offering a slightly different mineral content.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has larger grains and can be used as a substitute, though you may need to adjust the quantity.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar spiciness but a slightly different flavor, making it a good substitute.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds heat and a different flavor profile, so use sparingly.

• Pour the freshly prepared Greek salad dressing into a clean, airtight container. Glass jars or bottles with tight-fitting lids work best to maintain freshness and prevent any unwanted flavors from seeping in.

• Label the container with the date of preparation. This helps you keep track of its freshness and ensures you use it within the recommended time frame.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The cool temperature will help preserve the flavors and prevent the olive oil from going rancid.

• Before using, give the dressing a good shake or stir. The ingredients may separate over time, especially the olive oil and red wine vinegar.

• If you notice any changes in smell, color, or texture, discard the dressing. Freshness is key to maintaining the vibrant flavors of your Greek salad.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the dressing in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. This allows you to thaw only the amount you need, reducing waste.

• When ready to use, thaw the desired number of cubes in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Give it a good stir to recombine any separated ingredients.

• Avoid freezing the dressing in large batches, as this can make it difficult to thaw evenly and may affect the texture and flavor.

• Gently bring the Greek salad dressing to room temperature by leaving it out on the counter for about 30 minutes. This helps the olive oil to liquefy if it has solidified in the refrigerator.
• If you're in a hurry, place the container of dressing in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes. This will gently warm it without altering the flavor.
• Avoid using a microwave to reheat the dressing, as it can cause the olive oil to break down and change the taste.
• Once the dressing is at the desired temperature, give it a good shake or whisk to re-emulsify the ingredients before using it on your Greek salad.

• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the ingredients smoothly and evenly.

• Whisk: A whisk helps to blend the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper thoroughly.

• Garlic press: A garlic press is useful for mincing the garlic quickly and efficiently.

• Measuring cups: Measuring cups ensure that you use the correct amounts of olive oil and red wine vinegar.

• Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are necessary for accurately measuring the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.

• Airtight container: An airtight container is needed for storing the dressing in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to one week.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Mince the garlic and measure out the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use a mason jar: Combine all ingredients in a mason jar, seal it, and shake vigorously. This saves time on cleanup and ensures thorough mixing.

Double the recipe: Make a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator. This way, you have Greek salad dressing ready for multiple meals throughout the week.

Pre-make salad components: Chop your salad vegetables and store them in airtight containers. This makes assembling the salad quick and easy.