This easy creamy Greek yogurt salad dressing is a healthier alternative to traditional dressings without sacrificing flavor or texture. Made with wholesome ingredients and ready in minutes, this tangy, rich dressing is perfect for drizzling over salads, grain bowls, roasted veggies, or even using as a dip. It’s light, zesty, and endlessly customizable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dressing is everything you want in a creamy dressing—thick, flavorful, and smooth—but with fewer calories and more protein. Greek yogurt brings a natural tang and richness, making it a nutritious base. It comes together in one bowl (or jar), requires no special equipment, and is made from pantry staples. Whether you’re meal prepping or just looking to upgrade your salads, this dressing is a go-to.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
- Olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic (minced or grated)
- Honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Water (to thin, as needed)
- Fresh herbs (optional: dill, parsley, or chives)
directions
- In a mixing bowl or mason jar, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, pepper, and honey (if using).
- Whisk or shake until smooth and fully combined.
- Add a splash of water to thin the dressing to your desired consistency.
- Stir in fresh herbs if using.
- Taste and adjust seasoning—add more lemon juice for tang, honey for sweetness, or salt for balance.
- Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 1 cup of dressing.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes
Servings: 8 (2-tablespoon servings)
Variations
- Ranch-style: Add onion powder, dried dill, and parsley for a yogurt-based ranch.
- Spicy kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.
- Caesar twist: Add anchovy paste, Worcestershire sauce, and Parmesan for a lighter Caesar.
- Vegan version: Use a plant-based yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey.
- Herb-packed: Add blended fresh herbs for a green goddess-inspired flavor.
storage/reheating
Store the dressing in a sealed jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake or stir before each use, as it may thicken slightly over time. Do not freeze or reheat—this dressing is meant to be served chilled.
FAQs
What kind of Greek yogurt should I use?
Plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt is best. Full-fat offers the richest texture, but low-fat or fat-free also work well.
Is this dressing thick?
Yes, it’s naturally thick and creamy. You can thin it with water or lemon juice to suit your needs.
Can I use regular yogurt instead?
Yes, but the consistency will be thinner. Strain it through a cheesecloth if you want it thicker.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative such as coconut or almond-based Greek-style yogurt.
Does this dressing taste like yogurt?
It has a slight tang from the yogurt, but the lemon, garlic, and mustard balance it out beautifully.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon?
Yes, lime juice adds a slightly different flavor but works well as a substitute.
What’s the best way to use this dressing?
It’s perfect for salads, grain bowls, as a dip for veggies, or even as a spread for wraps and sandwiches.
Can I add cheese to it?
Yes, crumbled feta or grated Parmesan adds a delicious savory note.
How do I make it sweeter?
Add a touch more honey or maple syrup to balance out the tanginess.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. It scales well—just store in a larger container and give it a shake before using.
Conclusion
This easy creamy Greek yogurt salad dressing is a game-changer for your meal routine—healthy, quick to make, and full of flavor. With its smooth texture and zesty, garlicky kick, it’s the perfect way to elevate salads and more. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep a jar in the fridge at all times.
Description
This creamy Greek yogurt salad dressing is light, tangy, and super easy to make in just 5 minutes. It’s packed with flavor, made with simple ingredients, and perfect for tossing on salads, using as a dip, or drizzling over grain bowls and wraps.
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In a small mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and vinegar until smooth.
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Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
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Add chopped herbs, if using, and mix well.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Store in a sealed jar or container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Shake or stir before each use.
Notes
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For a thinner consistency, add a splash of water or milk.
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Swap the lemon juice for lime for a tangy twist.
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Want a ranch-style flavor? Add onion powder, dill, and a bit of dried parsley.