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Creamy Basil Dressing

creamy basil dressing - featured image

A quick and easy homemade creamy basil dressing that elevates any salad with fresh basil, Greek yogurt, and a hint of lemon and honey for balanced tangy flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed, washed and stems removed
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced or grated
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 12 tablespoons water (optional, to thin dressing)

Instructions

  1. Rinse about 1 cup of fresh basil leaves and pat dry. Remove tough stems. Mince one small garlic clove finely or grate it.
  2. Add basil leaves, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon honey, and minced garlic to a blender or food processor.
  3. Pulse initially to chop the basil, then blend continuously for about 30–45 seconds until the mixture is creamy and uniform. Stop and scrape down the sides if needed.
  4. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Blend briefly again. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. If the dressing is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of cold water at a time and blend to loosen it to desired consistency.
  6. Transfer the dressing to a jar or container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
  7. Give the dressing a quick stir before serving. Drizzle over salads, veggies, or use as a dip.

Notes

Do not over-blend basil to avoid bitterness. Use fresh basil for best flavor. Chill dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavor. Store refrigerated up to 5 days. Stir well before use. For vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt with unsweetened coconut yogurt and mayonnaise with vegan mayo.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy basil dressing, homemade salad dressing, basil dressing, easy salad dressing, healthy dressing, Greek yogurt dressing