French Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

French Dressing is a classic, creamy, and tangy salad dressing that brings a sweet and zesty flavor to your greens. With its vibrant orange hue and smooth texture, it’s perfect for drizzling over crisp lettuce, topping sandwiches, or using as a dip. Homemade French Dressing is quick to whip up with pantry staples and delivers bold flavor without any artificial additives.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

ketchupmayonnaisewhite vinegarvegetable oilgranulated sugarsaltpaprikaonion powdergarlic powderblack pepper

directions

In a mixing bowl, whisk together ketchup, mayonnaise, and white vinegar until smooth.

Slowly drizzle in the vegetable oil while whisking continuously to create an emulsion.

Add sugar, salt, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper.

Whisk until fully combined and creamy.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Transfer to a jar or bottle and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of dressing.Preparation time: 5 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a slightly fruity tang.

Add a touch of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Blend in a small amount of Dijon mustard for extra depth and creaminess.

Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.

Make it vegan by using vegan mayo.

storage/reheating

Store French Dressing in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.Shake or stir before each use as natural separation may occur.Do not freeze, as the texture will be affected.

FAQs

Is French Dressing the same as Catalina?

No, Catalina dressing is typically thinner, less creamy, and more tomato-forward.

Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?

Yes, but it will have a more pronounced flavor—choose light olive oil for a milder taste.

Is this dressing gluten-free?

Yes, if all ingredients (especially ketchup) are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this dressing without mayonnaise?

You can substitute with plain Greek yogurt or use all oil for a vinaigrette-style version.

Why is French Dressing orange?

The color comes from the ketchup and paprika combined with the creamy base.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, adjust to taste or use a sugar substitute.

Is French Dressing good for marinating?

Yes, it works well as a marinade for chicken or pork thanks to its acidity and flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just scale all ingredients evenly.

What salads go best with French Dressing?

It pairs especially well with iceberg or romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and hard-boiled eggs.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it’s even better after a few hours in the fridge.

Conclusion

French Dressing is a deliciously tangy and creamy condiment that adds vibrant flavor to a wide range of dishes. Quick to prepare and versatile in use, it’s a go-to dressing that elevates simple salads or serves as a flavorful dip and spread. Once you try making it at home, you may never go back to the store-bought version.

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