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Top view of a vibrant Mediterranean salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese, garnished with fresh herbs and drizzled with olive oil, placed on a rustic wooden background.

Salad Dressing for Mediterranean Salad

A simple and flavorful Mediterranean salad dressing made with high-quality olive oil, tangy vinegar, and aromatic herbs. This dressing enhances any salad, grain bowl, or roasted vegetable dish while staying true to the Mediterranean diet’s healthy and wholesome principles.
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Prep Time 7 minutes
Total Time 7 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine Mediterranean

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil cold-pressed for best flavor
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar or balsamic/apple cider vinegar for variations
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice for brightness
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard for slight tang and emulsification
  • 1 clove garlic minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)

Seasonings & Herbs:

  • ½ tsp dried oregano or 1 tbsp fresh oregano, finely chopped
  • ½ tsp dried basil or 1 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
  • ¼ tsp salt or to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper or to taste
  • ½ tsp honey or maple syrup optional, for slight sweetness

Instructions
 

Combine Ingredients:

  • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until well combined.

Add Seasonings & Herbs:

  • Stir in minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Add honey or maple syrup if you prefer a touch of sweetness.

Whisk or Shake:

  • If using a jar, secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing is emulsified. If using a bowl, whisk continuously until well blended.

Taste & Adjust:

  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more lemon juice for brightness, more vinegar for tang, or more olive oil for a milder taste.

Serve or Store:

  • Use immediately over your favorite Mediterranean salad, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Shake well before each use.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

  • Calories: 90
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Vitamin C: 6% DV
  • Iron: 2% DV

Tips & Variations:

  • ✅ Make It Creamy: Add 1 tbsp Greek yogurt for a creamy Mediterranean dressing.
  • ✅ Add a Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
  • ✅ Try Different Vinegars: Swap red wine vinegar for balsamic, white wine, or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
  • ✅ Herb Infused: Mix in fresh mint or parsley for a more aromatic dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  • What’s the best vinegar for Mediterranean salad dressings?
  • Red wine vinegar is the most common, but balsamic and apple cider vinegar are also great options depending on your preference.
  • Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
  • Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Shake or whisk before use.
  • Is balsamic vinaigrette Mediterranean?
  • Yes! It aligns with Mediterranean diet principles when made with natural ingredients and without added sugars.
  • Can I use this as a marinade?
  • Absolutely! This dressing works well as a marinade for chicken, fish, tofu, or vegetables.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair with: Greek salad, tabbouleh, quinoa bowls, or roasted vegetables.
  • Drizzle on: Pita wraps, hummus bowls, or Mediterranean grain salads.
  • Use as: A marinade for grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Keyword Salad Dressing for Mediterranean Salad