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Creamy Healthy Pasta Salad Dressing Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 37 reviews
  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad Dressing
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

A creamy and healthy pasta salad dressing featuring Greek yogurt, olive oil, and a blend of tangy and sweet flavors. This versatile dressing is easy to prepare, perfect for enhancing your pasta salads with a nutritious and delicious touch.


Ingredients

Scale

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons water (to thin, as needed)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or parsley


Instructions

  1. Combine Base Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy to create the dressing base.
  2. Add Sweetener: Stir in the maple syrup or honey to provide a subtle sweetness that balances the tangy flavors.
  3. Incorporate Aromatics and Seasoning: Add minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper; mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
  4. Adjust Consistency: Gradually whisk in water, a little at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired pourable consistency.
  5. Add Fresh Herbs (Optional): Fold in chopped fresh dill or parsley for an extra layer of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
  6. Taste and Adjust: Sample the dressing and modify seasoning as needed to suit your taste preferences.
  7. Serve or Store: Pour the dressing over cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly, or transfer to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Notes

  • You can substitute dairy-free yogurt to make this dressing vegan and dairy-free.
  • If you prefer a thinner dressing, feel free to add additional water, one teaspoon at a time.
  • Fresh dill or parsley are optional but add a nice herbal freshness.
  • Best served chilled over pasta salads, but can also be used as a dip or spread.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.