Homemade French Dressing

Prep: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Homemade French dressing offers a tangy, sweet flavor profile with hints of onion, garlic, and paprika, making it perfect for salads, marinades, or dipping. Its rich, balanced taste suits those seeking an inexpensive, versatile dressing that can elevate any meal with fresh, homemade goodness.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2/3 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup vinegar
  • 1 cup oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped fine
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth and well mixed.
  3. Pour into a jar or bottle and refrigerate.
  4. Keep refrigerated and use as desired.

Tips & Substitutions

For a sweeter dressing, consider adding more sugar to taste, or use honey as a natural sweetener. If you prefer a thicker consistency, try adding a few tablespoons of mayonnaise. For a spicy kick, incorporate a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. This dressing can also be customized with herbs such as dill or parsley for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This dressing pairs beautifully with fresh salads, especially those featuring crisp greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers. It can also enhance the flavor of grilled vegetables or serve as a dipping sauce for appetizers like Cocktail Wieners Or Smoked Sausage. Consider drizzling it over a baked potato for a tasty twist.

Storage & Reheating

Store your homemade French dressing in an airtight jar or bottle in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks. Shake well before each use, as the ingredients may separate over time. Avoid freezing this dressing, as the texture may change upon thawing.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Homemade French Dressing contains roughly 694 calories, with 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1988mg per serving (86% of the Daily Value).

694 kcal 35% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.5g 5% DV
Total Fat 64g 82% DV
Carbs 29.3g 11% DV
Fiber 2.8g 10% DV
Sugar 9.7g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1987.9mg 86% DV
Potassium 344.2mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 62.6mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 12.6mg 14% DV
Calcium 47.1mg 4% DV
Iron 1.8mg 10% DV

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dressing vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly as it does not contain any animal products. Just ensure that the Worcestershire sauce you use is vegan, as some brands may include anchovies.

How long does this dressing last in the fridge?

Homemade French dressing can last up to two weeks when stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Always check for any off smells or changes in appearance before using.

Can I use fresh herbs in this dressing?

Absolutely! Adding fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can enhance the flavor profile of your French dressing. Just chop them finely and mix them in with the other ingredients before blending.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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