Easy Greek salad dressing. Full recipe at the link in bio.
Easy Greek salad dressing. Full recipe at the link in bio. is a easy Greek recipe that serves 4. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by House of G&K Recipes on YouTube.
Prep: 9 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 14 min
Cost: $1.04 total, $0.26 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cloves Garlic (peeled, then pressed or minced)
- 1 large Lemon (juiced (about 3 tbsp), zest optional)
- 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (use a good quality oil for flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (preferably sea salt)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (Greek oregano preferred)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (helps emulsify the dressing)
Instructions
Peel the Garlic
Remove the skins from two garlic cloves. If you have a garlic press, keep the cloves whole for pressing later.
Time: PT1M
Roll the Lemon
Place the lemon on a cutting board and roll it firmly with the palm of your hand to loosen the juices.
Time: PT30S
Juice the Lemon
Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a measuring cup, aiming for about 3 tablespoons.
Time: PT1M
Measure Olive Oil
Add 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil to the same measuring cup containing the lemon juice.
Time: PT1M
Add Seasonings
Stir in 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dried oregano, and 1 tsp Dijon mustard.
Time: PT1M
Combine and Emulsify
Press the peeled garlic cloves into the mixture (or mince them) and whisk vigorously until the dressing thickens and becomes uniform.
Time: PT2M
Taste and Adjust
Taste the dressing and add a pinch more salt or a splash of lemon juice if needed.
Time: PT1M
Dress the Salad
Drizzle the dressing over your favorite Greek salad ingredients and toss gently to coat.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 120
- Protein
- 0g
- Carbohydrates
- 1g
- Fat
- 14g
- Fiber
- 0g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free
Allergens: Mustard
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Garlic: Garlic powder (1/4 tsp)
- Instead of Lemon: Lime juice (same amount), White wine vinegar (1 tbsp)
- Instead of Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Light olive oil, Avocado oil
- Instead of Salt: Kosher salt (same amount)
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper (same amount)
- Instead of Dried Oregano: Italian seasoning (1 tsp)
- Instead of Dijon Mustard: Stone-ground mustard (1 tsp), Whole grain mustard (1 tsp)
Equipment Needed
- Measuring Cup
- Small Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Fork
- Garlic Press (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Pressing the garlic into the dressing
- Emulsifying the olive oil and lemon juice with mustard
- Tasting and adjusting seasoning before serving
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Extra‑virgin olive oil adds a fruity note that pairs well with the oregano.
- Let the finished dressing rest for a few minutes; this allows the garlic and oregano to infuse the oil.
Troubleshooting
Dressing separates after sitting.
Whisk vigorously again or add a small extra pinch of Dijon mustard to re‑emulsify.
Dressing is too thick.
Thin with a teaspoon of water or extra lemon juice until desired consistency.
Flavor is too sharp or acidic.
Add a tiny drizzle of extra olive oil or a pinch of sugar to mellow the acidity.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in a sealed jar or container for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Not recommended; oil may solidify and texture changes.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours while serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Store the dressing in a glass jar; shake well before each use.
- The flavors improve after 15‑20 minutes of resting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Simple Greek Salad Dressing in Greek cuisine?
Greek salad dressing reflects the Mediterranean emphasis on fresh, simple ingredients like olive oil, lemon, and herbs. Historically, it was a farmhouse staple, using what was on hand to brighten vegetables and feta cheese.
What are the traditional regional variations of Greek salad dressing across Greece?
In the islands, red wine vinegar may replace lemon, while in the mainland oregano is often swapped for fresh mint. Some regions add a splash of sherry vinegar or a pinch of dried thyme for local flavor.
How is Simple Greek Salad Dressing authentically served in Greece?
It is traditionally drizzled over a tossed salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta, then served immediately with crusty bread on the side.
During which occasions or celebrations is Simple Greek Salad Dressing commonly used in Greek culture?
Greek salads dressed with this simple vinaigrette appear at family meals, summer picnics, and festive gatherings such as name‑days and religious holidays, where fresh vegetables are abundant.
How does Simple Greek Salad Dressing fit into the broader Greek cuisine tradition?
It exemplifies the Greek culinary principle of letting high‑quality ingredients shine with minimal processing, complementing the diet’s focus on vegetables, olive oil, and herbs.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Simple Greek Salad Dressing versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients are extra‑virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, sea salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and Dijon mustard. Acceptable substitutes include lime juice for lemon, garlic powder for fresh garlic, and stone‑ground mustard for Dijon.
What other Greek dishes pair well with Simple Greek Salad Dressing?
It pairs beautifully with classic Greek salad, grilled halloumi, roasted vegetables, and as a light drizzle over grilled fish or chicken souvlaki.
What makes Simple Greek Salad Dressing special or unique in Greek cuisine?
The inclusion of Dijon mustard is a modern twist that stabilizes the emulsion, giving a smoother texture while still honoring the classic olive‑oil‑lemon base.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Simple Greek Salad Dressing?
Common errors include over‑whisking which can break the emulsion, using too much lemon which over‑powers the oil, and forgetting to press the garlic, resulting in a bland dressing.
Why does this Simple Greek Salad Dressing recipe use Dijon mustard instead of regular mustard?
Dijon mustard contains fine mustard seeds and a smoother texture, which acts as an effective emulsifier, helping the oil and lemon juice blend without separating.
Can I make Simple Greek Salad Dressing ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, store it in a sealed glass jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before each use as natural separation may occur.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making Simple Greek Salad Dressing?
The dressing should be glossy, slightly thickened, and homogenous with no visible oil‑water separation. It should coat a spoon lightly without dripping off immediately.
What does the YouTube channel House of G&K Recipes specialize in?
House of G&K Recipes focuses on easy-to-follow, family‑friendly dishes that blend classic Mediterranean flavors with modern cooking shortcuts, often highlighting fresh, wholesome ingredients.
What is the cooking philosophy and style of the YouTube channel House of G&K Recipes?
The channel emphasizes simplicity, flavor balance, and practical tips for home cooks, encouraging the use of pantry staples while showcasing authentic regional twists.
Last updated: August 29, 2026
