If you’ve ever had a traditional Greek salad at a restaurant and wondered how to recreate that same tangy, zesty flavor at home, you’re in the right place. A homemade Greek salad dressing recipe is surprisingly simple, quick to make, and far better than anything you’ll find in a bottle. This dressing is fresh, vibrant, and versatile — perfect for tossing with crisp veggies, drizzling over grilled meats, or even using as a marinade.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the best Greek salad dressing, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, and pro tips to get that authentic Mediterranean taste.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Salad Dressing
Greek cuisine is all about fresh, wholesome ingredients and bold, simple flavors. This dressing checks all the boxes — tangy from red wine vinegar, zesty from lemon juice, and full of flavor thanks to oregano, garlic, and extra-virgin olive oil.
Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen:
- Quick & Easy: Takes just 5 minutes to make.
- Healthy & Clean: Made with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs — no additives or preservatives.
- Versatile: Perfect for salads, marinades, and dipping bread.
- Authentic Flavor: Just like a classic village-style Greek salad.
Ingredients for Homemade Greek Salad Dressing
To make the perfect Greek salad dressing, you only need a handful of pantry staples. Using quality ingredients makes all the difference.
What You’ll Need:
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Choose a good-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Red Wine Vinegar: This gives the dressing its signature tang.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and balances the richness of the oil.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key for a bold, savory punch.
- Dijon Mustard (Optional): Helps emulsify the dressing for a smoother texture.
- Dried Oregano: A must-have for that classic Greek flavor.
- Salt & Black Pepper: To taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe is as easy as whisk, shake, and serve.
- Combine Ingredients:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and black pepper. - Add Olive Oil:
Slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing. - Taste & Adjust:
Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning — add more salt, pepper, or vinegar depending on your preference. - Serve or Store:
Use immediately or store in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Shake well before each use.
Greek Salad Dressing Recipe (Printable Version)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: Makes about 1 cup
Ingredients:
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Directions:
- Whisk vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Slowly add olive oil while whisking until smooth.
- Adjust to taste and serve over your favorite salad.
Tips for the Best Greek Salad Dressing
- Use Quality Olive Oil: Since olive oil is the base of this recipe, choose a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil with a rich, fruity flavor.
- Emulsify for a Creamier Texture: Adding Dijon mustard helps keep the dressing from separating.
- Make Ahead: This dressing tastes even better after sitting for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Shake Before Using: Natural separation is normal. Just give it a good shake.
How to Use Greek Salad Dressing
This dressing isn’t just for salad! Here are a few creative ways to use it:
- Classic Greek Salad: Toss with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
- Marinade: Use it to marinate chicken, shrimp, or lamb before grilling.
- Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle over roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for extra flavor.
- Grain Bowls: Add a spoonful over quinoa, chickpeas, and fresh veggies.
- Bread Dip: Serve with warm pita bread as a quick appetizer.
Greek Salad Dressing Variations
You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste:
- Creamy Greek Dressing: Whisk in 2 tbsp of plain Greek yogurt for a creamier version.
- Herby Twist: Add fresh dill, parsley, or basil for an extra burst of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Sweeter Balance: Add ½ tsp of honey if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing.
Health Benefits of Greek Salad Dressing
Homemade Greek salad dressing isn’t just delicious — it’s also good for you. Olive oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Garlic and oregano have immune-boosting properties, and lemon juice is packed with vitamin C.
By making your own dressing at home, you skip the added sugars, preservatives, and unhealthy oils often found in store-bought versions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does homemade Greek salad dressing last?
It stays fresh for about 5–7 days when stored in a sealed jar in the fridge.
2. Can I use fresh oregano instead of dried?
Yes! Use about 3 tsp of finely chopped fresh oregano in place of dried.
3. Can I make this dressing without mustard?
Absolutely. The mustard just helps emulsify the dressing but isn’t required.
Final Thoughts
Making your own Greek salad dressing recipe at home is a simple way to elevate your salads and bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a zesty, fresh dressing in minutes — no store-bought bottle required.
Next time you crave a crisp, refreshing Greek salad or want a quick marinade for grilled meats, try this recipe. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how much flavor it adds to every dish.