If you love the zesty, tangy flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, this Greek dressing recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Forget the bottled dressings from the store — this homemade version is fresher, healthier, and bursting with bright flavors that complement salads, grilled vegetables, wraps, and more.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, entertaining guests, or just craving a crisp Greek salad for lunch, this recipe is quick to make and takes less than 10 minutes. You likely already have all the ingredients in your pantry!
In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making the perfect Greek salad dressing — including the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, storage tips, and serving ideas.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Dressing Recipe
Homemade Greek dressing is one of those simple recipes that makes a big impact on your meals. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Quick & Easy: Takes less than 10 minutes to make.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and herbs — no additives or preservatives.
- Versatile: Perfect for salads, marinades, grilled chicken, or drizzling over roasted vegetables.
- Bold Flavor: Tangy, garlicky, and herby — just like you’d get at a Greek restaurant.
Ingredients for Greek Dressing
Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic Greek dressing recipe:
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil – Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar – Gives the dressing its signature tang.
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice – Adds brightness and freshness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – A must for that punchy Greek flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Helps emulsify the dressing so it’s creamy and smooth.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – The star herb in Greek cuisine.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil – Optional, but adds depth.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Boosts savory notes.
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper – To taste.
How to Make Greek Dressing
Follow these easy steps to create your delicious homemade dressing:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl or mason jar, whisk together the red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, basil, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Slowly Add Olive Oil: While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to emulsify the dressing. If using a jar, just add all ingredients, seal with a lid, and shake vigorously.
- Taste & Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed for balance.
- Serve: Drizzle over your favorite salad, toss with fresh greens, or use as a marinade.
That’s it! Your Greek salad dressing is ready to enjoy.
Tips for the Best Greek Dressing
To make sure your dressing tastes as fresh and flavorful as possible, keep these tips in mind:
- Use quality olive oil: This is the base of your dressing, so choose a good extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
- Fresh lemon juice > bottled: Freshly squeezed lemon juice has a much brighter flavor.
- Adjust to taste: Everyone’s preference for tanginess is different — start with the suggested vinegar and lemon juice amounts, then tweak.
- Shake before using: The ingredients will separate over time, so give it a quick shake before drizzling.
Greek Dressing Variations
Want to customize your Greek dressing recipe? Try these fun twists:
- Creamy Greek Dressing: Whisk in 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamier texture.
- Feta Twist: Add 2 tablespoons of crumbled feta cheese for a salty, tangy boost.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Herb Upgrade: Use fresh oregano or add chopped fresh dill, parsley, or mint for extra brightness.
How to Store Greek Dressing
Homemade Greek dressing stores beautifully. Here’s how:
- Refrigerate: Store in a sealed mason jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
- Bring to Room Temp: Olive oil may solidify when chilled. Just let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes and shake well before using.
Serving Suggestions
This dressing isn’t just for salads! Here are some creative ways to use it:
- Classic Greek Salad: Toss with romaine lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onion, and feta cheese.
- Mediterranean Bowls: Drizzle over rice bowls with grilled chicken, roasted veggies, and hummus.
- Marinade: Use as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, or tofu — just let it sit for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cauliflower with the dressing before roasting for a burst of flavor.
- Wraps & Pitas: Drizzle over gyros, falafel wraps, or veggie pitas.
Health Benefits of Greek Dressing
This Greek dressing recipe isn’t just delicious — it’s good for you too!
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats that support heart health.
- Antioxidants: Herbs like oregano and basil are packed with antioxidants.
- Low in Sugar: Unlike many store-bought dressings, this recipe contains no added sugars.
- Naturally Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: Perfect for a variety of dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?
Yes! It will give the dressing a slightly different flavor, but it still tastes great.
2. How long does homemade Greek dressing last?
It keeps for about 1 week in the fridge. Always shake before using.
3. Can I make it without mustard?
Yes, but keep in mind that Dijon mustard helps emulsify the dressing. You can leave it out, but the dressing may separate more quickly.
Final Thoughts
This Greek dressing recipe is a quick and easy way to bring fresh Mediterranean flavor to your kitchen. With just a few pantry ingredients, you can whip up a homemade dressing that’s healthier and tastier than anything you’ll find at the store.
Whether you’re tossing it with a crisp salad, using it as a marinade, or drizzling it over roasted veggies, this dressing is sure to become a favorite. Try it once, and you’ll never go back to store-bought bottles again!