Greek Salad Dressing is a zesty, herb-packed vinaigrette that brings Mediterranean flavor to any dish. Made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and oregano, this simple dressing is perfect for classic Greek salads, roasted vegetables, or as a marinade for meats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy — ready in 5 minutes
- Bold and tangy with fresh herb flavor
- Healthier than store-bought versions
- Perfect as a salad dressing or marinade
- Uses pantry-friendly ingredients
- Naturally gluten-free and vegan
- Customizable to your taste
- Keeps well in the fridge
- Great on everything from greens to grilled chicken
- Tastes like what you’d find in a Greek taverna
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- extra-virgin olive oil
- red wine vinegar
- fresh lemon juice (optional)
- garlic, minced
- Dijon mustard
- dried oregano
- salt and black pepper
- optional: honey or sugar, chili flakes, fresh parsley or basil
directions
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking, or shake sealed jar vigorously until emulsified.
- Taste and adjust seasoning or acidity to your preference.
- Store in the fridge and shake before each use.
Servings and timing
- Makes: ¾ to 1 cup
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Add honey or sugar for a sweeter profile
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or dill
- Swap lemon juice for orange juice for a citrus twist
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick
- Blend in Greek yogurt for a creamy version
- Replace red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a milder flavor
storage/reheating
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days
- Dressing may separate—shake or whisk before using
- Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture
- Do not reheat; it’s meant to be served cold or at room temp
FAQs
What makes this a “Greek” dressing?
The combination of olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and oregano gives it the classic Mediterranean flavor profile.
Can I skip the Dijon mustard?
Yes, but it helps emulsify the dressing and adds tang.
Is this dressing healthy?
Yes—it’s made with wholesome ingredients and healthy fats from olive oil.
What if I don’t have red wine vinegar?
You can use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as a substitute.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to one week when stored properly.
Can I use this as a marinade?
Absolutely—it works well for chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.
What can I serve it with?
Greek salads, grain bowls, pasta salads, grilled meats, or roasted veggies.
Is this dressing vegan?
Yes, if you omit honey or use a vegan sweetener.
Can I freeze this dressing?
Not recommended—fresh vinaigrettes are best made fresh or stored in the fridge.
Can I use fresh oregano?
Yes, but dried oregano has a more concentrated flavor and is more traditional.
Conclusion
Greek Salad Dressing is a staple you’ll want to keep on hand. With its fresh, bold flavor and easy prep, it elevates salads and entrees alike. Whether you drizzle it over greens, toss it into a pasta salad, or use it as a marinade, this classic vinaigrette is a true Mediterranean essential.
Print
Greek Salad Dressing
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 5 mins
- Yield: About ¾ cup (6 servings) 1x
- Category: Dressing / Condiment
- Method: Whisked
- Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A bright, tangy, and herb‑filled dressing inspired by Greek flavors, perfect for tossing with salads, marinating vegetables, or drizzling over grilled meats.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra‑virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped)
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or 1 tsp honey for a touch of sweetness
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, thyme (if using), salt, pepper, and optional honey/red pepper flakes.
- While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the dressing is fully emulsified and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning—add more salt, pepper, or a splash more vinegar or lemon if desired.
- Let rest for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld; refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Before serving, whisk again or shake the jar to recombine. Drizzle over Greek salad or use as a marinade or finishing dressing.
Notes
- Use high‑quality extra‑virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar for the best flavor.
- Fresh herbs can replace dried—use about 3× the amount of fresh as dried.
- Want it creamy? Add 1–2 tbsp Greek yogurt or crumbled feta when serving.
- Make-ahead tip: store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 5 days; bring to room temperature and shake before using.
- Great beyond salad—use it on grain bowls, roasted veggies, or as a dipping sauce for crusty bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tbsp
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 0.2 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 13.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10.9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0.3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg