Creamy Lemon Mint Mediterranean Dressing
A Versatile Recipe for Salads & Marinades
This Creamy Lemon Mint Mediterranean Dressing is all about balance. The lemon and vinegar give it just the right amount of tang, while the Greek yogurt and mustard add creaminess without making it heavy. The dried mint, garlic, and spices lend it a complexity that makes it feel sophisticated yet approachable. Best of all, it’s incredibly versatile—you can use it as a salad dressing, a marinade, or even a dip. Once you start using it, you'll want to put it on everything!
So, go ahead and make a batch—you’ll be amazed at how this simple, flavorful dressing can elevate so many dishes in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for added tang and creaminess)
2 tbsp red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 cloves garlic, finely grated or crushed (for depth of flavor)
1/2 cup Avocado Oil (or olive oil)
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp Chili Smoked Paprika (Trader Joe’s, or substitute regular smoked paprika)
1/2 tsp dried mint (or 2 tsp fresh mint, finely chopped)
1/2 tsp Aleppo pepper (or a mix of paprika and cayenne pepper)
2 tbsp Greek yogurt (for creaminess and to balance the tang)
1/4 tsp xanthan gum (optional, for a thicker texture)
Instructions:
Step 1: Mix the Liquid Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, and salt until the salt dissolves. The mustard not only adds tang but also helps emulsify the dressing, giving it a smooth consistency.
Step 2: Add the Spices
Whisk in the black pepper, paprika, Chili Smoked Paprika, dried mint (or fresh mint), and Aleppo pepper. These spices bring depth, warmth, and a touch of heat to the dressing. Don’t forget to stir in the garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 3: Emulsify the Oil
Slowly drizzle in the avocado oil (or olive oil) while whisking continuously. This step ensures that the dressing emulsifies, creating a smooth and cohesive texture.
Step 4: Add Creaminess
Next, stir in the Greek yogurt. This will add creaminess and help balance the acidity from the lemon juice and vinegar, making the dressing richer and more luxurious.
Step 5: Optional Thickener
For a thicker consistency, whisk in 1/4 tsp xanthan gum. This step is completely optional but will give the dressing a more substantial texture, which is great if you're using it as a dip or spread.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste the dressing and adjust any seasonings as needed. Add more salt, lemon juice, or vinegar to suit your flavor preference.
Step 7: Store
Transfer the dressing to an airtight jar or bottle and refrigerate. The flavors will meld even more as it sits, and it will keep for up to a week. Be sure to shake or stir it well before using, as natural separation can occur.
How to Use This Dressing
As a Salad Dressing:
This creamy lemon mint dressing is perfect for Mediterranean-inspired salads. Pair it with fresh greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese for a refreshing summer salad.
As a Marinade:
The bright acidity from the lemon juice and vinegar, combined with the depth of the garlic, Dijon mustard, and spices, makes this dressing a great marinade for chicken, fish, or even lamb. Just coat your protein, let it marinate for 30 minutes to an hour, and then grill, bake, or pan-sear.
On Roasted Veggies:
Toss your favorite veggies—like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant—in this dressing before roasting or grilling. The yogurt helps the spices stick to the veggies while they cook, giving them a flavorful, crispy edge.
On Grain Bowls:
Drizzle this over a grain bowl filled with quinoa, roasted veggies, chickpeas, and greens. It adds creaminess and a zesty punch to the mix.