Ah, the classic French dressing! This isn't your bottled, mass-produced version. This is Grandma's French dressing – a recipe passed down through generations, bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. It's the perfect accompaniment to crisp salads, grilled meats, or even as a marinade. This easy recipe takes just minutes to make, proving that homemade doesn't mean complicated. Get ready for a taste of simple deliciousness!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or olive oil for a richer flavor)
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, red wine vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Season: Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away!
- Emulsify: Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds to ensure all the ingredients are well combined. You should see a slight thickening of the dressing.
- Chill (optional): For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Tips for the Best French Dressing:
- Oil choice: Experiment with different oils! Olive oil adds a wonderful fruity note, while avocado oil provides a creamier texture.
- Sweetness level: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your preference. If you like a tangier dressing, reduce the sugar or omit it entirely.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Fresh herbs: Enhance the flavor profile by adding a teaspoon of dried oregano or a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives.
Variations:
- Creamy French Dressing: Stir in 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise for a richer, creamier texture.
- Honey Mustard French Dressing: Replace the brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of honey and increase the Dijon mustard to 1 1/2 tablespoons.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 0g
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick and healthy meal solution. The homemade touch adds a level of freshness and flavor that you just can’t get from store-bought dressings. It's a healthy and delicious addition to any salad, providing a fantastic balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying taste of home!