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Creamy Healthy Pasta Salad Dressing Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 52 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dressing
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Creamy Healthy Pasta Salad Dressing is a quick and wholesome sauce made with Greek yogurt, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice. Lightly sweetened with maple syrup and seasoned with garlic and herbs, it adds a vibrant, tangy creaminess to any pasta salad. Perfect for those seeking a nutritious, flavorful alternative to traditional mayo-based dressings.


Ingredients

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons water (to thin, as needed)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or parsley


Instructions

  1. Combine the Base: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy, forming the base of your dressing.
  2. Add Sweetness: Stir in the maple syrup or honey to balance the tanginess with a touch of natural sweetness.
  3. Incorporate Seasonings: Mix in the minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavor profile of the dressing.
  4. Adjust Consistency: Whisk the dressing thoroughly, then gradually add water, a little at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency for easy coating of pasta.
  5. Add Herbs: For an extra burst of fresh flavor, fold in chopped fresh dill or parsley.
  6. Taste and Adjust: Sample the dressing and adjust seasoning to your preference, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
  7. Serve or Store: Pour the dressing over cooked pasta and toss well to combine, or store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

  • Use dairy-free yogurt to make this dressing vegan and dairy-free.
  • Adjust the amount of water to control the thickness of your dressing.
  • Fresh herbs like dill or parsley enhance the flavor but are optional.
  • This dressing keeps well for up to 5 days refrigerated, making it great for meal prep.
  • Feel free to swap maple syrup with honey or omit for a less sweet version.
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for optimal brightness.