Homemade Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe

Ingredients

• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 ½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Substitutions

1. Oil: For a slightly richer flavor, you can use olive oil instead of vegetable oil. It will add a different depth to the dressing. Avocado oil is another healthy option that works well (and it’s my favorite oil to use!).
2. Vinegar: A lighter alternative to apple cider vinegar with a milder taste is white wine vinegar. Red wine vinegar adds a bit more tang and depth to the flavor.
3. Mayonnaise: For a lighter, tangier version with added protein try using Greek yogurt. Sour cream provides a similar creamy texture with a bit more tang.
4. Dijon Mustard: For a sweeter twist, use honey mustard.
5. Sugar: Use honey in place of sugar for a natural sweetener.

Keep in mind that any modifications you make will alter the overall flavor of the salad. Adjustments to the ingredients can significantly impact the taste, so experiment with substitutions carefully.

Variations

1. Citrus Poppy Seed Dressing: Add the zest and juice of one lemon or orange for a bright, citrusy twist.
2. Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing without Mayo: For creaminess without mayonnaise, use Greek yogurt or a combination of yogurt and a small amount of buttermilk.
3. Honey Poppy Seed Dressing: Substitute the sugar with honey and reduce the vinegar slightly to balance the sweetness.

Tips for Adjustments

• Consistency: If the dressing is too thick, add a bit of water or more vinegar to thin it out. If it’s too thin, add a bit more mayonnaise or yogurt.
• Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness to your taste by adding more or less sugar, honey, or maple syrup.
• Acidity: If you prefer a more tangy dressing, increase the amount of vinegar slightly.