Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
This Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing is a vibrant, tangy, and slightly sweet emulsion perfect for brightening up any salad, especially those with fresh fruits or tender greens. Its unique texture and flavor profile make it an instant favorite.
For 8 servings
Gather all ingredients and measure them out. Ensure your olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey are at room temperature for easier emulsification.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.
Add the poppy seeds, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the liquid mixture.
If using a jar with a tight-fitting lid, pour all ingredients into the jar. Seal tightly and shake vigorously for 30-60 seconds until the dressing is fully emulsified and appears creamy and homogenous.
If using a bowl, continue whisking constantly and vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the dressing thickens slightly and no longer appears separated.
Taste the dressing and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more salt, pepper, honey for sweetness, or vinegar for tang, depending on your preference.
Serve immediately over your favorite salads, such as spinach salad with strawberries, a mixed green salad, or a fruit salad.
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. The dressing may separate upon standing; simply shake or whisk well before each use.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the creamiest texture, ensure all liquid ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Cold ingredients can make emulsification more challenging.
- 2If your dressing isn't emulsifying properly, try adding a tiny splash (1-2 teaspoons) of warm water and whisking vigorously again. The water can sometimes help bridge the oil and vinegar.
- 3Always taste and adjust! The quality and brand of your olive oil, vinegar, and honey can vary, so fine-tuning the balance of sweet, sour, and savory is key to a perfect dressing.
- 4While a jar and vigorous shaking work well, an immersion blender or a regular blender can create an even smoother, thicker emulsion in seconds.
Adapt it for your goals.
Extra Creamy
For an even richer, thicker dressing, add 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the mixture before emulsifying. This will enhance the creaminess without compromising the tangy flavor.
Herbaceous BoostHerbaceous Boost
Incorporate 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh chives or dill for an aromatic twist that pairs wonderfully with green salads.
Citrus ZestCitrus Zest
Add 1 teaspoon of fresh orange or lemon zest along with the other ingredients to introduce a brighter, more complex citrus note that complements the poppy seeds beautifully.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Digestive Support
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which may aid digestion, improve nutrient absorption, and help regulate blood sugar levels.
Mineral Boost from Poppy Seeds
Poppy seeds are a good source of dietary fiber, manganese, calcium, and phosphorus, contributing to bone health and overall well-being.
Frequently asked questions
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing will stay fresh for up to one week. Always shake or whisk well before each use, as natural separation may occur.
