Are you ready to elevate your salad game? This New Orleans Soaked Salad Dressing Recipe is fo you!

It is a classic favorite that’s sure to bring a little Southern charm to your table.

Perfect for those who love a tangy, creamy dressing, it’s super easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick and tasty lunch, this dressing is your new go-to. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This New Orleans Soaked Salad Dressing

Classic Southern Flavor: This dressing captures the essence of New Orleans cuisine—tangy, creamy, and just a bit spicy. It’s perfect for those who love a zesty kick.
Versatile: Use it on any salad, from simple lettuce to hearty mixed greens. It also makes a fantastic dip for veggies or crackers!
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
Pantry Staples: Made with ingredients you likely already have on hand. No need to run to the store!
Customizable: Adjust the heat with cayenne pepper, or add a splash of hot sauce if you like it extra spicy.
Perfect for Entertaining: Impress your guests with this homemade dressing—it’s a crowd-pleaser every time!

How to Make It

Let’s dive into making this delicious dressing!

First, grab a medium-sized bowl. Add the mayonnaise, buttermilk, and white vinegar.

These three ingredients form the base of the dressing, giving it that creamy, tangy flavor.

Next, sprinkle in the sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it).

Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.

Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings if needed—add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice if you prefer.

Once it’s perfect, transfer the dressing to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

This step is crucial for that “soaked” flavor that makes this dressing so special.

When you’re ready to serve, give it a good stir and drizzle it over your favorite salad.

Enjoy!

Make Ahead Method

This New Orleans Soaked Salad Dressing is perfect for making ahead, which makes it incredibly convenient for busy schedules or meal prepping. You can prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance, giving you more time to focus on other dishes or just enjoy your day. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Mix and Refrigerate

Combine all the ingredients in a medium-sized bowl and whisk until smooth. Transfer the dressing to an airtight container or a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld and deepen over time, making the dressing even more delicious.

Step 2: Stir Before Using

When you’re ready to use the dressing, give it a good stir. You might notice some separation, which is normal. A quick stir will bring it back together. Drizzle it over your favorite salad, and enjoy!

Step 3: Portion for Meal Prep

If you’re meal prepping for the week, portion the dressing into smaller containers or mason jars. This way, you can easily grab a container and add it to your salad without having to measure it out each time.

Step 4: Use as a Dip

This dressing also works wonderfully as a dip for fresh veggies, pita chips, or crackers. Prepare it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for a quick and flavorful snack.

Step 5: Freeze for Longer Storage

If you want to store the dressing for longer, you can freeze it. Pour the dressing into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. When you need it, just thaw a cube or two in the fridge overnight.

Pro Tips

Let’s dive into some expert tips to make your New Orleans Soaked Salad Dressing even better!

Buttermilk Substitute:

Don’t have buttermilk on hand? No problem! Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes, and you’ve got a perfect substitute. This mixture will give you the tangy flavor you need without a trip to the store.

Storage Solutions:

Store the dressing in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Glass jars are not only eco-friendly but also help keep the dressing fresh for longer. If you don’t have a glass jar, a plastic airtight container works just as well.

Flavor Boost:

Want to add an extra kick? Include a minced garlic clove or a splash of hot sauce. For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika. These small additions can elevate the dressing to new heights.

Salad Pairing:

This dressing pairs perfectly with a variety of salads. Try it with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded carrots for a refreshing summer salad. For a heartier option, toss in some chickpeas, grilled chicken, or avocado.

Dip Alternative:

Use this dressing as a dip for fresh veggies, pita chips, or crackers. It’s a hit at parties and makes a great appetizer. For a thicker dip, reduce the amount of buttermilk slightly.

Customization:

Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a bit more sugar. For a tangier flavor, increase the vinegar. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility!

Serving Suggestions:

Drizzle the dressing over a composed salad for a beautiful presentation. You can also mix it directly into the salad for an even coating. For a lighter option, toss only half the salad with the dressing and save the rest for another meal.

These tips will help you make the most of your New Orleans Soaked Salad Dressing, ensuring it’s always perfect, whether you’re making a quick lunch or hosting a dinner party. Enjoy!

Storage Options

Store the dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It’s best to let it sit for at least 30 minutes before using it to let the flavors meld. If you notice any separation, just give it a good stir before serving.

Tools For This Recipe

Medium-sized mixing bowl
Whisk
Airtight container or jar for storage
Measuring cups and spoons

FAQs!

Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

A: Yes, you can! Greek yogurt makes a healthier, tangier alternative to mayonnaise. Use the same amount and adjust the thickness with a bit of milk if needed.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?

A: No problem! Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes, and you’ve got a perfect substitute.

Q: How long does this dressing last in the fridge?

A: This dressing keeps well in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it.

Variations and Substitutions

Healthy Twist: Swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Spicy Kick: Add a minced jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Herb Infusion: Mix in some fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill for a burst of freshness.
Vegan Option: Use vegan mayonnaise and buttermilk alternatives for a plant-based version.

Conclusion

This New Orleans Soaked Salad Dressing is a game-changer for salad lovers! Its tangy, creamy flavor is perfect for any salad, and it’s so easy to make.

Did you try it? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Share your pics too—I’m always here for kitchen wins. 😊

P.S. Don’t forget to tag me if you post your creation on social media—I can’t wait to see!

P.S: Make sure to Check Out: Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing

Soaked Salad Dressing Recipe

This New Orleans Soaked Salad Dressing is a tangy, creamy delight that transforms any salad into a flavor-packed experience. It’s perfect for those who love a bit of zing with their greens!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Course Dressings

Cuisine American, Southern-Inspired

Servings 8 servings

Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup white vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a bit of heat

Instructions

Prepare Your Workspace:

Grab a medium-sized mixing bowl and a whisk. Having a clean, organized workspace makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient.

Combine the Base Ingredients:

Pour 1 cup of mayonnaise into your mixing bowl. Mayonnaise provides the creamy base for the dressing. Next, add 1/2 cup of buttermilk. Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the mayonnaise. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.

Add the Acid:

Next, add 1/4 cup of white vinegar to the bowl. Vinegar adds a sharp, tangy note that really makes the dressing pop. You can use apple cider vinegar if you prefer a milder flavor.

Sweeten the Dressing:

Add 1 tablespoon of sugar to the mixture. The sugar balances the acidity from the vinegar and buttermilk, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, you can increase the sugar to 1.5 tablespoons.

Season the Dressing:

Now, it’s time to add the seasonings. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. These spices add depth and complexity to the dressing. If you have fresh garlic and onion, you can mince them finely and use them instead of the powdered versions for an even more intense flavor.

Add the Final Touches:

Add 1/2 teaspoon of paprika to the bowl. Paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor and a beautiful color to the dressing. If you like a bit of heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. You can adjust the amount of cayenne based on your spice tolerance.

Mix Thoroughly:

Using your whisk, mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth. Make sure to whisk thoroughly to ensure all the seasonings are evenly distributed. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings if needed. If it’s too tangy, add a bit more sugar. If it’s too sweet, add a splash more vinegar.

Let It Soak:

Transfer the dressing to an airtight container or a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes. This “soaking” period allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more cohesive and delicious dressing. The longer it sits, the better it gets, so if you can, prepare it a day ahead.

Serve and Enjoy:

When you’re ready to use the dressing, give it a good stir. Drizzle it over your favorite salad, or use it as a dip for fresh veggies, pita chips, or crackers. Enjoy the delicious, tangy, and creamy flavors of your homemade New Orleans Soaked Salad Dressing!

Notes

New Orleans Soaked Salad Dressing Recipe