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–+ servings
Charlotte's Salad Dressing
This old-fashioned salad dressing recipe from Charlotte offers a unique take on creamy dressings, using whipped egg whites for a light texture and a tangy, slightly sweet flavor. With simple pantry ingredients like mustard, vinegar, and a bit of butter, it brings a nostalgic taste reminiscent of picnics and potlucks. Unlike commercial dressings, this version is cooked and gently folded with airy egg whites just before serving, making it both rich and delicate. It's perfect for pouring over lettuce, hard-boiled eggs, or potato salads.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Cooling/Whipping Time 10 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 76 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 eggs (separated)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp dry mustard
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ⅔ cup white vinegar
  • 1 cup whole milk

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Eggs

  • Separate the 4 eggs. Place yolks in a mixing bowl and whites in a clean, dry bowl to whip later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

  • In a small bowl, stir together the sugar, dry mustard, and salt.

Step 3: Dissolve Mustard

  • Add 1 tablespoon of water to the dry mixture to form a smooth paste.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Pan

  • In a saucepan, add vinegar, milk, butter, egg yolks, and the mustard paste. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Cook the Dressing

  • Heat over medium, stirring constantly, until the dressing thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 7–8 minutes). Remove from heat and allow to cool to lukewarm.

Step 6: Whip the Egg Whites

  • Beat the 4 egg whites until stiff peaks form.

Step 7: Fold and Finish

  • Just before serving, gently fold the whipped egg whites into the cooled dressing. Do not reheat after folding in the whites.

Tips

  • Whisk continuously when combining with the hot vinegar to prevent separation
  • Allow dressing to cool slightly before serving for best flavor
  • Shake well before serving if stored
  • Add a pinch of paprika for mild warmth
  • Use whole milk for the creamiest texture
  • Serve warm over leaf lettuce for a traditional presentation
  • Excellent over iceberg, butter lettuce, or simple garden salads
  • Can be made a few hours ahead and gently rewarmed
  • Adjust salt to taste depending on vinegar strength

Nutrition

Calories: 76kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 3gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 72mgSodium: 52mgPotassium: 70mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 170IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 44mgIron: 0.4mg
Keyword classic salad dressing, family recipe, heirloom recipe, homemade dressing, retro, vintage
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