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–+ servings
Creamy Tart French Dressing
This Creamy Tart French Dressing is a classic homemade salad dressing that blends creamy mayonnaise with tangy red wine vinegar and warm spices like paprika and dry mustard. A touch of sugar balances the acidity, while minced garlic adds depth and complexity. The result is a smooth, rich, and flavorful dressing that pairs beautifully with green salads, cold pasta dishes, or fresh vegetables. Its vibrant, reddish hue and luscious texture make it a timeless favorite for dressing up simple meals with a bold, savory kick.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course condiments
Cuisine French
Servings 8
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ¼ cup Mazola corn oil (or any neutral vegetable oil)
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 ½ tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp dry mustard
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ clove garlic (minced)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Base

  • In a medium bowl, gradually stir the corn oil into the mayonnaise.
  • Beat until smooth and fully combined.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

  • Combine red wine vinegar, sugar, paprika, dry mustard, salt, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
  • Mix well until the sugar dissolves.

Step 3: Combine & Chill

  • Stir the vinegar mixture into the mayonnaise mixture until fully blended.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tips

  • Use a whisk to fully emulsify the oil into the mayonnaise for a smooth texture.
  • Adjust sugar up or down depending on how sweet you prefer your French dressing.
  • Substitute apple cider vinegar for red wine vinegar for a mellower tang.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for a lightly spicy version.
  • Use fresh garlic for the brightest flavor, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
  • For a thinner dressing, whisk in 1 to 2 teaspoons of water or milk.
  • Chill for at least 1 hour for best flavor development.
  • Use on green salads, shredded cabbage slaws, or as a dip for vegetables.

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 0.5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 25mgSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 0.2mg
Keyword creamy dressing, french dressing, homemade dressing, mayonnaise dressing, salad dressing, tangy dressing, vintage recipe
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