Creamy Basil Dressing Or Dip Recipe

Transform ordinary meals into culinary masterpieces with this versatile Creamy Basil Dressing or Dip! This recipe is incredibly easy to make and boasts vibrant basil flavor. Enjoy it as a light and zesty salad dressing, a creamy dip for your favorite veggies, a decadent baked potato topping, or even as a healthy mayonnaise substitute in sandwiches. The vegan option, using silken tofu, is just as delicious! Best of all? The flavors deepen and intensify after 24 hours of marinating in the refrigerator (marinating time is not included in the prep time). Makes enough for a week of deliciousness!

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Calories 500.8 kcal
Protein 21g
Rating 4.5 (4 Reviews)
Creamy Basil Dressing Or Dip 51

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Creamy Basil Dressing Or Dip

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Fresh Basil
  • Dry Mustard
  • Garlic Clove
  • Olive Oil
  • Low Fat Greek Yogurt
  • Salt to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon)

How to Make Creamy Basil Dressing Or Dip

  1. Combine 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 2 cloves garlic in a food processor or blender.
  2. Process until completely smooth.
  3. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup olive oil until fully incorporated.
  4. If using tofu (for vegan option): Add 1/2 cup silken tofu and blend until smooth and creamy.
  5. If using yogurt (non-vegan option): Gently stir in 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt in a separate bowl after removing the dressing from the food processor.
  6. Season generously with salt to taste. Start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust as needed.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours for best flavor. (Refrigeration time is not included in cook time)
  8. Stir well before each serving. Add a teaspoon or two of water if the dressing is too thick.
  9. Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

5 g

Sugar

57g

Fat

37g

Carbs

6g

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