My husband loves French dressing. It’s his very favorite. So recently, when he asked if I would make him a homemade version, I jumped at the chance. By simply looking at the back of a major brand’s ingredient list, I whipped together ingredients until I got a dressing that tasted better than the bottled store-bought version I was imitating.
Storing Homemade Salad Dressings
French salad dressing can be kept in an airtight container, like a mason jar, in the refrigerator for up to one week. Pour as much as you desire on your salad and return the dressing to the fridge. You may need to give it a stir if you see some separation.
Tomato paste: This is the base of your dressing, giving it a rich, tangy flavor and a classic reddish-orange color. While some French dressing recipes use ketchup, I chose to use tomato paste because it offers a richer, more concentrated flavor without the added sweetness and extra ingredients found in ketchup. This allows for better control over the sweetness and acidity, resulting in a more authentic and well-balanced dressing. Water: Helps to thin out the tomato paste and create the perfect consistency for your dressing without changing the taste. Vegetable oil: Adds a smooth, creamy texture and helps the flavors meld together. Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomato paste and gives the dressing a slightly sweet flavor. White vinegar: Adds a sharp, tangy kick that complements the sweetness, creating a well-rounded flavor. Onion powder: Brings a subtle savory note to the dressing, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering it. Salt: If you are using table salt, rather than kosher salt, start with half of what the recipe calls for and adjust to fit your taste preferences.
Combine the tomato paste and water. Whisk them in a bowl until combined. Add the other ingredients. Whisk in the remaining ingredients, taste the dressing, and adjust the seasonings as needed. Serve over salad and enjoy.
If you make this French dressing recipe or any of my other recipes, I’d be so grateful if you came back and told me how you enjoyed it.
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