This Creamy Lemon Greek Yogurt Dressing is a tangy, savory, and refreshing addition to salads, grain bowls, or roasted vegetables. Made with simple ingredients like Greek yogurt, lemon, and fresh herbs, it’s a healthier alternative to store-bought dressings while packing in bold flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light and Healthy: Made with Greek yogurt for a creamy yet low-fat option.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 5 minutes with no cooking required.
- Versatile: Perfect for salads, marinades, grain bowls, or as a dip.
- Customizable: Adjust the herbs and seasoning to fit your preference.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Stays fresh in the fridge for several days.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced or grated
- Leaves from 3 sprigs of fresh thyme, roughly chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a medium bowl or large glass jar, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk Until Smooth: Stir or whisk until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing has a creamy consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed for flavor balance.
- Store or Serve: Use immediately, or store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Stir or shake before use if separation occurs.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6 servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Herb Swap: Substitute thyme with fresh dill, parsley, or basil for a different flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
- Sweeter Version: Mix in a teaspoon of honey for a balanced tangy-sweet taste.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
- Extra Creamy: Blend in a tablespoon of tahini or mashed avocado for a richer texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Separation Fix: If the dressing separates, stir or shake well before using.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the yogurt may change texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, but Greek yogurt gives a thicker consistency. If using regular yogurt, reduce the lemon juice slightly to avoid a runny texture.
2. How can I make this dressing vegan?
Use dairy-free Greek-style yogurt and swap honey for maple syrup if adding sweetness.
3. What salads pair well with this dressing?
It’s great on Greek salads, mixed greens, quinoa bowls, or roasted vegetable salads.
4. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.
5. How can I make this dressing less tangy?
Reduce the lemon juice or add a small amount of honey or olive oil for balance.
6. Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh?
Yes, substitute with 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder for a milder garlic flavor.
7. Is this dressing good as a dip?
Absolutely! It works well as a dip for veggies, pita, or grilled meats.
8. What’s the best way to store this dressing?
Keep it in a sealed glass jar or airtight container in the fridge.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just adjust the seasoning to taste when scaling up.
10. Can I use this dressing as a marinade?
Yes, it works well for marinating chicken, fish, or tofu before grilling or roasting.
Conclusion
This Creamy Lemon Greek Yogurt Dressing is an easy, healthy, and flavorful addition to your kitchen. Whether you drizzle it over salads, use it as a dip, or spread it on sandwiches, this versatile dressing brings a fresh, zesty touch to any meal. Give it a try and elevate your dishes with homemade goodness!
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Creamy Lemon Greek Yogurt Dressing
This Creamy Lemon Greek Yogurt Dressing is a light, tangy, and flavorful addition to any salad, grain bowl, or roasted vegetables. Made with Greek yogurt, lemon, garlic, and fresh thyme, this easy homemade dressing is healthy, creamy, and packed with bright citrusy flavors.
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup plain Greek yogurt
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced or grated
- Leaves from 3 sprigs of fresh thyme, roughly chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
-
- In a medium bowl or a large glass jar, add Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk Until Smooth:
- Stir or whisk until all ingredients are fully combined and the dressing is smooth.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
- Store & Serve:
- Use immediately or store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Stir or shake before using if separation occurs.
Notes
- For a thinner dressing, add 1-2 tablespoons of water or extra lemon juice.
- Swap thyme for fresh dill, parsley, or basil for different flavor variations.
- Perfect as a salad dressing, dip, or drizzle for roasted vegetables and grilled proteins.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauces & Dips
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
