I absolutely love this Creamy Basil Dressing Recipe because it’s a beautiful blend of fresh herbs and tangy creaminess that just brightens up any salad or veggie plate. When I first tried it, I was blown away by how the fresh basil really shines through, giving it that garden-fresh flavor that pairs perfectly with everything from leafy greens to grilled chicken.
You’ll find that this dressing is incredibly versatile, making it a go-to for quick weeknight meals or fancy weekend dinners where you want a little something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it comes together in just 10 minutes, so it’s perfect for those moments when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Herb Power: The basil, parsley, dill, and chives combine for an unbelievably fresh and vibrant taste.
- Super Creamy Texture: Greek yogurt and mayo make it satisfyingly creamy without feeling too heavy.
- Quick & Easy Prep: You just toss everything in the blender and voila — perfect dressing in minutes.
- Versatile Use: Works amazingly on salads, as a dip, or a marinade, making it a kitchen staple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Creamy Basil Dressing Recipe lies in simple, fresh ingredients you likely have on hand or can easily find at the market. The fresh herbs elevate the taste, while the creamy base balances everything perfectly.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess with a protein boost and tangy flavor.
- Mayonnaise: Brings richness and smooth texture.
- Buttermilk: Keeps the dressing pourable and adds a subtle tang.
- Fresh Basil: The star herb that infuses bright, aromatic notes.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds a mild earthiness and color.
- Fresh Dill: Offers a delicate, slightly citrusy undertone.
- Fresh Chives: Introduce a mild oniony bite.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami depth and a hint of savory sweetness.
- Garlic Powder: Gives a gentle garlic flavor without overpowering.
- Onion Powder: Enhances the savory notes.
- Kosher Salt: Brings out all the flavors.
- Black Pepper: Adds a touch of spice and warmth.
Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations
I like to tweak the Creamy Basil Dressing Recipe depending on what’s in my fridge or the vibe I’m going for. Sometimes I swap the herbs or add a few extras to keep it exciting.
- Make it Vegan: I’ve had great success swapping mayo for vegan mayo and Greek yogurt for a plant-based alternative like cashew cream.
- Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce gives the dressing a nice little heat that my family really enjoys.
- Extra Zesty: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors even more, especially during summer months.
- Herb Swap: If basil isn’t available, fresh cilantro or mint can make a fun twist.
How to Make Creamy Basil Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Fresh Herbs
Start by rinsing your fresh basil, parsley, dill, and chives thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth – this prevents your dressing from becoming watery. It’s a small step, but drying the herbs really helps keep the texture just right.
Step 2: Combine and Blend All Ingredients
Pop everything into your blender: Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, buttermilk, fresh herbs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend on medium speed until everything is silky smooth and fully incorporated. This usually takes around 30 to 45 seconds. If you want it thinner, just add a splash more buttermilk.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Give your dressing a taste test. Feel free to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or herbs if you want a bolder flavor. This is your chance to make it perfect, so trust your taste buds!
Step 4: Chill for Best Flavor
Although you can use this dressing right away, I’ve found it tastes best when chilled for at least 20-30 minutes. The herbs get to mingle with the creamy base, creating a richer, more harmonious flavor. If you’re in a hurry, it’s still delicious straight from the blender.
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Basil Dressing Recipe
- Use Fresh Herbs: I’ve learned that fresh basil and parsley make all the difference here – dried herbs just don’t have the same punch.
- Balance Tang and Cream: If your dressing tastes too tangy, add a little more mayo or yogurt; if it’s too thick, thin it with buttermilk or even water.
- Blender Over Whisk: Blending helps break down the herbs into the dressing better than hand mixing, giving you that smooth, uniform texture.
- Salt Slowly: Add salt gradually, tasting as you go to avoid over-salting – Worcestershire sauce already adds some saltiness.
How to Serve Creamy Basil Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
For me, the best garnishes are chopped extra fresh basil or chives sprinkled on top. Sometimes I throw on a little cracked black pepper or even a few toasted pine nuts for a bit of crunch and color. It just elevates the look and adds a nice texture contrast.
Side Dishes
I love pairing this creamy basil dressing with fresh garden salads, roasted veggies, or grilled chicken breast. It also doubles as a lovely dip for crisp crudités or warm breadsticks. My family goes crazy for dipping sweet potato fries in it – such an unexpected but delicious combo!
Creative Ways to Present
One fun way I’ve served it for guests is in little glass jars layered with a salad or as a drizzle over shrimp skewers. It’s also fantastic dolloped over avocado toast for brunch or as a sauce base in grain bowls, making your meal feel restaurant-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep leftover creamy basil dressing in a sealed container or jar in the fridge, and it stays fresh for up to 5 days. Just give it a quick stir or shake before each use since it tends to separate a bit over time.
Freezing
I’ve tried freezing this dressing once or twice, but because of the yogurt and mayo, the texture changes and might become slightly grainy upon thawing. For best results, I recommend making a fresh batch or only freezing small portions for later use in cooked dishes rather than salads.
Reheating
This dressing is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating needed. If you do want it less chilly, just let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
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Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh in this Creamy Basil Dressing Recipe?
While you technically can use dried herbs, I don’t recommend it because the fresh herbs bring a brightness and depth that dried just can’t match. If you’re in a pinch, use about 1/3 of the fresh amount in dried form, but the dressing won’t be as vibrant.
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Is this dressing suitable for keto or low-carb diets?
Absolutely! This Creamy Basil Dressing Recipe uses ingredients like Greek yogurt, mayo, and fresh herbs which are low in carbs, making it a great option if you’re following keto or low-carb eating plans.
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How long does this dressing last in the fridge?
It will keep fresh and delicious for up to 5 days when stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Just remember to stir it well before each use if it separates.
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Can I make this dressing nut-free and dairy-free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, swap the Greek yogurt and buttermilk with coconut yogurt and a plant-based milk with a splash of vinegar. For nut-free, just avoid any nut-based milk alternatives. The flavor will shift slightly but still taste fresh and creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Basil Dressing Recipe is one of those gems I keep coming back to because it really transforms a meal from ordinary to memorable in minutes. I love sharing it with friends because it’s easy, fresh, and somehow feels indulgent without being heavy. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe on speed dial — your salads and snacks will thank you!
PrintCreamy Basil Dressing Recipe
This creamy basil dressing is a fresh and flavorful sauce perfect for salads, sandwiches, or as a dip. Combining Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh herbs, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce, it delivers a smooth and tangy taste with a vibrant herbal aroma. Quick to prepare, this dressing adds a delicious homemade touch to your dishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 batch (approximately 1 ½ cups)
- Category: Dressing
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Plain Greek Yogurt
- 1/3 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 Tablespoons Buttermilk
- 1 cup Fresh Basil
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley
- 2 teaspoons Fresh Dill
- 1/4 cup Fresh Chives
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- Kosher Salt, to taste
- Black Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Measure out the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, buttermilk, and fresh herbs (basil, parsley, dill, chives). Gather the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Add to Blender: Place all ingredients into a high-powered blender such as a Blendtec. Ensure the herbs are fresh and washed, but dry to avoid watery dressing.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture on high speed until the dressing is smooth and creamy, with no visible herb chunks, about 30-60 seconds.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If the dressing is too thick, you may add a splash more buttermilk to reach desired consistency.
- Serve or Store: Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. This dressing can be stored for up to 3-4 days for best freshness.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs will change the taste and texture.
- Adjust thickness by adding more buttermilk if you prefer a thinner dressing.
- Worcestershire sauce adds umami and depth; omit if you want a vegetarian version.
- This dressing pairs well with mixed green salads, grilled vegetables, or as a spread for sandwiches.
- Keep refrigerated and consume within 4 days.
