Dinner

Easy Garlic Dressing Recipe

ByMariam Harutyunyan December 24, 2025December 24, 2025

Introduction

This easy garlic dressing is a vibrant and creamy addition to salads, grilled veggies, or as a flavorful dip. Made with fresh garlic, tangy lemon, and Parmesan, it brightens any dish with minimal effort.

A clear glass bowl filled with creamy light yellow garlic dressing speckled with small herbs and spices, a silver spoon lifting some of the dressing showing its smooth, slightly thick texture. Surrounding the bowl on a white marbled surface are two garlic bulbs, garlic cloves, a halved lemon with bright yellow flesh, fresh green parsley leaves, and a white cloth napkin with black dots and stripes. In the top left corner, part of a white bowl with leafy green salad and cherry tomatoes is visible. A woman's hand holds the spoon lifting the dressing. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 fat cloves garlic
2 tablespoons mayonnaise

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 lemon

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/3 cup olive oil

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan
Salt and fresh cracked pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Mince the garlic finely and sprinkle with a bit of coarse salt. Use the back of your knife to smash the garlic into a paste by pressing the knife into the garlic and dragging it towards you repeatedly until soft and smooth.
Step 2: In a small mixing bowl, combine the garlic paste, mayonnaise, and red wine vinegar. Squeeze the lemon juice into the bowl and add the Dijon mustard. Whisk well to combine.
Step 3: Add the olive oil, dried oregano, and grated Parmesan to the bowl. Whisk again until the dressing is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Taste and season with salt and fresh cracked pepper. Adjust the flavor by adding more olive oil to mellow the tang, or more lemon juice or vinegar to boost the acidity.

Tips & Variations

For a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic cloves before smashing them into a paste.
Use fresh oregano instead of dried for a brighter herbal note.

Add a splash of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version with extra creaminess.

Storage

Store the garlic dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir well before each use. It can be served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.

How to Serve

A clear glass jar is filled to the top with a pale yellow sauce that has small green and red spice flakes mixed in, giving it a slightly textured look. The jar sits on a round wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. Around the jar, there are three whole garlic bulbs with white papery skins, a lemon cut in half showing its bright yellow, juicy inside along with a whole lemon, light tan ginger root pieces, and fresh green parsley leaves. A blurred bowl of green salad with red tomatoes and purple radishes is visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, this garlic dressing tastes even better after a few hours when the flavors have melded. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated.

Is this dressing suitable as a marinade?

Yes, it works well as a marinade for chicken, vegetables, or tofu, imparting a robust garlic and herb flavor. Marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking.