From-Scratch Series: Ditch the Bottle — 3 Homemade Salad Dressings You’ll Actually Crave

Let’s be honest: most store-bought salad dressings are either too sweet, too gloopy, or filled with a laundry list of ingredients you can’t pronounce. That’s why today, in our From-Scratch series, we’re tossing the bottle and whisking up three easy, flavor-packed salad dressings that you can make right at home.

Not only are they fresher and more customizable, but you probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen.

And yes—there’s a video coming! Check out my Instagram Reel where I make all three.

🥗 Why Make Your Own Dressing?

• Better flavor: Fresh herbs, real garlic, and citrus beat preservatives every time.

• Control the ingredients: Ditch the added sugars, fillers, and mystery oils.

• Saves money: One bottle of good dressing costs what it takes to make several batches at home.

• Zero waste: Use up fresh herbs and pantry staples before they go bad.

1. Homemade Ranch

This is the creamy classic done right—cool, herby, and perfect for dipping or drizzling.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ cup milk or buttermilk

• 2 tsp fresh dill

• ½ tsp dried parsley

• ½ tsp dried chives

• ¼ tsp onion powder

• ¼ tsp garlic powder

• ¼ tsp salt

• ¼–½ tsp freshly cracked pepper

• Juice of ½ lemon (about 2 tsp)

Tip: Let it chill for at least 30 minutes—flavors deepen beautifully.

2. Balsamic Vinaigrette

A go-to for salads, grain bowls, or even roasted veggies. Tangy, balanced, and endlessly versatile.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup olive oil

• 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 Tbsp honey

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• ¼ tsp salt

• Freshly cracked pepper to taste

Tip: Shake it in a mason jar for the easiest, no-mess dressing ever.

3. Green Goddess

Vibrant, herb-packed, and naturally dairy-free. This one doubles as a dip or marinade.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup olive oil

• 2 Tbsp white balsamic vinegar

• Juice + zest of 1 lemon

• 1–3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tsp Dijon mustard

• ¼ cup green onions

• ¼ cup fresh basil

• ¼ cup fresh parsley

• 1 Tbsp honey

• Salt & pepper to taste

Tip: Blend it smooth in a food processor for that signature creamy texture.

Make It Your Own

Use these recipes as a base and tweak them to match your mood or what’s in your fridge. Swap herbs, play with vinegars, or adjust sweetness—homemade dressings are all about flexibility.

✨ Coming to life on Instagram! Watch how I whip up all three dressings in a quick, satisfying reel. Follow @491westmainst and tag me when you make them—I love seeing your from-scratch creations.