Smooth, tangy, and endlessly versatile, this Creamy Avocado Dressing adds a burst of fresh flavor to salads, grain bowls, grilled vegetables, or sandwiches. Ripe avocados provide natural creaminess and richness without the need for mayonnaise or heavy oil, while lemon juice and garlic give it a lively, balanced finish. With a few simple tweaks, you can transform this base into a fresh herb dressing, a zesty Southwestern version, or even a ranch-style favorite — perfect for everyday meals or entertaining.
INGREDIENTS:
1 ripe avocado
6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
6 tablespoons sour cream or yogurt (unsweetened Greek or plain yogurt)
4 tablespoons lemon juice
1-2 garlic cloves, minced
6-8 tablespoons water, or as needed to thin
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
METHOD:
Place the avocado, olive oil, sour cream or yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Process until smooth and creamy.
Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and continue blending until the dressing reaches your desired consistency — thicker for dips or spreads, thinner for salads.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon juice for brightness or a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
Transfer to a glass jar or airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
VARIATIONS:
Fresh Herb Dressing: Stir in ½ cup finely minced herbs such as parsley, cilantro, chives, or dill.
Southwestern Style: Replace lemon juice with lime juice and stir in1/3 cup cilantro, 3 tablespoons minced red onion, and ½ teaspoon toasted cumin powder.
Ranch Style: Add ½ teaspoon each of dried dill, parsley, chives, onion powder, and garlic powder, plus 1 teaspoon sugar.
Greek Style: Add 1 tablespoon extra lemon juice and 2 teaspoons dried oregano.
Italian Style: Blend a small handful of fresh basil with the dressing and stir in 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs.
YIELD: About 1 1/2 cups
