Sweet, tangy, and full of Southern charm, this homemade Vidalia Onion Salad Dressing is proof that the best dressings come from your own kitchen. Made with just a few simple ingredients — sugar, vinegar, and the naturally sweet flavor of Vidalia onions — this dressing is delicious served warm over crisp greens or chilled as a zesty vinaigrette. It’s the kind of recipe that’s been passed around Southern kitchens for generations, always greeted with smiles and second helpings. Once you taste it, you’ll never reach for the bottled kind again.
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon celery seed
1 large Vidalia onion, grated
3/4 cup vinegar
2 tablespoons oil
METHOD:
In a small saucepan, whisk together the sugar, salt, dry mustard, and celery seed. Add the grated onion, vinegar, and oil, stirring to combine.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar has completely dissolved and the dressing is smooth — about 3–5 minutes. Do not boil.
Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Transfer the dressing to a clean glass jar or airtight container. Refrigerate until ready to use.
This dressing can be served warm over slightly wilted lettuce or chilled as a sweet-tart vinaigrette for salads.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
Summer Favorite: Toss with spinach, strawberries, and toasted pecans for a bright, seasonal salad.
Savory Twist: Use as a glaze for grilled chicken or roasted vegetables — especially carrots or Brussels sprouts.
Marinade: Try it as a quick marinade for pork chops or shrimp before grilling.
YIELD: About 2 cups
