Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe

This delightful and velvety poppy seed dressing is ideal for refreshing spring and summer salads, including a scrumptious strawberry avocado spinach salad! The taste far surpasses anything store-bought, and the addition of Greek yogurt makes it a lighter, tangy alternative.

If you relish creamy salad dressings, be sure to check out my creamy balsamic dressing too!

Why You’ll Adore Homemade Poppy Seed Dressing

Simple to Prepare – You don’t need any extravagant ingredients or intricate tools for this homemade dressing. It can be whipped up in just about 5 minutes!

Healthier Option – Many creamy dressings found in stores are packed with oils and preservatives. This version uses mainly plain Greek yogurt and a touch of mayonnaise for added richness without the added calories.

Versatile Use – Not only is this dressing fabulous on salads, but it also makes an excellent dip. I particularly enjoy it with my everything bagel chicken tenders!

Ingredient Notes

Greek Yogurt – Plain Greek yogurt serves as the base for this salad dressing. It adds protein while lowering the calories and fat content. You may select any fat content, but I suggest using low fat or whole milk Greek yogurt.

Mayonnaise – Opt for a high-quality mayonnaise for the best results. Some brands add sugar, which can alter the taste. I prefer an avocado oil mayonnaise with minimal ingredients, much like you’d make at home.

Milk – This ingredient is used to thin the dressing. Water can be used as an alternative.

Apple Cider Vinegar – To balance the sweetness of the dressing, apple cider vinegar is essential. If it’s unavailable, white vinegar works too.

Honey – This is the natural sweetener for the dressing. Maple syrup is also a suitable substitute.

Poppy Seeds – The star ingredient of this dressing! Make sure to use fresh poppy seeds.

Onion Powder – A small amount of onion powder provides that onion flavor without the strong bite of raw onion.

Salt – Salt is vital for balancing and highlighting all the flavors, with the quantity dependent on your preferences.

Tips for the Best Poppy Seed Dressing

• Utilize whole milk or low fat Greek yogurt for the richest and creamiest consistency.
• Choose a high-quality mayonnaise, such as Chosen Foods Avocado Oil Mayo.
• Ensure your poppy seeds are fresh; they can spoil due to their high oil content. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to six months, or refrigerate to prolong freshness.
• Don’t skip the vinegar! The apple cider vinegar is crucial for balancing the sweetness in the dressing; without it, the flavor can become monotonous and overly sweet.

Substitutions and Variations

• If you don’t have honey or maple syrup on hand, an equal amount of granulated sugar can work.
• You can add a pinch of dry mustard powder or garlic powder instead of onion powder for a different flavor.
• For a creamier dressing, use whole milk Greek yogurt and substitute half-and-half for the milk or water.

Storage

Keep the Greek yogurt poppy seed dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. I recommend using a glass jar with a lid for storage.

If any separation occurs, just give the dressing a shake or a stir before using.

More Salad Dressing Recipes

If you enjoy creamy salad dressings, don’t miss my healthy ranch dressing! For a twist on that classic, try my avocado ranch dressing. Both dressings double as great dipping sauces for buffalo chicken skewers or baked buffalo chicken tenders.

If you’ve never created your own Caesar dressing, today’s the day! Check out my egg and anchovy-free homemade Caesar dressing; it pairs perfectly with Caesar salad and grilled chicken Caesar salad.

Did you whip up this creamy poppy seed dressing? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Please leave a recipe rating and review below.

Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
• 3 tablespoons milk or water
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl or jar. Whisk until smooth, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Store the dressing in a jar or other airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. Stir as necessary before each use.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 71 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Fat: 4 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Sodium: 35 mg
• Potassium: 19 mg
• Fiber: 0.3 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Vitamin A: 19 IU
• Calcium: 56 mg

Nutrition data is automatically calculated and should only serve as a rough estimate.

More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:

• Chicken Wonton Tacos
• Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken Kebabs
• Savory Burrata & Roasted Tomato Toast
• Easy Seafood Casserole

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This creamy poppy seed dressing combines Greek yogurt and fresh ingredients to create a deliciously tangy sauce that elevates your salads. It’s a quick and healthy choice for any meal and doubles as a tasty dip.

• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
• 3 tablespoons milk or water
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

• Combine all ingredients in a bowl or jar.
• Whisk until smooth, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days.

Notes

Use low fat or whole milk Greek yogurt for best results.
Choose a high-quality mayonnaise for optimal flavor.
Shake or stir before using if the dressing separates.

• Author: jesseca
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Dressing
• Method: No-cook
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 71
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 35 mg
• Fat: 4 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: N/A
• Trans Fat: N/A
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 0.3 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: N/A