Sweet-Tangy Homemade Dressing

This sweet and tangy dressing recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, bringing the perfect balance of flavors to transform any ordinary salad into something special. The combination of sugar, vinegar, and ketchup creates that nostalgic homemade taste that store-bought dressings simply cannot replicate.

I first made this dressing when I was just learning to cook alongside my mother. The simplicity amazed me then and continues to be my go-to solution whenever I need to quickly elevate a simple plate of greens.

Ingredients

• Grapeseed or vegetable oil: Creates the smooth base without overpowering other flavors
• Granulated sugar: Provides the signature sweetness that balances the acidity
• White vinegar: Adds the perfect tangy brightness
• Ketchup: Brings depth and subtle tomato flavor plus natural thickening
• Dried minced onion: Infuses savory notes without the harsh bite of fresh onion
• Salt: Enhances all other flavors and balances the sweetness

How To Make Mom's Salad Dressing

Gather Your Ingredients:

Measure all ingredients precisely and have them ready at room temperature for the best blending results

Combine Everything:

Pour the oil, sugar, vinegar, ketchup, dried onion, and salt into a jar with a tight-fitting lid, making sure to add the sugar before the liquids to prevent it from sticking to the bottom

Shake Vigorously:

Secure the lid tightly and shake the jar continuously for about 30 seconds until the mixture becomes uniform and the sugar begins to dissolve completely

Rest and Shake Again:

Let the mixture sit for about a minute, then give it another good shake to ensure the sugar has fully dissolved and ingredients are thoroughly incorporated

The dried minced onion is truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. Unlike fresh onion, it softens in the dressing over time, creating tiny bursts of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. My grandmother would always add a bit extra, claiming it was what made her version special.

Make It Your Own

This dressing welcomes personalization based on your preferences. For a more robust flavor profile, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a dash of garlic powder. If you prefer less sweetness, simply reduce the sugar gradually until you reach your desired taste. The beauty of homemade dressing is that you control every aspect of the flavor.

Storage Solutions

After making your dressing, transfer it to a glass bottle or jar with an airtight seal. The dressing will naturally separate while sitting in the refrigerator, which is completely normal and expected. Before each use, give the container a thorough shake to recombine the ingredients. This dressing maintains its quality for up to two weeks when properly refrigerated, making it perfect for meal prep and weekly salad planning.

Pin it

Serving Suggestions

While this dressing shines on simple green salads, it has remarkable versatility. Try it drizzled over sliced tomatoes and cucumbers for a quick side dish or use it to dress a pasta salad with bell peppers, carrots, and celery. It also makes an excellent dipping sauce for raw vegetables on appetizer platters. My family particularly enjoys it on a salad of iceberg lettuce, red onions, and seasonal fresh fruit for a sweet and savory combination.

Pin it

The History Behind The Recipe

This dressing recipe emerged during the mid-20th century when convenience foods were becoming popular in American kitchens. Using ketchup as an ingredient was innovative at the time, creating a perfect balance between homemade and streamlined cooking. Many variations exist across different regions and families, but this particular recipe has remained unchanged in our family for over sixty years. Its enduring popularity speaks to the perfect balance of flavors that appeal to multiple generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent the dressing from separating?

If the dressing separates during storage, simply shake it vigorously in the jar or stir well with a spoon to re-emulsify the ingredients before serving.

→ Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?

Yes! Swap grapeseed oil for avocado or olive oil for a different flavor. For a lower sugar option, try a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

→ How long does the dressing last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, the dressing typically keeps for up to a week in the refrigerator. Just stir or shake well before using.

→ What salads pair well with this dressing?

This sweet-tangy dressing complements fresh leafy greens, shredded cabbage, spinach salads, or even roasted vegetable bowls beautifully.

→ Can I use fresh onion instead of dried minced onion?

Yes, finely chop fresh onion and use it sparingly. Fresh onion has a stronger flavor, so adjust to taste.