How to Make Turkish Olive Oil and Garlic Dressing

If you're looking to elevate your salads and dishes with a burst of flavor, Turkish olive oil and garlic dressing is a perfect choice. This dressing not only enhances the taste of your meals but is also simple to prepare at home. Below, we’ll guide you through the steps to make this delectable dressing.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic

Start by peeling and mincing the garlic cloves. For a smoother texture, you can use a garlic press. The key is to ensure the garlic is finely minced to make its flavor more pronounced in the dressing.

2. Combine Ingredients

In a medium bowl, add the minced garlic, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and dried oregano (if using). Whisk the mixture until the mustard is thoroughly combined with the vinegar and garlic.

3. Add Olive Oil

Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while continuously whisking. This step is crucial as it helps to emulsify the dressing, ensuring a creamy and uniform texture.

4. Season and Adjust

Once the dressing is well combined, taste it. Add salt and pepper to your liking for seasoning. If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can add more vinegar, or if you want a richer taste, try adding extra olive oil.

5. Store the Dressing

Transfer the dressing to a glass jar with a lid and refrigerate. It’s best to let the flavors meld for at least 30 minutes before using. This dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to shake or stir before each use as ingredients may separate over time.

Serving Suggestions

This Turkish olive oil and garlic dressing is incredibly versatile. You can use it as a salad dressing over mixed greens, as a marinade for grilled vegetables or meat, or even drizzled over roasted potatoes. Its robust flavor complements a variety of dishes, making it a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire.

Conclusion

Making Turkish olive oil and garlic dressing at home is both easy and rewarding. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious dressing that enhances the flavor of many dishes. Enjoy experimenting with this dressing on different salads and entrees!