Best 3 Creamy Basil Salad Dressing Recipes

Indulge in a symphony of flavors with our creamy basil salad dressing, an exquisite culinary creation that elevates any salad to a gourmet experience. This versatile dressing strikes a perfect balance between richness and freshness, boasting a luscious texture and a tantalizing herbacious aroma. Crafted with a harmonious blend of ingredients, including fresh basil, tangy lemon juice, nutty Parmesan cheese, and a hint of garlic, this dressing adds an irresistible touch of elegance to your favorite greens.

In this comprehensive guide, we present not one, but three variations of this delectable dressing, each offering a unique twist on the classic recipe. The first variation introduces a zesty kick with the addition of sun-dried tomatoes, while the second incorporates the subtle smokiness of roasted red peppers. For those seeking a creamy and tangy combination, the third variation combines goat cheese and balsamic vinegar, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.

Whether you're a seasoned salad enthusiast or just starting your culinary journey, this collection of creamy basil salad dressing recipes promises to transform your meals into extraordinary culinary experiences. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds and impress your dinner guests with these delectable creations.

Let's cook with our recipes!

BLT SALAD WITH CREAMY BASIL DRESSING

BLT Salad With Creamy Basil Dressing image

From Canadian Living magazine. All the flavours of a favourite sandwich tossed together on a plate makes this just as popular when it's a salad.

Provided by Boomette

Categories Salad Dressings

Time 18m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

8 slices bacon, chopped
1/2 baguette
2 garlic cloves, halved
2 tomatoes
1 avocado
6 cups romaine lettuce, torn
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup light mayonnaise
2 teaspoons sherry wine vinegar or 2 teaspoons wine vinegar
1 pinch salt
1 pinch pepper

Steps:

Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together basil, yogurt, mayonnaise, vinegar, salt and pepper. Set aside.
In a skillet, cook bacon over medium-high heat for about 7 minutes or until crisp. Drain on paper towels.
Meanwhile, cut baguette diagonally into 12 slices. Broil on a baking sheet, turning once, for about 1 minute or until golden. Rub both sides with cut sides of garlic. Arrange in serving basket.
Cut tomatoes into 1/2 inch thick wedges. Peel, pit and cut avocado into 1/2 inch cubes.
In a large bowl, toss together lettuce, onion and half of the dressing; arrange on large plates. Top with tomatoes and avocado; spoon remaining dressing over top. Sprinkle with bacon. Serve with garlic toasts.

CREAMY BASIL SALAD DRESSING

Creamy Basil Salad Dressing image

This recipe comes from Gourmet Magazine, September 2002 and is a wonderful and fresh tasting dressing.

Provided by Juenessa

Categories Salad Dressings

Time 10m

Yield 1/2 cup

Number Of Ingredients 7

Ingredients

1 cup loosely packed fresh basil
1 1/2 tablespoons chopped shallots
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Steps:

Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth.
Gourmet Magazine's notes:
• Use dressing on mixed greens or sliced tomatoes or for chicken salad.
• Dressing keeps, covered and chilled, 1 day.

PICANTE JíCAMA AND ROASTED CARROT SALAD WITH CREAMY BASIL DRESSING

Picante Jícama and Roasted Carrot Salad with Creamy Basil Dressing image

Provided by Jesus Gonzalez

Categories Citrus Fruit Nut Vegetable Roast Vegetarian Basil Carrot Healthy

Yield Makes 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

nonstick cooking spray
16 small carrots, trimmed, or 8 large carrots, peeled and cut into 3-inch pieces
1/2 cup (2 1/2 ounces) pine nuts
1 small jicama*, peeled and cut into 1/8-inch matchsticks (about 1 1/3 cups)
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice (from about 1 medium lemon or 2 medium limes)
2 teaspoons mild chile powder
1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
4 cups mixed baby greens
8 leaves Belgian endive, radicchio, or red leaf lettuce (from 1 head)
8 orange slices, peeled and seeded
4 fresh figs, sliced in half (optional)
1/4 cup creamy basil dressing
*Use a paring knife, rather than a peeler, to peel the jicama, and be sure to remove the tough, fibrous flesh just below the skin.

Steps:

Preheat oven to 350° F. Spray large rimmed baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Spread carrots on sheet, then very lightly spray carrots. Roast until tender, 30 to 40 minutes. Let cool.
In dry skillet over moderate heat, toast pine nuts, stirring constantly, until fragrant and light golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Immediately transfer to plate and let cool.
In small bowl, toss jicama with lemon or lime juice, chile powder, and cayenne, if using.
To serve, divide mixed baby greens among 4 salad plates and top each with 4 carrots. Mound 1/3 cup jicama atop each portion. Sprinkle each salad with 2 tablespoons pine nuts and garnish each plate with 2 endive, radicchio, or red-leaf lettuce leaves; 2 orange slices; and 2 fig halves, if using. Drizzle 1 tablespoon basil dressing over each salad and serve immediately.

Tips:

For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
If you don't have fresh basil, you can use 1/4 cup dried basil.
To make a vegan version of this dressing, use olive oil instead of butter and omit the Parmesan cheese.
This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Serve this dressing over your favorite salad greens, grilled vegetables, or pasta.

Conclusion:

This creamy basil salad dressing is a delicious and versatile dressing that can be used on a variety of dishes. It's easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. With its creamy texture, fresh basil flavor, and nutty Parmesan cheese, this dressing is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. So next time you're looking for a new salad dressing, give this creamy basil salad dressing a try!