Introduction
Russian dressing is a creamy, tangy sauce made with mayonnaise, ketchup, and a few flavorful seasonings. It’s perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as a dip. This version has a little kick and is easy to prepare, bringing richness and flavor to any dish.
Ingredients
For the Russian Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp horseradish (prepared, not fresh)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sweet pickle relish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and hot sauce (if using). Whisk together until smooth.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Stir in the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and sweet pickle relish. Mix well. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 3: Refrigerate
Cover the dressing and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Serve
Use the dressing as a spread for sandwiches, burgers, or as a dipping sauce for fries, onion rings, or grilled vegetables. It also works great on salads, especially for a Reuben sandwich or a classic chef salad.
Tips
- Customize the Heat: Add more or less hot sauce depending on your spice preference.
- Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing, add a teaspoon of honey or sugar.
- Storage: Keep the Russian dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Variations
- Spicy Russian Dressing: Add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
- Herb-Infused Russian Dressing: Stir in fresh dill, parsley, or chives for an herby twist.
- Smoky Russian Dressing: Use smoked paprika for a smoky depth of flavor.
- Vegan Russian Dressing: Use vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based version.
- Zesty Russian Dressing: Add a splash of lemon juice for an extra tangy, zesty flavor.
Best Pairings
- Sandwiches: Spread on a Reuben sandwich, turkey club, or grilled cheese for extra richness.
- Salads: Use as a dressing for a chef salad, Cobb salad, or wedge salad.
- Side Dishes: Serve with fries, grilled vegetables, or crispy onion rings for dipping.
Conclusion
This homemade Russian dressing is tangy, creamy, and slightly spicy, making it the perfect addition to sandwiches, salads, or as a dipping sauce. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a versatile and flavorful sauce that elevates any dish.
