When I first tasted Thousand Island dressing, it felt like discovering a secret sauce, one that was tangy and sweet, with just the right amount of creamy magic. It’s like that unexpected song on a playlist that you can’t help but replay. Whether you’re drizzling it over a crisp salad or using it as a dip for fries, this homemade version is a must-try—simple yet indulgent, a little messy but in the best way possible.
Steps
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients, which include mayonnaise, minced yellow onion, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, lemon juice, sweet paprika, and kosher salt.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of minced yellow onion, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, and 2 tablespoons of sweet pickle relish.
- Add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of sweet paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt to the mixture. Stir everything together until well blended.
- Once mixed, transfer the dressing to a jar with a secure lid. Store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld.
- For the best taste, allow the dressing to sit for 24 hours in the fridge before using. It will keep for about a week.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup minced yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1600 | Fat: 168g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Cholesterol: 96mg | Sodium: 2248mg | Carbohydrates: 24g | Dietary Fiber: 0g | Sugars: 16g | Protein: 0g | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 0mg | Potassium: 264mg
FAQ
- What is the origin of Thousand Island dressing?
- Thousand Island dressing is named after the Thousand Islands region in New York state, where it was first created.
- Can I substitute mayonnaise with another ingredient in this dressing?
- While some recipes use plain yogurt as a substitute for mayonnaise, it can interfere with the dressing’s intended sweetness. It’s generally recommended to stick with mayonnaise for a traditional taste.
- How can I modify the recipe if I don’t have sweet pickle relish?
- You can chop up dill pickles and add a little sugar to achieve a similar flavor if sweet pickle relish is unavailable.
- What are some alternative ingredients to spice up the dressing?
- To give the dressing a spicy twist, you can swap pickle relish for jalapeno relish, or use sweet chili sauce instead of ketchup.
- How long should the dressing be stored before use for best flavor?
- For a more developed and complex flavor, it’s best to let the dressing sit in the refrigerator for 24 hours before serving.
Tips
- For a more developed taste, prepare the dressing 24 hours in advance and let it sit in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to blend and the onions to soften.
- If you prefer a sweeter dressing, consider adding a bit more pickle relish to the mix.
- Experiment with ingredient swaps like using jalapeno relish for a spicier version or substituting sweet onions for a milder taste.
- While the dressing can be enjoyed immediately, allowing it to rest will enhance the overall flavor, making it perfect as a “secret sauce” for burgers or a spread for sandwiches.
Equipment
- Small mixing bowl
- Jar with a lid (for storing the dressing)
