10 tasty salad dressing recipes to turn a good salad into an unforgettable one

Homemade dressings make all the difference. With these KitchenAid tools you’ll whip them up in no time.

Making a dressing from scratch is easier than you might think, especially if you plug in the right tools. These KitchenAid devices are made to chop, mix or emulsify your dressing ingredients quickly and properly. You’ll whip up a homemade creamy ranch or a tangy vinaigrette in a matter of seconds.

Food processor - your go-to for bigger batches

This powerhouse comes with an array of different blades. Herbs, garlic, nuts… there’s not a dressing ingredient it can’t chop or puree. Dressings turn out perfectly smooth and creamy, while vinaigrettes are thoroughly emulsified. And with a bowl of that size, it’s ideal to make a big batch of your favourite dressing at once.

Food chopper - great for small portions

It’s compact, versatile and so easy to use. With a single push on the button, you’ll chop and mix herbs, shallots and every other ingredient your dressing needs. This one deserves a permanent spot on your counter. It’s perfect for everyday use.

Hand blender - ideal for quick, on-the-spot blending jobs

Going for light and smooth or thick and creamy? Either way, your dressing will turn out just the way you want it if you pull out your Hand Blender. No need for an extra mixing bowl, just stick your blender straight into the bowl, jar or pot you're serving your dressing in and start blending. Dressing for one? Coming right up.

Blender - fit to make the smoothest dressings

The silkiest dressing is just a quick blend away. With its powerful motor and sharp blades your Blender smooths out even the toughest ingredients.

10 salad dressings that bring out the best in your salad

Dressings have a way of pulling everything together. They add so much depth and complexity to your salad. So plug in your KitchenAid blender and magic up the smoothest dressings and the most thoroughly emulsified vinaigrettes in no time.

1. Caesar salad dressing recipe

Does this classic really need an introduction? That velvety texture, those bold flavours… it just works with the crispness of fresh lettuce.

2. Pesto salad dressing

So little work, so much flavour. This traditional pesto with toasted pine nuts, fragrant basil, and Parmesan cheese takes a simple green salad from ‘meh’ to ‘wow’ in a drizzle.

3. Thai salad dressing

Ever raced the bustling streets of Bangkok in a tuk tuk? That’s how this dressing tastes. Galangal, lemongrass, coconut milk, peanut… all of Thailand’s key flavours feature. Toss it over salads and noodle bowls or serve it with some fresh spring rolls as a dip.

4. Simple vinaigrette recipe

Looking for a quick and easy vinaigrette to drip all over your crisp garden salad? You’ve found it. Added bonus? This flavourful allrounder doubles as a meat marinade and sandwich sauce too.

5. Lime tahini dressing

When you blend the earthy flavour of tahini with the subtle sweetness of honey, it’s nothing short of fireworks. A splash of this creamy, yet tangy dressing ups the ante for practically any salad and grain bowl.

6. Mango dressing

Five minutes. That’s all it takes to put this exotic mixture together. It doesn’t just jazz up your salad with tropical flavour, but with a splash of colour too.

7. Carrot dressing

Is that noodle salad you’re serving? Give it some extra punch with this Asian dressing. It gets its subtle kick from the ginger and an orange glow from the carrots. Go ahead, dip your dumplings in it too.

8. Raspberry vinaigrette recipe

A bit sweet, a bit tart and plenty of pink. This fruity vinaigrette brightens up anything from a simple mixed greens mélange to a watermelon salad with cucumber and feta.

9. Avocado coriander lime dressing

Creamy avocado, zesty lime, and fresh coriander give this dressing a peppy green colour. Spritz it all over your Mexican salad or spoon some over your taco, wrap or Buddha bowl.

10. Cilantro garlic sauce

This flashy herbal sauce tastes as tantalising as it looks. It heats up just about any salad, but it’s equally delicious sprinkled on grilled fish or meat.

Found your dressing, but still in doubt about your salad? Have a look at these 12 delicious salads for some fresh inspiration.