Blue Cheese Salad Dressing

Blue Cheese Salad Dressing Recipe from USA with Cream, Milk, Mayo, Cheese, and Onion

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

The Blue Cheese Salad Dressing is a creamy, tangy, and utterly delicious addition to any salad. This recipe combines the rich flavors of blue cheese with the smoothness of sour cream and mayo, balanced with a hint of onion powder for an extra kick. Perfect for those who appreciate a gourmet touch to their meals, this dressing transforms ordinary greens into a delightful dish.

History

The origins of blue cheese dressing trace back to the early 20th century, with various stories claiming its invention. Some say it was first prepared in France, where blue cheese was a staple, while others believe it was an American innovation, created as a unique way to enjoy salads. Regardless of its origins, blue cheese dressing has become a beloved condiment worldwide, celebrated for its bold flavor.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of sour cream
0.5 cup of milk
1 cup of Kraft mayo
4 oz (113 g) of blue cheese, crumbled
0.13 tsp of onion powder

How to prepare

Using an electric mixer, combine all the ingredients until they are smooth.
Cover the mixture tightly and refrigerate it.
Make sure to use it within 10 days.

Variations

For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and use low-fat milk. Add garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce for an extra flavor dimension. For a spicier kick, a dash of hot sauce can be mixed in.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, use high-quality blue cheese and allow it to come to room temperature before mixing. This makes it easier to crumble and blend into the dressing. If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve some of the cheese to stir in after blending. For a thinner consistency, adjust the amount of milk to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

This dressing pairs wonderfully with crisp iceberg lettuce, romaine, or a mixed green salad. It's also excellent as a dip for fresh vegetables or buffalo wings.

Cooking Techniques

No cooking is required for this recipe, but thorough mixing is crucial. An electric mixer ensures a smooth, well-combined dressing, but a whisk and some elbow grease can work just as well.

Ingredient Substitutions

If blue cheese is too strong for your taste, feta or gorgonzola can be used as milder alternatives. For a dairy-free version, use vegan mayo, sour cream, and a dairy-free milk alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

This dressing benefits from being made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld. It can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the dressing in a small pitcher or bowl, garnished with additional crumbled blue cheese on top. A sprig of fresh parsley or dill can add a touch of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This dressing is versatile and pairs well with robust salads featuring ingredients like bacon, avocado, or hard-boiled eggs. It's also a great complement to grilled meats and vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. As this dressing is best served chilled, reheating is not necessary or recommended.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Blue Cheese Salad Dressing contains approximately 250 calories, making it a calorie-dense option. Moderation is key when adding it to your meals.

Carbohydrates

This Blue Cheese Salad Dressing is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the milk and sour cream. Each serving contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The dressing is rich in fats due to the blue cheese, sour cream, and mayo. Each serving contains about 22 grams of fat, with a significant portion being saturated fat from the dairy ingredients.

Proteins

Protein content in this dressing comes mainly from the blue cheese, providing about 6 grams of protein per serving. This makes it a good source of protein for a condiment.

Vitamins and minerals

Blue cheese is a good source of calcium and phosphorus, important for bone health. The dressing also contains small amounts of vitamin A and vitamin D, contributed by the dairy ingredients.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy products (sour cream, milk, and blue cheese), which are common allergens. Those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance should avoid this dressing.

Summary

Overall, the Blue Cheese Salad Dressing is a flavorful, high-fat, and moderate-protein option with low carbohydrates. It's rich in certain vitamins and minerals but should be consumed in moderation due to its high calorie and saturated fat content.

Summary

The Blue Cheese Salad Dressing is a classic, flavorful condiment that adds a gourmet touch to any salad. With its rich, tangy taste and creamy texture, it's a favorite among blue cheese lovers. By following the simple recipe and tips provided, you can create a delicious dressing that will elevate your meals to the next level.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Clara for a backyard barbecue. As we chatted and laughed, I couldn't help but notice the delicious scent of grilled meat wafting through the air. But what really caught my attention was the salad that Clara had prepared.

As I took my first bite, I was blown away by the burst of flavors in my mouth. The crisp greens, the juicy tomatoes, and the crunchy croutons all melded together perfectly. But what really stood out was the creamy blue cheese dressing that coated every leaf of lettuce. It was tangy, savory, and oh so delicious. I had never tasted anything like it before.

I knew I had to get my hands on that recipe. So, I asked Clara where she had learned to make such a delectable dressing. She smiled and told me that it was a family recipe that had been passed down through generations. She then graciously agreed to share it with me.

As soon as I got home, I dug out my trusty recipe binder and jotted down the ingredients and instructions for the blue cheese dressing. I was determined to recreate the magical taste that had captivated my taste buds earlier that day.

The next day, I set to work in my kitchen, gathering all the necessary ingredients. I crumbled the pungent blue cheese, whisked in the tangy vinegar, and drizzled in the smooth olive oil. I seasoned the mixture with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper, tasting as I went along to make sure the flavors were just right.

After a few adjustments here and there, I finally achieved the perfect balance of creaminess and tanginess. I poured the dressing over a bowl of fresh salad greens and tossed everything together. The final result was just as delicious as I remembered from Clara's barbecue.

From that day on, blue cheese salad dressing became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family dinners, potlucks with friends, and even for special occasions like holidays and birthdays. It was always a hit, and people would constantly ask me for the recipe.

As the years went by, I continued to perfect the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my own taste preferences. I experimented with different types of blue cheese, various vinegars, and even added a hint of honey for a touch of sweetness. Each variation was a success, but the original recipe remained my favorite.

I shared the recipe with my own children, who have now grown up and passed it on to their own families. It warms my heart to see them carry on the tradition of making this beloved blue cheese dressing. And I know that as long as they continue to make it, a piece of me will always be present at their dinner tables.

So, the next time you find yourself craving a delicious salad dressing that is sure to impress, give this blue cheese recipe a try. It may just become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine.