Description
A classic, creamy, and tangy homemade Thousand Island dressing recipe that's incredibly easy to make and tastes far superior to store-bought versions. Perfect for salads, sandwiches, and as a versatile dip.
Ingredients
1 cup Mayonnaise (good quality, full-fat)
1/4 cup Ketchup
2 tbsp Chili sauce (like Heinz Chili Sauce)
2 tbsp Sweet pickle relish (finely chopped)
1 tbsp White vinegar or lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp Onion powder
1/4 tsp Garlic powder
Pinch of paprika (optional, for color)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, chili sauce, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar (or lemon juice), and Dijon mustard.
Step 2: Add the onion powder, garlic powder, and an optional pinch of paprika to the bowl.
Step 3: Using a whisk or spatula, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined and smooth. Ensure there are no lumps and the color is consistent throughout the homemade thousand island dressing.
Step 4: Taste the dressing and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. You may also adjust the sweetness with a tiny pinch of sugar if desired, or add more vinegar/lemon juice for extra tang.
Step 5: For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the thousand island dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for achieving that authentic, rich taste.
Step 6: Serve chilled as a salad dressing, sandwich spread, or dip. Store leftover homemade thousand island dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Notes
For an even smoother dressing, you can lightly blend the ingredients with an immersion blender. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to prevent separation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauces Dressings & Condiments
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp (30g)
- Calories: 185 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg