Easy Homemade Southwestern Salad Dressing
Discover a creamy, flavorful homemade Southwestern salad dressing that’s simple to make. Perfect for burrito bowls, salads, or tacos!
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Ready to shake up your salad routine? This creamy Southwestern salad dressing brings all the bold flavors you crave—zesty lime, smoky spices, and just the right amount of heat. Whether you’re drizzling it over a fresh salad, using it as a dip for veggies, or giving your tacos an extra kick, this dressing is the kind of versatile magic your kitchen needs. And the best part? It comes together in minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have!
This dressing isn’t just tasty—it’s a better-for-you choice, too. Made with Greek yogurt and olive oil, it’s lighter than most store-bought options while still delivering big on flavor. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll never go back to the bottled stuff.
What is Southwestern Salad Dressing?
Southwestern salad dressing is a creamy blend of tangy, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors inspired by the bold tastes of the American Southwest. It typically includes lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and paprika, giving it a signature kick that pairs perfectly with fresh greens, grilled meats, or roasted veggies.
What Makes This Salad Dressing Recipe Healthy?
Unlike many store-bought dressings loaded with unnecessary sugar and preservatives, this homemade version uses wholesome ingredients like Greek yogurt and olive oil. The Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a boost of protein, while olive oil brings healthy fats. It’s a flavorful way to stick to your healthy eating goals!
PRO TIP
Keep your salad dressings in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Mason jars work perfectly. Just give your dressing a good shake or stir before using, as homemade dressings thicken slightly when chilled.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Salad Dressing Recipe
- Healthier option: Packed with protein and made without artificial ingredients.
- Quick and simple: You can whip this up in just 5 minutes.
- Customizable: Adjust the spices and lime juice to match your taste.
- Multi-purpose: Great as a salad dressing, dip, or taco topping.
RELATED: Healthy Southwest Chopped Salad – Fresh and flavourful, this Southwest Chopped Salad is quick, easy, and delicious! It’s loaded with fresh veggies and a hearty drizzle of a creamy homemade Southwest Ranch dressing that your whole family will love!
Ingredients you’ll need to make this Homemade Southwestern Salad Dressing Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make about one cup of this dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
How to Make This Salad Dressing
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and olive oil until smooth.
- Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Stir until all the spices are fully incorporated.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning or lime juice to your liking.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week.
Make this Creamy Southwestern Salad Dressing, then check out my Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing, my Apple Cider Vinaigrette and more of my healthy salad dressing recipes.
Frequently asked questions about this Creamy Southwestern Salad Dressing Recipe
Read on for tips and substitution ideas on how to make this recipe, such as how to customize this salad, and how to store this salad.
Can I make this dressing dairy-free
Yes! Substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
Regular paprika works fine, though you’ll miss the smoky flavor.
Is Southwestern Salad Dressing spicy?
It’s mildly spicy, but you can skip the cayenne if you prefer no heat.
Can I use lemon juice instead of lime juice?
Lime juice is best for the Southwestern vibe, but lemon works in a pinch.
How to store leftovers of this salad dressing
Keep your dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. A mason jar works perfectly. Just give it a good shake or stir before using, as it may thicken slightly when chilled.
This creamy Southwestern salad dressing is a simple and flavorful way to add some spice to your meals. Whether you’re tossing it in a burrito bowl, drizzling it over grilled veggies, or spooning it onto tacos, this healthy, homemade recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try—it’s easy, delicious, and full of bold flavor
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Other Salad Dressing recipes to try
Creamy Southwestern Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and olive oil until smooth.
- Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir until fully combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
