5 from 1 vote
Home » Recipes » Basics » Homemade Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing with Mayonnaise

Homemade Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing with Mayonnaise

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If you’ve ever found yourself craving a salad that’s a little more exciting, you’re in for a treat with this creamy poppy seed dressing! It’s the kind of dressing that enhances your greens and can drench all your favorite bowls of goodness in a delightful burst of flavor. 

Poppy Seed Dressing in a glass bottle with a bowl of Poppy Seeds and a plate of salad on the background.

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With a simple blend of mayonnaise, poppy seeds, and a touch of sweetness, this homemade poppy seed dressing is perfect for tossing with fresh veggies or drizzling over fruit salads. It’s quick to make and adds a homemade touch that store-bought dressings can’t compete with. Get ready to elevate your salad game!

If you are on the hunt for more salad recipes, I have a few more you might want to try out. For another creamy recipe, make this classic macaroni Hawaiian salad. Or check out this selection of healthy salad ideas that are great for meal prep.

Still in the mood for more seed recipes? Try this chia seed pudding with blueberry compote for a healthy breakfast idea.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Versatile Use: This creamy poppy seed dressing pairs beautifully with a variety of salads, making it a perfect addition to both vegetable and fruit dishes.
  • Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and a simple preparation process, you can whip up this yummy dressing in no time, saving you both effort and kitchen clean-up.
  • Homemade Goodness: Unlike store-bought options, this recipe allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a fresher taste and avoiding preservatives.
  • Burst of Flavor: The unique combination of mayonnaise, poppy seeds, and a hint of sweetness creates a delectable dressing that enhances the taste of any dish.

What’s in This Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe? 

Ingredients for Poppy Seed Dressing sitting on a white countertop.
  • Vegetable Oil: A key ingredient that serves as the base of the dressing, vegetable oil adds richness and helps to blend the other ingredients smoothly. It provides a neutral flavor that allows the other ingredients to shine without overpowering them.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: This tangy vinegar contributes acidity that balances the creaminess of mayonnaise and enhances the overall flavor profile. Additionally, apple cider vinegar is known for its potential health benefits, including aiding digestion and providing antioxidants.
  • Mayonnaise: Creamy and indulgent, mayonnaise forms the heart of this creamy dressing, providing a luscious texture. Made primarily from eggs and oil, it adds a delightful richness that elevates the taste of salads and other dishes.
  • Dijon Mustard: With its sharp and tangy notes, Dijon mustard adds a perfect balance to the dressing, helping to cut through the richness of the mayonnaise. It also acts as an emulsifier, helping to blend the oil and vinegar for a smoother consistency.
  • White Granulated Sugar: Sugar’s sweetness helps to balance the dressing’s acidity and spice, making it more palatable. It enhances the overall flavor, complementing the other ingredients without making the dressing overly sweet.
  • Poppy Seeds: These tiny black seeds add a delightful crunch and visual appeal, elevating the dressing’s texture. Poppy seeds are also packed with nutrients, including healthy fats and minerals, making this dressing both tasty and nutritious.
  • Dried Minced Onion: Dried minced onion brings a hint of savory flavor, enhancing the dressing’s taste profile without the added moisture of fresh onions. It provides that unmistakable onion flavor essential for many dressings, adding depth and character.
  • Salt and Ground Black Pepper: These basic seasonings amplify the dressing’s flavors by enhancing the taste of the other ingredients. Salt brings out inherent flavors, while black pepper adds a subtle warmth, creating a well-rounded, flavorful dressing.

A complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

Substitutions and Additions

  • Greek Yogurt: For a healthier twist, substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This adds creaminess while providing added protein and reducing calories.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: Swap out the white granulated sugar for honey or maple syrup for more natural sweetness and different flavors.
  • Different Vinegars: If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, try using white wine vinegar, white vinegar, or balsamic vinegar for a different acidity and taste.
  • Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, can add a vibrant freshness to the dressing. Simply chop and mix them in for an herbaceous twist.
  • Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to introduce a bright, zesty flavor that complements the sweetness of the poppy seeds.
  • Spices: Experiment with spices like paprika or garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor that can enhance the dressing even further.
  • Vegetable Oil: Experiment with different oils such as olive oil, avocado oil, or canola oil for a slightly different flavor profile

How to Make this Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing (step-by-step directions)

Collage of creating Poppy Seed Dressing.
  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and whisk until thoroughly mixed. (Photos 1, 2 & 3)
  2. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. I prefer using a mason jar or a similar container for storage. (Photo 4)
Glass jar of poppy seed dressing alongside greens, measuring spoons, and ingredients on a white surface.

Recipe Tips

  • Whisk Vigorously: Whisk the ingredients thoroughly to create a smooth, creamy texture. An electric mixer can also be used for an even fluffier dressing.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Taste the dressing as you mix, and adjust the sugar, honey, or maple syrup to suit your personal preference for sweetness.
  • Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, let the dressing chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh ingredients, especially if you’re adding herbs. Fresh herbs can significantly enhance the taste of your dressing.
  • Experiment with Ratios: Feel free to modify the ratios of the ingredients to personalize the dressing to your liking—more mustard for tang or more mayo for creaminess!

Storing Tips 

To keep your creamy poppy seed dressing fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. A mason jar or a tightly sealed plastic container works well. Properly stored, the dressing can last for up to two weeks. Giving it a good shake or stir before each use is important, as the ingredients may separate over time. 

Avoid freezing the dressing, as it does not thaw well and may change in texture and consistency. 

Serving Suggestions 

This creamy poppy seed dressing is incredibly versatile and can elevate different types of salads. It works wonderfully as a green salad dressing, providing a delightful burst of flavor to mixed leafy greens, fruit salads, or coleslaw. Beyond salads, consider using it as a dip for fresh vegetables or a spread on simple sandwiches and wraps, adding a new dimension to your favorite lunch options. 

It can also be drizzled over grilled chicken or fish for a tasty glaze, enhancing the protein with its rich, tangy notes. For a refreshing twist, try using it as a topping for roasted vegetables or grilled fruits, where the sweetness of the dressing pairs beautifully with the natural caramelization of the ingredients.

A glass bottle of Poppy Seed Dressing poured into a bowl of salad.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this poppy seed salad dressing vegan?  

Yes! You can use vegan mayonnaise or substitute with silken tofu blended until smooth. Additionally, replace the honey with maple syrup for a fully plant-based dressing.

What types of salads pair well with this poppyseed salad dressing?  

This creamy poppy seed dressing complements a variety of salads, including spinach or mixed green salads, fruit salads featuring berries or citrus, and even pasta salads.

Can I add fruits to the dressing?  

Absolutely! Pureed fresh fruit, such as mango or strawberries, can infuse the dressing with natural sweetness and flavor. Just blend them in with the other ingredients for a fruity twist.

How do I adjust the consistency if the dressing is too thick?  

If the dressing is too thick, simply whisk in a little water or additional vinegar until you reach your desired consistency. Start with a teaspoon at a time to avoid thinning it too much.

Is this dressing suitable for meal prepping?  

The creamy poppy seed dressing is perfect for meal prepping and can be made in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container and give it a good stir before serving.

Need More Spice and Seasoning Recipes? Try These:

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A glass bottle of Poppy Seed Dressing with a salad in the background.
5 from 1 vote

Homemade Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing with Mayonnaise


Author: Kim Schob
Course: Basics, Salad
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
If you’ve ever found yourself craving a salad that’s a little more exciting, you’re in for a treat with this creamy poppy seed dressing!

Ingredients 

Instructions

  • In a medium mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and whisk until thoroughly mixed.
    ½ Cup Vegetable Oil,¼ Cup Apple Cider Vinegar,2 Tablespoons Mayonnaise,1 ½ Tablespoons Dijon Mustard,1 Tablespoon White Granulated Sugar,1 Tablespoon Poppy Seeds,1 Tablespoon Dried Minced Onion,½ Teaspoon Salt,¼ Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
  • Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. I prefer using a mason jar or a similar container for storage.

Notes

  • Whisk Vigorously: Whisk the ingredients thoroughly to create a smooth, creamy texture. An electric mixer can also be used for an even fluffier dressing.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Taste the dressing as you mix, and adjust the sugar, honey, or maple syrup to suit your personal preference for sweetness.
  • Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, let the dressing chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh ingredients, especially if you’re adding herbs. Fresh herbs can significantly enhance the taste of your dressing.
  • Experiment with Ratios: Feel free to modify the ratios of the ingredients to personalize the dressing to your liking—more mustard for tang or more mayo for creaminess!

Want To Save This Recipe?

Enter your information below, and I’ll send it straight to your inbox! Plus, you’ll get complimentary gifts!

Save Recipe

Nutrition Information

Calories: 130kcal (7%) Carbohydrates: 2g (1%) Protein: 0.4g (1%) Fat: 13g (20%) Saturated Fat: 2g (13%) Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g Monounsaturated Fat: 3g Trans Fat: 0.1g Cholesterol: 1mg Sodium: 160mg (7%) Potassium: 22mg (1%) Fiber: 0.4g (2%) Sugar: 1g (1%) Vitamin A: 4IU Vitamin C: 0.2mg Vitamin D: 0.01µg Calcium: 18mg (2%) Iron: 0.2mg (1%)

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5 from 1 vote

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