Creamy Basil Dressing
LivFarms’ Creamy Basil Dressing is an aromatic blend that marries the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the sweet, peppery notes of fresh basil. The lemon juice adds are freshing citrus kick, enhancing the flavors of the basil; while the olive oil introduces a velvety richness that makes the dressing indulgently smooth. A hint of garlic provides a subtle heat and depth, making the dressing complex and memorable. This creamy dressing is particularly well-suited to the crunchy leaves of LivFarms’ Romaine lettuce, which can support the dressing's weight and complement its robust flavors. To build a salad that echoes the dressing's creamy and herbaceous character, consider adding ripe cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness, thinly sliced cucumbers for a crisp, clean contrast, and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds or crumbled feta cheese for a salty finish. This Creamy Basil Dressing transforms a simple salad into a refreshing main course.
Ingredients
- 1/2 Cup Greek Yogurt, plain
- 1/4 Cup Basil Leaves, fresh finely chopped
- 2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 Clove Garlic, minced
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine the plain Greek yogurt, fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Blend the ingredients until the basil is finely incorporated and the dressing is smooth.
- If the dressing is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
- Transfer the creamy basil dressing to a jar or dressing bottle.
- Refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Shake well before serving.
Notes
Basil is renowned for its sweet, aromatic flavor with hints of pepper and anise. In this dressing, fresh basil leaves are finely chopped, enhancing the overall creaminess and providing a burst of freshness. Basil pairs exceptionally well with the tangy Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and the richness of olive oil, creating a delightful and versatile dressing.
Nutritionally, basil is a good source of vitamins A and K, essential for vision, immune function, and bone health. It also provides small amounts of manganese, iron, calcium, and antioxidants. The compounds in basil, including flavonoids and volatile oils, contribute to its potential anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
In terms of health benefits, basil has been associated with stress reduction, anti-inflammatory effects, and potential cardiovascular benefits. The essential oils in basil, such as eugenol, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to overall wellbeing when incorporated into a balanced diet.
