Cava Garlic Dressing Recipe

Salads don’t have to be boring, especially when you have a secret weapon like Cava Garlic Dressing. This delicious dressing brings a burst of flavor that can transform any dish into a gourmet experience.

Made with fresh garlic, tangy lemon juice, and a blend of aromatic herbs, this dressing is not only rich in taste but also very simple to prepare. Whether you’re a professional cook or just starting out, this recipe will soon be your favorite for turning everyday meals into something special.

Alright, we’ve talked enough about how great this dressing is, now let’s get to it and make it.

What Is Cava Garlic Dressing and Why Is It So Special?

Cava Garlic Dressing is a versatile and flavorful dressing that comes from Mediterranean-inspired culinary traditions. It combines the pungency of fresh garlic with the zest of lemon juice and creates a savory and vibrant profile that elevates a wide array of dishes.

The addition of hand-picked herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley adds earthy flavors, giving it more depth. Its special mix of ingredients makes it stand out from regular dressings which makes it a favorite for those who love bold flavors.

This dressing is not only perfect for drizzling over salads but also serves as an excellent marinade for meats and vegetables, boosting their natural flavors without being too strong.

Ingredients Needed for Cava Garlic Dressing

To make Cava Garlic Dressing, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of vinegar
• 1 teaspoon of honey
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Nutritional Information of this Garlic Dressing

Equipment Needed

To prepare the Cava Garlic Dressing, gather the following kitchen essentials:

• Blender or Immersion Blender
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Mixing Bowl
• Knife and Cutting Board
• Whisk or Spoon
• Storage Jar or Bottle

Recipe for Cava Garlic Dressing

Okay, we’ve talked enough about how great this dressing is, now let’s get to it and make it.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Make sure you have them measured and ready. This will make the process smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Take a blending tool, like a blender or hand blender, and add the minced garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Blend everything until the garlic is mixed in well and the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Oil

Next, slowly add the extra virgin olive oil to the blended mixture. If using a blender, blend on low speed while gradually pouring in the oil to help emulsify the dressing. This way, the dressing will be smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Season the Dressing

Once the mixture has been thoroughly blended, carefully mix in the dried oregano and thyme. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Adjust the seasoning as needed, ensuring a well-balanced flavor.

Step 5: Store the Dressing

Once you like the taste, put the Cava Garlic Dressing into a clean jar or bottle. Close it tightly and keep it in the fridge. If stored well, the dressing will last up to a week, so you can enjoy it with different meals.

Cava Garlic Dressing Recipe

Usman Malik

Cava Garlic Dressing is a versatile and flavorful addition to any kitchen, offering the perfect blend of tangy and garlicky goodness. It’s great for improving salads, marinating meats, and adding a kick to many dishes.

5 from 16 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Salad, Sauce

Cuisine American, Mediterranean

Servings 4

Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

• Blender or Immersion Blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Whisk or Spoon
• Storage Jar or Bottle

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves of garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon of vinegar
• 1 teaspoon of honey
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Start by gathering all your ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Make sure you have them measured and ready. This will make the process smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

• Take a blending tool, like a blender or hand blender, and add the minced garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Blend everything until the garlic is mixed in well and the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Oil

• Next, slowly add the extra virgin olive oil to the blended mixture. If using a blender, blend on low speed while gradually pouring in the oil to help emulsify the dressing. This way, the dressing will be smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Season the Dressing

• Once the mixture has been thoroughly blended, carefully mix in the dried oregano and thyme. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Adjust the seasoning as needed, ensuring a well-balanced flavor.

Step 5: Store the Dressing

• Once you like the taste, put the Cava Garlic Dressing into a clean jar or bottle. Close it tightly and keep it in the fridge. If stored well, the dressing will last up to a week, so you can enjoy it with different meals.

Notes

Make sure to finely mince the garlic so it blends in smoothly and spreads evenly throughout the dressing. As you blend on low speed, drizzle in the olive oil slowly to create a nice emulsion—it’ll give you a deliciously creamy dressing.

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Creative Ideas to Use Cava Garlic Dressing

If you want to make your meals better with Cava Garlic Dressing, here are some simple ideas:

• Salad Enhancer: Drizzle on a fresh garden salad to quickly add flavor, or mix with leafy greens like arugula or spinach for a tasty twist.
• Marinade for Proteins: Use it as a marinade for chicken, fish, or tofu. The acidity of the lemon and vinegar helps to tenderize proteins while infusing them with a delicious, garlicky taste.
• Vegetable Roast: Toss your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli in the dressing before roasting to add depth and flavor.
• Grain Bowls: Make your regular grain bowls more exciting by mixing Cava Garlic Dressing with quinoa, rice, or couscous for a tasty Mediterranean meal.
• Sandwich Spread: Spread a thin layer on your sandwiches or wraps to add a gourmet touch. It complements both veggie and meat options.
• Pasta Sauce: Use as a light and refreshing dressing for cold pasta salads which enhances the dish without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Seafood Pairing: Enjoy with a spicy angry crab seafood boil to bring out the natural sweetness of the seafood along with its tangy and tasty flavors.

Don’t forget to check out our other tasty dressing sauces that will make any dish better. Try the yummy “Killer Burger Peanut Butter Sauce” for a creamy, nutty flavor on your burgers and sandwiches. Also, check “Texas Roadhouse Peppercorn Sauce” for a bold, spicy kick that’s great with meats and grilled veggies.

Storage Suggestions

If you want your Cava Garlic Dressing to stay fresh and maintain its vibrant flavors, consider the following storage suggestions:

• Airtight Container: Use a clean glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid to store the dressing, preventing exposure to air and maintaining freshness.
• Refrigeration: Store the dressing in the refrigerator, which will help maintain its quality and preserve its flavors for up to a week.
• Shake Before Use: Ingredients may separate while sitting, so shake the container well before each use to mix everything and enjoy the best flavor.
• Avoid Freezing: Since the dressing contains olive oil, freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture and taste of the sauce.

Tips for Making Perfect Cava Garlic Dressing

Everyone wants their recipe to turn out perfect every time. Here are some tips to help you achieve that with your Cava Garlic Dressing:

• Minced Garlic Fineness: Make sure that the garlic is finely minced to blend smoothly and evenly distribute throughout the dressing.
• Emulsifying the Dressing: Add olive oil slowly while blending on low speed to properly emulsify, resulting in a well-combined and creamy dressing.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasonings, like salt and pepper, gradually to reach your desired flavor intensity.
• Herbal Variations: Test with different herbs like basil or rosemary, to tailor the dressing to your preferences or specific dishes.
• Use Quality Vinegar: Try different types of vinegar, like balsamic or red wine vinegar, for varying acidic notes that can complement different salads or proteins.
• Time for Marinating: Allow proteins or vegetables to marinate for at least 30 minutes to better absorb the dressing’s flavors before cooking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cava Garlic Dressing is a versatile and flavorful addition to any kitchen, offering the perfect blend of tangy and garlicky goodness. It’s great for improving salads, marinating meats, and adding a kick to many dishes.

By following simple steps to prepare and store it, you can enjoy this tasty dressing at its best. Trying out different herbs and seasonings lets you make it just how you like, making sure it goes well with your favorite meals.

FAQ

Can I make Cava Garlic Dressing vegan?

Yes, you can easily make Cava Garlic Dressing vegan by substituting the honey with a plant-based sweetener, like maple syrup or agave nectar. This small change retains the dressing’s delicious flavor while making it suitable for a vegan diet.

How long does Cava Garlic Dressing last in the fridge?

Cava Garlic Dressing can last up to 7 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed to maintain its freshness and shake well before each use to blend the ingredients thoroughly.

Can I use a different type of oil in the dressing?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with other healthy oils like avocado or flaxseed oil, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

How many calories are in Cava garlic dressing?

The calorie content of Cava Garlic Dressing can vary depending on the ingredients and portion size used. Generally, a serving size of about 2 tablespoons of the dressing contains approximately 100 to 120 calories, primarily from the olive oil.

What dishes pair well with Cava Garlic Dressing?

Cava Garlic Dressing pairs excellently with a variety of dishes like grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, Mediterranean grain bowls, fresh salads, and seafood like shrimp or salmon. It adds a flavorful twist with its garlicky tang.

Is Cava Garlic Dressing gluten-free?

Yes, the standard recipe for Cava Garlic Dressing is gluten-free, but make sure that all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially any vinegars or additional seasonings used, to cater to those with sensitivities or celiac disease.

Can I make the dressing less tangy?

To reduce the tanginess, consider decreasing the amount of vinegar or lemon juice used, or adding a pinch more honey or a similar sweetener for balance. Adjusting these ingredients can provide a milder flavor to suit your palate.

Is this dressing suitable for a ketogenic diet?

Yes, Cava Garlic Dressing can be made keto-friendly by ensuring it doesn’t contain any added sugars or sweeteners that aren’t low-carb. Olive oil, garlic, and vinegar work well for a keto diet, so this dressing is a good choice.