Homemade Catalina French Dressing

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There’s something magical about a great dressing that can transform a simple salad into a flavorful masterpiece. Imagine tossing your favorite greens with this delightful homemade Catalina French dressing. It pairs beautifully with crisp romaine or mixed greens, vibrant cherry tomatoes, sweet bell peppers, and some crunchy cucumbers.

You could even drizzle it over a refreshing pasta salad, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables. Honestly, it’s that versatile.

As I get ready to dive into this homemade Catalina French dressing recipe, let’s talk flavors. Whether you’re preparing for a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this dressing is a ticket to achieving that extra zing.

I’m excited to take you through the delightful journey of crafting a simple yet irresistible homemade Catalina French dressing.

Being a registered dietitian and a passionate food blogger, I’ve whipped up this dressing countless times for picnics, good ol’ potlucks, and even weeknight dinners. Every time, it turns skeptics into believers—a dazzling burst of flavors that takes mere salads into something extraordinary.

Using everyday ingredients, you’ll create a dressing that not only tantalizes taste buds but brings a splash of color to your table. I’ve seen many store-bought options fall flat, but this recipe guarantees an authentic taste of homemade goodness. So grab your apron, and let’s get started!

Table of Contents

What is Homemade Catalina French Dressing?

Homemade Catalina French dressing is a sweet and tangy vinaigrette that brightens any dish. It gets its characteristic red color from tomato ketchup, combined with the zesty notes of vinegar and the warmth of spices.

You might be familiar with its bottled version, but making it from scratch is truly something special. The interplay of flavors—sweet, tangy, and a hint of smokiness—sets this dressing apart.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

When you take that first taste of homemade Catalina French dressing, your palate is greeted with sweetness from sugar and ketchup. This contrasts harmoniously with the acidity of red wine vinegar.

Then comes the subtle smokiness of smoked paprika and the aromatic hints from onion and garlic powders. It’s a harmonious blend that dances on your tongue and enhances any dish you choose to adorn with it.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Homemade Catalina French Dressings?

What sets my version of Catalina French dressing apart is its simplicity and the harmonious balance of ingredients. Many recipes call for a long list of components, which can complicate the process.

But with just a few easily accessible ingredients, you’ll make a dressing that boasts fresh flavors without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ready to gather what you need? Here’s the list:

¼ cup tomato ketchup: The base that offers sweetness and color.
½ cup granulated white sugar: Enhances that sweet tangy flavor profile.
½ cup vegetable oil (canola or sunflower): This adds smoothness and richness.
½ cup red wine vinegar: The star ingredient for that tangy kick.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a warm, smoky essence.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Delivers a subtle zing.
½ teaspoon dried celery flakes: Brings a hint of earthiness.
½ teaspoon salt-free Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs for an aromatic touch.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: For a flavorful twist.
¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth and richness.

Step-by-Step Directions

Now that we’ve got our ingredients, let’s get into the fun part—making this dressing!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

To start, ensure all your ingredients are neatly laid out. This can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Trust me, you don’t want to have to scramble around your kitchen in the middle of a dressing adventure.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tomato ketchup and granulated white sugar. Whisk them together until they form a smooth mixture. The sugar won’t dissolve immediately, but that’s okay—it’s going to melt into the dressing as we continue.

Step 3: Add the Liquids

Now, it’s time to introduce vegetable oil and red wine vinegar to the bowl. Slowly drizzle the oil into the mixture while whisking vigorously. This helps emulsify the dressing, creating a rich and creamy texture. Follow up with the vinegar, continuing to whisk—this will ensure the sweetness and acidity are well-balanced.

Step 4: Spice it Up

Time to add flavor! Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, onion powder, dried celery flakes, and salt-free Italian seasoning. Give it a good whisk to incorporate all those spices together. You’ll start to notice the beautiful color developing.

Step 5: Finish with the Mustard and Garlic

Finally, add the Dijon mustard and garlic powder into the bowl. Give it one last thorough whisk, ensuring that everything is mixed well. Take a small taste—a little tweak here or there, and you’re done!

Tips on Making Homemade Catalina French Dressing

Creating a dressing is straightforward, but these tips can enhance your experience:

Opt for fresh ingredients: Fresh spices can make a significant difference.
Let it sit: Allowing the dressing to chill for an hour enhances the flavors.
Mix it up: Experiment with different types of vinegar if you want to change up the flavor.
Adjust sweetness: Feel free to decrease or increase the sugar based on your preference.
Use a jar for storage: It’s convenient! Just shake it up before use.

How Can I Store This Homemade Catalina French Dressing?

Storing your homemade Catalina French dressing is simple. Transfer it into an airtight container or a bottle with a lid. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Just make sure to give it a good shake before each use, as it may separate over time.

Substitute Options for Ingredients

If you find yourself short on some ingredients, here are a few substitutions worth considering:

Tomato Ketchup: You can use homemade tomato sauce or a mixture of tomato paste and vinegar for a similar tang.
White Sugar: Brown sugar or honey can serve as an alternative, but adjust the amount based on sweetness levels.
Vegetable Oil: Olive oil will work, but it may impart a stronger flavor. You could also try avocado oil.
Red Wine Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can create a similar taste profile.

Homemade Catalina French Dressing

Mary Lee RD

I’m excited to take you through the delightful journey of crafting a simple yet irresistible homemade Catalina French dressing.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 0

Total Time 10

Course sauce

Cuisine French

Servings Servings

Calories 85 kcal

Equipment

Medium-sized bowl

Ingredients

¼ cup tomato ketchup
½ cup granulated white sugar
½ cup vegetable oil canola or sunflower
½ cup red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried celery flakes
½ teaspoon salt-free Italian seasoning such as Mrs. Dash® Italian Medley
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder adds extra depth