I’ve always been a fan of Hendrickson’s Dressing. The moment I tasted it, I knew I had to figure out how to make it myself. There’s something special about that tangy, creamy flavor that elevates any salad or dish.
After some experimentation, I finally nailed the perfect copycat recipe. It’s simple to make and uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Now you can enjoy Hendrickson’s favorite dressing anytime you want, without leaving home.
Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
Tools And Equipment
Creating Hendrickson’s Dressing Copycat Recipe is a rewarding process that requires just a few key tools. Here’s what I use to ensure the dressing turns out perfectly every time:
- Mixing Bowl: A large, sturdy bowl provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: A good-quality whisk helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture by thoroughly blending the mayonnaise and sour cream with the other components.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for balancing the tangy and creamy flavors. I always use a set of precise measuring tools.
- Spatula: A flexible spatula is perfect for scraping every bit of dressing from the bowl, ensuring nothing is wasted.
- Knife and Cutting Board: Fresh parsley and dill require fine chopping. A sharp chef’s knife and a reliable cutting board make this task easy and safe.
- Storage Container: An airtight jar or container is ideal for storing the dressing in the refrigerator, keeping it fresh and flavorful.
- Hand Mixer or Blender (Optional): For an extra smooth consistency, I sometimes use a hand mixer or blender. This step is optional but can enhance the dressing’s creaminess.
Having these tools on hand makes crafting Hendrickson’s Dressing at home straightforward and enjoyable. Each item plays a crucial role in blending the ingredients to perfection, resulting in a delicious, homemade version of your favorite dressing.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create my Hendrickson’s Dressing copycat. It’s easy to make and perfect for any salad or dish you love.
Prep
- Gather Ingredients: Measure out 1 cup mayonnaise, ½ cup sour cream, and 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar.
- Prepare Spices: Measure 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, 1 tablespoon sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Chop Fresh Herbs: Finely chop 2 tablespoons fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon fresh dill.
- Set Up Workspace: Ensure you have a mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, spatula, knife, cutting board, and a storage container ready.
Mix Ingredients
- Combine Base: In the mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise and sour cream. Whisk until smooth.
- Add Vinegar and Mustard: Pour in the apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard. Continue whisking to blend thoroughly.
- Incorporate Spices: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until all spices are evenly distributed.
- Fold in Herbs: Gently fold in the chopped parsley and dill using the spatula until well combined.
Chill Dressing
- Transfer to Container: Pour the dressing into a clean storage container with a tight-fitting lid.
- Refrigerate: Place the container in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Stir Before Serving: Before using, give the dressing a good stir to ensure consistency.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Hendrickson’s Dressing ahead of time not only saves you effort on busy days but also enhances the flavors as they meld perfectly in the refrigerator. Here’s how I ensure my dressing is always ready to impress:
- Prepare and Mix:
- Follow the recipe to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Achieving the right balance is crucial, so take your time mixing until smooth.
- Choose the Right Container:
- Transfer the dressing into an airtight container. Glass jars with secure lids work best to maintain freshness and prevent any odors from seeping in.
- Refrigerate for Optimal Flavor:
- Allow the dressing to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. For the richest flavor, I prefer making it a day in advance.
- Storage Duration:
- My copycat dressing stays fresh and flavorful for up to one week. Here’s a quick reference:
| Storage Time | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| 4 hours | Fresh and tangy |
| 1 day | Enhanced and well-blended flavors |
| Up to 1 week | Consistently delicious |
- Before Serving:
- Give the dressing a good stir to reincorporate any separation that may have occurred. If it thickens too much, add a teaspoon of water or apple cider vinegar to reach your desired consistency.
- Freezing Option:
- While not typically necessary, you can freeze the dressing for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and stir well before use.
- Batch Preparation:
- Making a larger batch saves time for future meals. Simply multiply the ingredients and store the extra in separate containers for easy access throughout the week.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you ensure that Hendrickson’s Dressing is always ready to elevate your salads and dishes with its creamy, tangy goodness.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage is key to maintaining the rich, tangy flavor of my Hendrickson’s Dressing copycat. Here’s how I ensure it stays fresh and delicious:
Refrigeration
I store the dressing in an airtight container to keep out any unwanted flavors. Glass jars work best for me because they are easy to clean and don’t retain odors. Keep the dressing refrigerated for up to one week. Before serving, give it a good stir to restore its creamy texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. I transfer the dressing to a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space at the top to allow for expansion. Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness. The dressing can be frozen for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight and stir well before use to ensure a smooth consistency.
Make-Ahead Preparation
Making the dressing ahead of time not only saves time but also enhances the flavors. I recommend preparing the dressing at least four hours in advance. For the best taste, prepare it overnight. This resting period allows the herbs and spices to meld beautifully, resulting in a more flavorful dressing.
Batch Preparation
If you enjoy using the dressing regularly, consider making a larger batch. Store the extra in the refrigerator or freezer to have it readily available. This approach minimizes daily prep time and ensures you always have a delicious, homemade dressing on hand to elevate your salads and dishes.
Storage Overview
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated | Up to 1 week | Use glass jars, stir before serving |
| Frozen | Up to 3 months | Leave space for expansion, label with date |
| Make-Ahead | Minimum 4 hours | Best flavors after overnight rest |
By following these storage instructions, you can enjoy the full, vibrant taste of Hendrickson’s Dressing copycat whenever you crave it.
Conclusion
Creating Hendrickson’s Dressing in my kitchen has been a delightful experience. I love how easily the flavors come together using everyday ingredients. It’s satisfying to have a homemade version that rivals the original. Whether you’re dressing a fresh salad or enhancing your favorite dishes this recipe is versatile and delicious. I hope you enjoy making and savoring every bite as much as I do. Cheers to tasty homemade dressing!
