This Homemade Catalina Dressing is a tangy and slightly sweet salad dressing made with red wine vinegar, tomato ketchup, and spices. Smooth and creamy, it works perfectly as a dressing for green salads, coleslaw, sandwiches, wraps, and grilled meats. Quick to prepare and refrigerator-friendly, it offers fresh flavors compared to store-bought versions.

Ingredients

1/2 cup (120 ml) red wine vinegar
1/3 cup (80 g) tomato ketchup
1/4 cup (60 ml) honey (or substitute with granulated sugar)
1 tsp (5 ml) Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 cup (120 ml) canola oil

Instructions

In a blender, combine red wine vinegar, tomato ketchup, honey (or sugar), Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Secure the blender lid and blend on high for about 30 seconds until smooth and creamy.
With the blender running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the canola oil until fully incorporated.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed: add more honey or sugar for sweetness, extra vinegar for acidity, or more spices for flavor.
Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Shake well before using after storage.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade dressing with bold, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors.
Fresh ingredients provide better taste than store-bought versions.
Quick and simple to make with minimal prep.
Versatile dressing suitable for salads, sandwiches, or marinades.

Tips

Blend thoroughly to ensure a creamy, smooth texture.
Use fresh spices for more vibrant flavor.
Shake or stir well before each use, especially after refrigeration.

Variations and Substitutions

Sweetener: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Oil: Substitute canola oil with vegetable, sunflower, or light olive oil.
Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat or smoked chili powder for a deeper flavor.
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used for a milder tang.

FAQs

Q: How long will this dressing keep?
Stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator, it lasts up to two weeks.

Q: Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared several days in advance for convenience.

Q: Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, if using a sugar substitute instead of honey.

Serving

Use as a dressing for green salads, coleslaw, or as a dipping sauce for vegetables. It also works as a flavorful marinade for grilled meats or tofu.

Suggestions

Drizzle over grilled chicken or shrimp for a tangy finish.
Mix into pasta salads for added flavor and color.
Use as a sauce for wraps, sandwiches, or burgers for an extra kick.