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Homemade dressing is always the BEST way to show off fresh greens. This Classic Thousand Island Dressing, made in less than ten minutes, is creamy, tangy with a hint of sweetness and is not only wonderful on salads but also on burgers, sandwiches and as a dip!
This dressing has been a staple in my kitchen for years. I use it to dress my greens, of course, but it has so many other uses. It’s a must on my Slow Cooker Corned Beef Reubens and when grilling season starts, it’s the perfect topping for a juicy burger. It’s shown up at many a party as a dip with carrot and celery sticks, too. My personal favorite way to enjoy this yummy dressing is just to dunk a few pretzels in that creamy goodness. Now, the secret is out!
I call my recipe a “classic,” mostly because I’ve been making it for so long. It’s original name Thousand Island Dressing, has graced many a restaurant’s menu but you might also know it as “special sauce” or “secret sauce.” As far as the history of the recipe, it appears it was introduced in the early 1900’s. Not that any of this matters in the long run, it’s just kind of fun to know a bit about this yummy concoction since it’s just so stinking good!
Ingredients For Classic Thousand Island Dressing
- Mayonnaise
- Ketchup
- Sweet pickle relish
- Lemon juice
- Grated onion
- Salt and Pepper
How To Make This Recipe
Just one simple step and 5 minutes is all you’ll need to make this recipe!
- Add all the ingredients to a small bowl, whisk to combine well. Transfer to a mason jar and store for up to a week.
People Often Ask…
I actually didn’t know this until I wrote this recipe, but I encourage you to click here and read the full story for yourself, it’s fascinating!
“According to legend, George and Louise were out for a cruise on their steam yacht, and it was time for lunch. Greens were on the menu, but the Boldts’ chef forgot to bring any dressing with him onboard. So, he improvised with what was on hand — whipping together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce and a hard-boiled egg. Voila! Thousand Island dressing was born.”
I am not kidding when I say this dressing goes well with so many other dishes. Once you make it you’ll know what I mean. Just let your imagination go wild…and grab some pretzels while you’re at it!
Other great recipes to serve with Thousand Island Dressing:
- Slow Cooker Corned Beef Reuben Sliders
- Salad For A Crowd
- Oven Roasted Chicken Breasts
- Baked Salami Chips
- Loaded Tater Tot Bites
- Roast Beef & Cheese Sandwiches
Ingredients
- 2 cups mayonnaise (NOT salad dressing)
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 heaping tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons grated onion
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, lemon juice, grated onion to a small bowl. Whisk together until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Can be stored in refrigerator in sealed container for up to one week.
Comfort Food With A Twist
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