Catalina Dressing Recipe

Ketchup: Provides a sweet and tangy base for the dressing.

Apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy acidity that balances the sweetness.

Maple syrup: Contributes a natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

Olive oil: Gives the dressing a smooth texture and richness.

Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor.

Paprika: Provides a mild, smoky flavor and a touch of color.

Onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor without the texture of fresh onions.

Garlic powder: Infuses the dressing with a mild garlic flavor.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and enhances the other flavors.

When blending the dressing, start on a low speed to ensure all the ingredients are well incorporated before gradually increasing to a higher speed. This helps achieve a smoother consistency and prevents splattering. Additionally, let the olive oil come to room temperature before blending to ensure it emulsifies properly with the other liquids.

• ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste: Tomato paste provides a rich tomato flavor and can be sweetened with a bit of maple syrup to mimic the sweetness of ketchup.

• apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar has a similar acidity and tanginess, making it a good alternative.

• maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar has a similar sweetness and consistency, making it a suitable replacement for maple syrup.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and similar health benefits, making it a great alternative to olive oil.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a similar umami flavor.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a similar color and a slightly smoky flavor, enhancing the depth of the dressing.

• onion powder - Substitute with dried minced onion: Dried minced onion provides a similar onion flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• garlic powder - Substitute with granulated garlic: Granulated garlic has a similar flavor profile and can be used as a direct substitute for garlic powder.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar spiciness and can be used to maintain the peppery flavor without altering the color of the dressing.

• After blending your Catalina dressing, transfer it to an airtight container. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The dressing will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Make sure to give it a good shake before each use, as some separation may occur.

• If you want to keep the dressing for a longer period, consider freezing it. Pour the dressing into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.

• Alternatively, you can use ice cube trays to freeze individual portions. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top freezer bag. This method allows you to thaw only what you need.

• When you're ready to use the frozen dressing, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. If you're in a hurry, you can place the container in a bowl of cold water to speed up the process.

• Avoid microwaving the dressing to thaw it, as this can alter the texture and flavor. Instead, let it come to room temperature naturally or use the cold water method.

• Once thawed, give the dressing a good stir or shake to recombine any separated ingredients. Enjoy your Catalina dressing on your favorite salads, vegetables, or as a zesty marinade for grilled vegetables.

• Pour the Catalina dressing into a small saucepan.
• Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
• If the dressing thickens too much, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or olive oil to thin it out.
• Alternatively, you can microwave the dressing in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• For a more controlled reheating, use a double boiler. Place the dressing in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until warmed.
• If you prefer a cold dressing, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.

• Blender: Used to combine and emulsify all the ingredients until smooth.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and olive oil.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the soy sauce, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper.

• Airtight container: Used to store the finished Catalina dressing in the fridge to keep it fresh.

• Spatula: Helpful for scraping down the sides of the blender to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Measure ingredients ahead: Gather and measure all ingredients before starting. This ensures a smooth process.

Use a high-speed blender: A high-speed blender will blend the dressing faster and more efficiently.

Store in bulk: Double the recipe and store extra dressing in the fridge for future use.

Pre-mix dry spices: Combine spices like paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder in advance to save time.

Use a squeeze bottle: Store the dressing in a squeeze bottle for easy application and less cleanup.