50+ Creamy Winter Salad Dressing Recipes You’ll Love

Winter salads deserve just as much love as their summer counterparts, and a great dressing is the key to making them truly shine.

When the colder months set in, hearty greens like kale, spinach, and cabbage take center stage, often paired with roasted vegetables, nuts, fruits, and grains.

The right dressing can elevate these ingredients by adding warmth, spice, creaminess, or a hint of sweetness.

Whether you’re looking for a creamy avocado-lime dressing to pair with roasted root vegetables or a smoky tahini sauce for your quinoa salads, we’ve got you covered.

In this post, we’ll explore over 50 winter salad dressing recipes that will bring flavor and excitement to your seasonal dishes, turning simple salads into nourishing and satisfying meals.

From tangy vinaigrettes to creamy, rich options, these dressings are packed with ingredients like citrus, maple, ginger, and herbs to give your salads that perfect winter touch.

No matter your flavor preference, you’re sure to find plenty of ideas to inspire your next cold-weather salad creation.

50+ Creamy Winter Salad Dressing Recipes You’ll Love

Winter salads can be hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor when paired with the right dressing.

The 50+ salad dressing recipes we’ve compiled will help you make the most of the season’s ingredients and keep your meals interesting and delicious.

Whether you’re craving something creamy, sweet, tangy, or spicy, these dressings will complement everything from simple green salads to robust combinations of roasted veggies, grains, and fruits.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with new flavors and ingredients to find the perfect match for your winter salads.

With the right dressing, you can transform any cold-weather salad into a comforting and nourishing dish that feels like a special treat all season long.

Cranberry Balsamic Vinaigrette

This tangy and sweet dressing combines the tartness of cranberries with the depth of balsamic vinegar, making it perfect for winter salads. The vibrant color and rich flavor pair beautifully with mixed greens, roasted vegetables, and creamy cheeses.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• ½ cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries and balsamic vinegar over medium heat. Cook until the cranberries burst and soften, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine the cranberry mixture, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until fully incorporated.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

This dressing is not just a flavorful addition to your salads; it also adds a festive touch to your winter meals. The bright cranberry flavor enhances the freshness of greens and complements roasted nuts and cheeses beautifully.

Creamy Maple Mustard Dressing

This creamy dressing is a delightful blend of sweet and savory, perfect for hearty winter salads that feature ingredients like kale, Brussels sprouts, or roasted root vegetables. Its smooth texture and balanced flavors provide a comforting richness to any dish.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water (to thin, if needed)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the dressing is too thick, add water a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
3. Adjust sweetness or acidity by adding more maple syrup or vinegar, as needed.

This dressing not only brings a creamy texture but also adds a touch of sweetness that beautifully balances the bitterness of winter greens. It’s a versatile dressing that can be drizzled over salads, used as a dip for vegetables, or even as a spread for sandwiches.

Lemon-Herb Tahini Dressing

Bright and zesty, this tahini-based dressing is packed with flavor and nutrition. The citrusy notes of lemon combined with fresh herbs make it an ideal companion for salads that feature grains, roasted veggies, or citrus fruits.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons warm water (more if needed)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic until smooth.
2. Gradually add warm water until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
3. Stir in the chopped herbs and season with salt and pepper to taste.

This dressing not only adds a creamy texture but also provides a rich source of healthy fats and protein from tahini. The brightness from the lemon and herbs lifts the overall flavor profile of winter salads, making them feel fresh and vibrant despite the chilly weather.

Incorporating these dressings into your winter salads will not only enhance their taste but also provide a delightful contrast to the hearty ingredients often used during this season. Each dressing adds a unique flavor profile, ensuring that your salads remain exciting and flavorful all winter long.

Roasted Garlic and Herb Dressing

This dressing brings out the deep, rich flavor of roasted garlic paired with fresh herbs. Its earthy and slightly sweet taste complements roasted vegetables, root salads, and even grain bowls, making it perfect for cozy winter dishes.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole head of garlic
• ½ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic head, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, wrap it in foil, and roast for 30-35 minutes until soft.
2. Let the garlic cool slightly, then squeeze the cloves into a blender.
3. Add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

This dressing adds a warm and rustic flavor to your salads, making it an excellent choice for the colder months. The sweetness of roasted garlic combined with fresh herbs creates a balanced yet bold taste that transforms simple salads into comforting meals.

Pomegranate Molasses Vinaigrette

Pomegranate molasses gives this dressing a unique tangy-sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with hearty greens like kale and arugula. The rich, syrupy base adds depth to winter salads, especially when combined with fruits, nuts, and roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the pomegranate molasses, red wine vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until combined.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking until the dressing emulsifies.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

The tangy and slightly fruity flavor of this dressing pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of roasted beets, butternut squash, or dried cranberries. It’s a great way to bring brightness and a touch of elegance to your winter salads.

Spiced Orange Vinaigrette

This citrusy and spiced dressing brings a burst of sunshine to winter salads. Made with fresh orange juice, warm spices like cinnamon and cumin, and a touch of honey, this dressing is the perfect blend of warmth and brightness.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, cinnamon, and cumin until well combined.
2. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the dressing emulsifies.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This bright and warming dressing is ideal for winter salads that feature seasonal fruits like pears, apples, or pomegranate seeds. The warm spices add a cozy element, making it a perfect addition to holiday gatherings or everyday winter meals.

Each of these dressings brings its own unique flavor profile to the table, adding warmth, brightness, and complexity to winter salads. Whether you’re looking for the earthy richness of roasted garlic or the tangy sweetness of pomegranate molasses, these dressings will help transform simple ingredients into flavorful and comforting meals.

Apple Cider Maple Vinaigrette

This dressing combines the tartness of apple cider vinegar with the sweetness of maple syrup, creating a well-balanced and rich flavor perfect for winter salads. It pairs beautifully with crisp greens, apples, walnuts, and roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the dressing emulsifies.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

The sweet and tangy flavor of this dressing adds warmth and depth to salads, especially those featuring fall and winter produce like apples, pears, and squash. It’s a simple yet flavorful addition that brings out the best in fresh and roasted ingredients.

Honey Mustard Citrus Dressing

This vibrant and zesty dressing blends the freshness of citrus with the rich sweetness of honey and the sharpness of mustard. It’s an excellent match for salads with bitter greens like radicchio or arugula, as well as those featuring citrus fruits and nuts.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup fresh orange juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard.
2. Gradually add the olive oil while whisking, until the dressing emulsifies.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This dressing brings a refreshing and uplifting flavor to winter salads, with a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. It pairs well with fruits, toasted nuts, and greens, adding brightness to your meals during the colder months.

Smoky Paprika Tahini Dressing

This creamy and smoky dressing is packed with bold flavors, thanks to the richness of tahini and the warmth of smoked paprika. It’s perfect for hearty winter salads with ingredients like roasted root vegetables, grains, and beans.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, water, smoked paprika, honey, and minced garlic until smooth.
2. If the dressing is too thick, add a little more water to reach the desired consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

The smoky flavor of paprika combined with the creamy texture of tahini makes this dressing a standout for winter salads. It adds richness and a comforting warmth, making it ideal for salads featuring roasted vegetables, quinoa, or chickpeas.

These dressings bring bold and vibrant flavors to winter salads, whether you’re looking for something tangy and sweet like the Apple Cider Maple Vinaigrette or something smoky and hearty like the Paprika Tahini Dressing. Each adds its own seasonal twist, ensuring your salads are as comforting as they are flavorful during the colder months.

Buttermilk Herb Dressing

This creamy and tangy dressing is perfect for hearty winter salads, adding a rich, savory flavor to complement robust greens like kale or radicchio. The fresh herbs balance the buttermilk’s tartness, making it ideal for salads that feature roasted vegetables or grains.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, sour cream, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Stir in the chopped herbs and minced garlic.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This dressing adds a creamy richness without being too heavy, making it a perfect addition to any winter salad. The tanginess of the buttermilk pairs wonderfully with winter greens, while the fresh herbs add a burst of flavor.

Walnut and Shallot Vinaigrette

Rich and nutty, this walnut-based dressing brings a deep, earthy flavor to your salads. Combined with shallots and Dijon mustard, this vinaigrette pairs well with salads featuring roasted squash, beets, or blue cheese.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup walnut oil (or olive oil)
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey.
2. Stir in the finely chopped shallot.
3. Slowly drizzle in the walnut oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This dressing brings a deep, nutty richness to winter salads, making it an excellent complement to roasted root vegetables and hearty greens. The combination of walnut oil and shallots adds complexity, giving your salad an upscale, gourmet touch.

Maple Dijon Balsamic Dressing

This sweet and tangy dressing is perfect for adding warmth and a bit of zest to your winter salads. The combination of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar creates a bold flavor that works well with salads featuring roasted vegetables, cranberries, or pecans.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• ½ cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup.
2. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is fully emulsified.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This dressing is a fantastic balance of sweet and tangy, ideal for drizzling over hearty winter greens like spinach or arugula. The maple syrup gives it a seasonal touch, making it a great choice for holiday salads or winter gatherings.

Each of these dressings brings something special to the table—whether it’s the creamy tang of buttermilk, the earthy depth of walnut oil, or the sweet-tangy combination of maple and balsamic. These dressings will make your winter salads not only flavorful but also exciting and comforting.

Creamy Avocado and Lime Dressing

This smooth and tangy dressing is a wonderful winter option for those looking for a creamy yet refreshing flavor. The richness of avocado, balanced by the bright zest of lime, makes it perfect for salads with hearty greens like kale or spinach.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water to thin, as needed

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, lime juice, olive oil, Greek yogurt, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This dressing is creamy and luscious, bringing a rich texture that complements the crunch of winter greens or roasted vegetables. Its fresh lime flavor adds brightness, making it a delightful contrast to heavier winter dishes.

Ginger Sesame Soy Dressing

This Asian-inspired dressing combines the warming spiciness of fresh ginger with the nutty flavor of sesame oil and the umami of soy sauce. It’s perfect for winter salads featuring ingredients like cabbage, carrots, or edamame, and even works well with warm grain salads.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, honey, and minced garlic.
2. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the dressing emulsifies.
3. Optionally, garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

This dressing brings a bold, savory flavor to your winter salads, making it a great complement to crunchy vegetables like cabbage or even roasted root vegetables. The combination of soy, ginger, and sesame gives a warming, umami-rich taste perfect for cold days.

Maple Tahini Dressing

For a creamy and nutty dressing with a hint of sweetness, this maple tahini dressing is a great choice. The combination of maple syrup and tahini creates a rich, deep flavor that pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, and leafy greens.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, and water until smooth.
2. Add the minced garlic and whisk again to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This dressing is rich, creamy, and just slightly sweet, making it ideal for winter salads filled with hearty ingredients like sweet potatoes, farro, or Brussels sprouts. The maple syrup adds a seasonal touch, while the tahini brings a satisfying creaminess.

These dressings provide a range of flavors from creamy and bright to savory and nutty, ensuring that your winter salads remain as exciting as they are comforting. Whether you’re looking for a fresh twist with avocado and lime or an umami punch with ginger sesame soy, these dressings will bring warmth and richness to your seasonal meals.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!