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Homemade Russian Dressing

This classic Russian dressing recipe is a wonderfully spicy spread to slather on your favorite sandwiches (especially Reubens!) or drizzle on a salad. With less than 10 minutes to prep time, it’s easy to always have a batch on hand!

The Background

Russian dressing is creamy and smooth, slightly spiced, and full of flavor; a perfect accompaniment to any sandwich or salad.

Its history dates back to the early 1900s in the U.S.; the original version included caviar, which was a staple in Russian cuisine, hence the name “Russian” dressing.

Russian Dressing vs. Thousand Island vs. French Dressing

All three of these dressings are similar in that they share a number of ingredients, but have some distinct differences:

• Thousand Island dressing uses pickle relish and has a creamier, sweeter flavor.
• French dressing, while also reddish in color from ketchup and paprika, is more of a traditional vinaigrette with a base of oil and vinegar.
• Russian dressing is spicier and more piquant thanks to the addition of chili sauce, horseradish, and hot sauce.

Ingredients

The list of ingredients isn’t long, and each one gives this dressing a special pop of flavor!

• Mayonnaise – Use your favorite!
• Chili sauce – I buy the Heinz brand (it’s what my mom always used in these chipped ham BBQ sandwiches!).
• Shallot – Grated, so that it more easily blends into the dressing. You can substitute grated onion.
• Horseradish – I use the “prepared horseradish” for this dressing.
• Worcestershire sauce – Use your favorite brand.
• Hot sauce – I use Tabasco, but you can also use Frank’s Red Hot, Sriracha, or your favorite blend. If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can increase the amount to 1 teaspoon.
• Paprika – Reach for the “regular” or “sweet” paprika; do not use smoked paprika, as it will alter the flavor greatly.

How to Make It

It could not be simpler!

Just add all of the ingredients to a medium bowl and whisk until they are thoroughly combined.

You can use it immediately, but the dressing will taste even better if you let it sit for at least 1 hour before using.

How to Use It

Hands-down, my absolute favorite way to use Russian dressing is on a Reuben sandwich!

Slather it on rye bread, then pile it high with corned beef or pastrami, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut or coleslaw.

Here are more ideas for serving Russian dressing:

• As a salad dressing
• Spread on a burger
• Spread on any of your favorite deli sandwiches
• Add it to your quesadillas!

How to Store It

Kept in an airtight container, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing is not recommended.

More of My Favorite Dressings

• Mom’s Italian Dressing
• Homemade Buttermilk Ranch Dressing
• Classic Burger Sauce
• Creamy Coleslaw Dressing

If you make this recipe and love it, remember to stop back and give it a 5-star rating – it helps others find the recipe! ❤️️

Photography by Lauren Grant

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