This tangy poppyseed dressing recipe combines the perfect balance of sweetness and tang, making it an ideal complement for salads, fruit bowls, or even as a dip for vegetables. Inspired by classic flavors, it’s similar to the beloved dressing found on Panera Bread’s menu and modeled after my favorite Café Intermezzo salad dressing. It’s perfect for adding a light yet flavorful touch to your favorite dishes.

Poppyseed dressing dripping off a piece of red leaf lettuce.

I use this beloved poppyseed dressing on my favorite meal salad that includes beans, chickpeas, tomatoes, and more on a bed of romaine lettuce. I promise it will quickly become a staple dressing in your repertoire.

🧾 Ingredients in This Recipe

Labeled ingredients on a countertop to make poppy seed dressing.

Yellow onion – You can substitute the onion with a shallot.
Greek yogurt – You can use any fat content of Greek yogurt.
Mayonnaise – I prefer vegan mayonnaise so that is what I keep in the house, but regular mayonnaise works just the same in this recipe.
Apple cider vinegar – This is the best flavor vinegar for this recipe. If you must substitute, a good option is champagne vinegar.
Sugar – Granulated sugar works best because it has a small grain and dissolves well in the dressing. You can also use cane sugar or turbinado sugar but you will need to mix the dressing better for it to dissolve.
Poppyseeds – The key ingredient! They have a lovely mild, nutty flavor with a slightly sweet and earthy undertone.

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

👩‍🍳How to Make This Recipe

Add all the ingredients to a bowl.
Whisk together with a whisk or fork until combined.

Use this dressing on any of your favorite salads or as a veggie dip. It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for 2 days.

🥗More Salad and Dressing Recipes

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Persian Salad Olivieh – Chicken and Potato Salad

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