Russian Dressing is a classic spicy spread for sandwiches or on dressing for salads. One bite and you’ll be hooked on this flavor-packed creamy dressing.
Russian Dressing was in its prime when salad dressing caddies were served on steak house restaurant tables.
But even though it may not be the most popular dressing it’s one to take note of.
Easy to make at home, this creamy, spicy dressing will become a favorite as a spread on sandwiches. Or on salads.
It adds a zesty surprise to any dish!
What is Russian Dressing?
Russian Dressing slightly spicy sandwich spread with mayonnaise, tomato ketchup or chili sauce, horseradish and other spices.
It’s a classic best known as a key ingredient for old-school dishes such as the Crab Louie Salad or Reuben Sandwich.
The dressing is used for salads too and is not a chunky dressing (though there are recipe variations making an exception).
Why is it called Russian Dressing?
Russian Dressing originated in New Hampshire in the early 1900’s.
It is believed to have originally had caviar as an ingredient giving it the name.
Russian Dressing is actually not from Russia.
Russian Dressing Ingredients
Easy to find ingredients combine for make an extraordinary dressing recipe!
Though the dressing can be store bought homemade Russian dressing is incredibly better.
- Mayonnaise
- Chili Sauce
- Smoked Hot Paprika
- prepared Horseradish
- Pimentos, canned or jarred
- Worcestershire Sauce
- Fresh Chives
Difference Between Russian Dressing and Thousand Island Dressing
Sharing multiple ingredients, it’s easy to see where Russian Dressing and Thousand Island would get confused.
There are fine lines and practices about each Russian Dressing, Thousand Island Dressing and Catalina Dressing with many opinions on each.
The main difference between the two is the use of pickles in Thousand Island dressing, giving it more sweetness and texture.
Russian Dressing is known for a more piquant or spicy flavor from chili sauce and prepared horseradish.
How to Make Russian Dressing from Scratch – Step by Step
This recipe couldn’t be easier to make. Making dressing at home keeps is fresh and flavorful.
The only hard part?
Waiting while it chills and the flavors combine to eat it!
- Combine all ingredients in a blender (or in a mixing bowl using an immersion blender); pulse into a smooth mixture.
- Transfer into a sealed container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
How to Store
Keep in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
How to Use Russian Dressing
Truth be told, I fell in love with this dressing when recreating a Brooklyn Avenue Sandwich from Mad Men.
Pastrami, Russian Dressing, with cole slaw on rye bread sounded too good to be true.
One bite and I was in heaven (and my family begged me to make the sandwiches multiple times).
It made me realize what I’d been missing not having it my life.
Use Ideas:
- As a spread on any sandwich.
- As Russian salad dressing.
- Make a classic Crab Louie salad with crab meat, hard-boiled eggs, tomato, asparagus on iceberg or romaine lettuce.
- Make a classic Reuben Sandwich with sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese on rye bread. Or the Rachel Sandwich (a twist with turkey and coleslaw).
- Try this Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken recipe.
- Add it to a Burger.
- Another deli sandwich, the triple-decker New Jersey Sloppy Joe uses two meats and more delicious ingredients.
More Sauce and Condiment Recipes You’ll Love
- The Best Homemade Ketchup
- How to Make Raspberry Vinaigrette with fresh berries
- Fresh Peach Chutney: A Quick, Easy Chutney Recipe
- Roasted Tomatillo Salsa (Salsa Verde)
- Green Goddess Dressing
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Recipe
Russian Dressing
Ingredients
- ½ cup Mayonnaise
- ½ cup Chile Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Hot Paprika
- 1 tablespoon prepared Horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Pimentos Canned or jarred
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 10 small chives chopped
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a blender (or in a mixing bowl using an immersion blender); pulse into a smooth mixture.
- Transfer into a sealable container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Notes
Nutrition
Ruth I says
This is the first time I’ve heard this! I am so curious of the taste now. I love that I can use it as spread and salad dressing.
Danielle says
I would totally enjoy a spread like this in the morning – with my favorite bread or even on top of my eggs. I can imagine how flavorful it is!
Andrea Metlika says
Russian is one of my favorites and homemade is the best. I can’t wait to make this.
Alina | Cooking Journey Blog says
I’ve never heard about Russian dressing, but I think is is great with cabbage salad. Thanks for sharing!
Toni Dash says
It would be SO good!
Emily Liao says
I’ve never had Russian dressing before, but this sure looks delicious! I’ll definitely have to give this a go 🙂
Romy says
This looks so yummy and tasty. Now I’m craving a Reuben sandwich!
Anna says
This dressing is spot on and so much better than the store-bought version. Thank you for the recipe!
Dannii says
This sounds amazing, and I love that it has some spiciness to it too.
Jen says
I never realized how easy this was to make at home. So much better flavor than store bought.
Sherry says
I can’t believe I have never tried Russian dressing. I have started making my own dressing so I can’t wait to give this one a try.