I recently discovered the deliciousness of Cava Garlic Dressing and I am now obsessed with it. This dressing is creamy, tangy, and packed with garlic flavor that complements any salad, sandwich, or wrap. If you’re a fan of Cava Grill or Cava Mezze restaurant, then you know how addictive their garlic dressing is. Luckily, I found a copycat recipe that tastes just like the real Cava garlic dressing and I can make it at home anytime I want.
Understanding Cava Garlic Dressing is key to making a perfect copycat recipe. This dressing is a blend of garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and oil that creates a creamy and tangy flavor that is perfect for salads, sandwiches, and wraps. The garlic flavor is the star of the show and it’s what makes this dressing so addictive. The dressing is also vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
If you’re ready to make your own Cava Garlic Dressing, then you’re in luck. The recipe is simple and requires only a few ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Follow the step-by-step recipe below and you’ll have a delicious dressing that you can use all week long.
Key Takeaways
- Cava Garlic Dressing is a creamy and tangy dressing that is packed with garlic flavor.
- The dressing is vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- The recipe is simple and requires only a few ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
Understanding Cava Garlic Dressing
Cava Garlic Dressing is a delicious and versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes just like their garlic sauce. It is a popular dressing used in Mediterranean cuisine and has a unique flavor profile that makes it stand out from other dressings.
Origin of Cava Garlic Dressing
Cava Garlic Dressing originated from Cava Mezze, a Mediterranean restaurant chain in Washington, DC. This dressing was created by Dimitri Moshovitis, the co-founder of Cava Mezze. The restaurant chain is known for its fresh and healthy Mediterranean food, and the Cava Garlic Dressing is no exception.
The recipe for Cava Garlic Dressing is a closely guarded secret, but it is believed to contain garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, olive oil, and a blend of herbs and spices. The dressing is made fresh daily and is a popular choice among customers.
Health Benefits
Cava Garlic Dressing is not only delicious but also has several health benefits. Garlic, one of the main ingredients in the dressing, is known for its numerous health benefits. It is a good source of vitamins C and B6, and also contains antioxidants that help boost the immune system.
Olive oil, another key ingredient in the dressing, is also known for its health benefits. It is high in monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Olive oil is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against free radicals.
Ingredients for Cava Garlic Dressing
Making Cava Garlic Dressing is easy and requires only a handful of ingredients. Here are the primary ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious dressing:
Primary Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh garlic cloves | 15 |
| Vegetable oil | 1 cup (adjust as needed) |
| Salt | 1 tbsp. (adjust to taste) |
| Freshly squeezed lemon juice | 1 lemon |
To make the dressing, you’ll need a food processor, measuring cups and spoons, a mixing utensil (spoon or spatula), a lemon squeezer, and an airtight container.
Optional Add-Ons
While the primary ingredients are all you need to make the base of the dressing, you can add other ingredients to customize the flavor to your liking. Here are some optional add-ons you can consider:
- Dijon mustard
- Honey
- Red wine vinegar
- Greek yogurt
- Tahini
- Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill
Adding Dijon mustard or honey can give the dressing a slightly sweet and tangy flavor, while red wine vinegar can add a hint of acidity. Greek yogurt or tahini can make the dressing creamier, and adding fresh herbs can add a burst of freshness and flavor.
Overall, the primary ingredients for Cava Garlic Dressing are simple and easy to find, making it a great addition to any meal.
How To Make Cava At Home
Preparation Process
I love making my own Cava Garlic Dressing at home. It’s super easy and tastes just like the real thing! Here’s how I make it:
- Peel 15 cloves of fresh garlic and set them aside.
- Juice one lemon and set aside.
- Gather the rest of the ingredients: 1 cup vegetable oil, 1 tablespoon salt, and any additional seasonings you want to add.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Place the garlic cloves on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- Remove garlic from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Mixing and Blending
- In a food processor, add the roasted garlic, 1 cup of vegetable oil, 1 tablespoon of salt, and any additional seasonings you want to add.
- Blend the mixture until it is smooth and creamy.
- Slowly add in the freshly squeezed lemon juice while the food processor is running.
- Continue blending until the dressing is fully mixed and emulsified.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
That’s it! This garlic dressing recipe from cava is so easy to make and it tastes amazing. I love using it as a salad dressing, a marinade for grilled chicken, or even as a dip for veggies. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
Serving Suggestions and Tips
As someone who has made Cava garlic dressing many times, I have a few tips and pairing ideas to share to help you get the most out of this delicious dressing.
Pairing Ideas
Cava garlic dressing is versatile and can be used to enhance the flavor of many dishes. Here are some pairing ideas to consider:
- Salads: Cava garlic dressing pairs well with a variety of salads, from simple greens to more complex salads with nuts, fruits, and cheeses. Try it on a Greek salad with feta cheese, olives, and tomatoes.
- Grilled meats: Brush Cava garlic dressing on grilled chicken, beef, or pork for a flavorful marinade. It also works well as a dipping sauce for grilled meats.
- Roasted vegetables: Drizzle Cava garlic dressing over roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or cauliflower to add a burst of flavor.
Storage Advice
Cava garlic dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s important to note that the olive oil in the dressing may solidify when refrigerated, so be sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using it. Give the dressing a good shake or stir before using it to ensure that the ingredients are well combined.
To keep the dressing fresh for longer, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s also a good idea to label the container with the date that you made the dressing so that you can keep track of how long it’s been in the refrigerator.
Overall, Cava garlic dressing is a delicious and versatile dressing that can be used in a variety of dishes. With these pairing ideas and storage tips, you can enjoy the dressing for days to come.
Cava Garlic Dressing Recipe
Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of my homemade Cava Garlic Dressing, a Mediterranean delight crafted with roasted garlic, zesty lemon, and a blend of savory seasonings. Elevate your salads effortlessly with this easy-to-make, gluten-free dressing. Unleash the chef in you—try it now and savor the taste of culinary perfection!
Primary Ingredients
Preparation
- Peel the 15 cloves of fresh garlic and set them aside.
- Juice the lemon and set aside.
- Gather the remaining ingredients: 1 cup of vegetable oil, 1 tablespoon of salt, and any optional seasonings.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Place the peeled garlic cloves on a baking sheet and roast them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and become fragrant.
- Remove the roasted garlic from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- In a food processor, combine the roasted garlic, 1 cup of vegetable oil, 1 tablespoon of salt, and any optional seasonings.
- Blend the mixture until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
- While the food processor is running, slowly pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Continue blending until the dressing is fully mixed and emulsified.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the prepared Cava Garlic Dressing to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
Mixing and Blending
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make a vegan version of Cava’s garlic dressing?
To make a vegan version of Cava’s garlic dressing, you can substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise or silken tofu. You can also use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.
What are the ingredients in Cava’s garlic dressing?
The ingredients in Cava’s garlic dressing include garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and olive oil.
What are some recipes for Cava-style dressings?
If you’re looking to make a Cava-style dressing at home, you can try making a Greek vinaigrette by blending garlic cloves, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Another option is to make a toum sauce by blending garlic, oil, lemon juice, and salt until it becomes a creamy paste.
What are the different types of dressings available at Cava?
Cava offers a variety of dressings, including harissa tahini, green harissa, tzatziki, lemon herb tahini, and skhug.
What are some dishes that pair well with Toum?
Toum is a versatile sauce that pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, falafel, and shawarma.
Is Cava’s garlic dressing dairy-free?
Yes, Cava’s garlic dressing is dairy-free.
Thanks for the recipe. Its perfect and yummy
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