This dressing is something special. It is a creamy, tangy, lightly sweet, perfectly seasoned house dressing that’s unlike anything else. It isn’t ranch. It isn’t Thousand Island. It isn’t Italian.

It’s just… Delicious.

And somehow, it’s always the first thing to disappear from the table. My family practically fights over the last little drizzle left in the cup!

After lots of testing, tweaking, and tasting (and more than a few “Ohhhh this is CLOSE!” moments), this recipe finally hits all the notes of their beloved house dressing:
✨ creamy but pourable
✨ tangy with a subtle sweetness
✨ a soft blush-tan color
✨ a whisper of Parmesan
✨ the tiniest hint of seasoning — nothing overpowering

It’s simple, nostalgic, and perfect for drizzling over a fresh bowl of greens.

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⭐️ Ingredients

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup buttermilk
  (or whole milk + 1–2 tsp vinegar)
• 2 Tbsp ketchup
  (gives the signature pale pink-tan color)
• 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1½ tsp grated Parmesan
  (powdery style melts in the dressing)
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• ⅛ tsp paprika
• A tiny pinch dried oregano
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1–2 tsp water (optional, for thinning to your favorite consistency)

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⭐️ Instructions

1. Whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, ketchup, vinegar, and sugar until completely smooth.
2. Add Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and the smallest pinch of oregano.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. For a true pour, whisk in 1–2 teaspoons of water to thin slightly.
5. Chill at least 1 hour, but overnight makes it even better.

The dressing should pour easily, cling lightly to the greens, and taste creamy, tangy, and gently savory.

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🍽 How to Use Mrs. Clay’s Dressing

This dressing is magic on:

• crisp green salads
• pepperoni + mozzarella salads
• chopped tomato salads
• grilled chicken salads
• a simple side salad with supper
• even as a spread on sandwiches or burgers

And for pizza night?
Serve it just like they do — with a big family salad and a warm slice on the side.

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💗 Mrs. Clay’s Tip

If you want the color just right, start with the 2 tablespoons of ketchup and add an extra half-teaspoon at a time until you reach that classic blush-tan tone. A little goes a long way!

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✨ A Thought to Close the Day

There’s something so comforting about recreating a family favorite flavor. It brings back memories, traditions, and a little bit of hometown heart — all in one bowl. May your table be filled with good salads, warm conversations, and plenty of that sweet nostalgia.