This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure policy.
This Greek Yogurt Poppy Seed Dressing is made without mayonnaise, oil, or refined sugars, yet still delivers a rich, creamy dressing that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy.
Healthier Poppy Seed Dressing
If you love the creamy, dreamy, sweet and tangy poppy seed dressing on Panera's Strawberry Spinach Salad, meet its healthier twin--Greek Yogurt Poppy Seed Dressing!
With a few key swaps (and ZERO additives), you can enjoy a creamy poppy seed dressing that is naturally sweetened, made without oils, lower in fat, and oh so delicious! And just like my Copycat Olive Garden Salad dressing it comes together using a blender in less than 5 minutes--talk about easy!
Happy Cooking! xo Kristen
Recipe Highlights
What You Need
For a creamy poppy seed dressing that isn't loaded with refined sugar or fat, yet still delivers incredible flavor, use the following ingredients.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt will replicate the same tang and creamy consistency that mayonnaise adds, and keeps this dressing egg-free.
- Champagne Vinegar: Champagne vinegar is my first choice for this dressing, as it is mild and slightly sweet. You can use apple cider or white wine vinegar in place of the champagne vinegar if desired.
- Honey: No refined sugar is needed to balance out the acidity and tanginess of the dressing. The honey not only sweetens the dressing, but also adds a flavorful undertone.
- Shallot: The secret to the BEST poppy seed dressing is a little bit of shallot. The mild onion flavor of the shallot helps to balance out the sweetness of the dressing.
- Poppy Seeds: For a pop of color and crunch; and to keep this dressing classic.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds deep, sharp flavor and helps to emulsify the dressing.
How to Make Poppy Seed Dressing
The following tips are provided to help you achieve perfect results. You will find the ingredient quantities and detailed instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Blend/Process Dressing. Using small blender or small food processor, combine the yogurt, shallot, vinegar, mustard, poppy seeds and seasonings until smooth and creamy.
- Chill. Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using. This allows the flavors time to marry together.
Storage Instructions
This Poppy Seed Dressing will last in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just be sure to whisk or shake prior to using.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing pairs beautifully with side salads, chicken salads, and even fruit salads. Below are a few of my favorite ways to use this simple, wholesome salad dressing.
- Classic Choices: Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing is the perfect choice for a a mixed greens salad, Strawberry Spinach Salad, Roasted Butternut Squash Salad, or a Caribbean Chicken Salad.
- Unique Fruit Salad: Swap out the honey lime dressing for Poppy Seed Dressing for a creamy and tangy fresh fruit salad.
- Creamy Broccoli Salad: For a creamy, yet still, mayo-free version of Broccoli Apple Salad, replace the citrus dressing with this poppy seed dressing.
- Make a Wrap: Toss 1-2 tablespoons of the dressing with Instant Pot shredded chicken and wrap it up in a tortilla along with spinach.
More Salad Dressing Recipes
Did you make this recipe?
If you enjoyed this recipe, please leave a comment with a 5-star review at the bottom of the post. Thank you!
Greek Yogurt Poppy Seed Dressing
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup plain Greek Yogurt
- ¼ cup champagne vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ¼ small shallot
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Place ⅓ cup plain Greek Yogurt, ¼ cup champagne vinegar, 2 tablespoons honey, ¼ small shallot, 1 tablespoon poppy seeds, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt into the base of a small food processor or blender and blend/process until smooth.
- Transfer to an airtight storage container and refrigerator for at least 30 minute prior to serving.
- Store in the fridge for up to 7 days.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
This recipe for poppy seed salad dressing was originally published in 2019 and updated in 2025.
I will always keep this in my refrigerator at all times! Even my picky 15 year old loved it!
Thanks for sharing Jen! I love hearing you all enjoy--picky eater included 🙂