Bob Evans Colonial Dressing Recipe

If you’ve ever had a salad at Bob Evans and wondered what made the dressing so smooth and tangy, this is it!

Using mayonnaise as the base gives it that rich consistency, but the real secret is a touch of honey to balance the acidity.

I’ve found that blending everything instead of just stirring makes it extra silky, so don’t skip that step.

A bit of celery seed and onion powder gives it just enough depth to make every bite interesting.

A small pinch of celery seed is the ingredient that takes it from good to spot-on!

How to Make Bob Evans Colonial Dressing

Ingredients

• 1 cup Water
• 1/8 cup Cornstarch
• 3/4 cup Sugar
• 1 cup Mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Vinegar
• 1/8 tsp Garlic Powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Combine 1 cup of water and 1/8 cup of cornstarch in a blender.

Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth, which takes about a minute.

Step 2:

Transfer the blended mixture to a 2 1/2-quart saucepan.

Heat over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

Step 3:

Once the mixture thickens, add 3/4 cup of sugar and mix well.

Remove the saucepan from the heat.

Step 4:

In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup vinegar, and 1/8 tsp garlic powder.

Combine with the cornstarch mixture until smooth.

Step 5:

Let the dressing cool completely before transferring it to a container for refrigerating.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Consistency Check

Make sure to blend the cornstarch and water thoroughly to avoid any lumps in the dressing later.

Cool Before Storing

Allow the dressing to cool at room temperature before storing in the fridge to retain its flavor and texture.

Flavor Adjustment

Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar or vinegar if you prefer a sweeter or tangier dressing.

Keeping Fresh

Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for up to a week.

Stir Before Serving

Give the dressing a quick stir before using to make sure it retains its creamy texture.

What to Serve with Bob Evans Colonial Dressing

Fresh Garden Salad

You can’t go wrong with pairing Bob Evans Colonial Dressing with a fresh garden salad.

The tang and creaminess of the dressing balance perfectly with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers.

Throw in some sliced onion and bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

Grilled Chicken Skewers

Grilled chicken skewers are an excellent choice to serve with this dressing.

The smoky flavor of seasoned chicken compliments the rich, creamy taste of the dressing beautifully.

Serve them warm or at room temperature for a versatile and inviting plate.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

The dressing’s tangy sweetness enhances roasted Brussels sprouts in a unique way.

Roast the sprouts until they’re golden and crispy, then toss them with a drizzle of dressing for a delicious contrast.

This uncommon choice is sure to be a hit!

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries pair wonderfully with a side of Bob Evans Colonial Dressing.

Dip these crispy fries into the dressing. Enough said!

It’s a new take on dipping sauce that you might just fall in love with.

Cheese and Cracker Platter

Bob Evans Colonial Dressing can be used as a dip on a cheese and cracker platter.

The creamy texture makes it a perfect companion for an assortment of cheeses and freshly baked crackers.

Include some fresh fruits like grapes or apple slices for a refreshing mix.

Variations and Substitutions

Adding a Creamy Twist

To make your dressing creamy, mix in half a cup of mayonnaise.

A touch of garlic powder can add more depth to the flavor profile!

Sweet and Tangy Adjustments

For a sweet kick, try mixing in a tablespoon of light corn syrup.

Add prepared mustard to bring out a tangy flavor that’s refreshing.

Spicy Enhancements

If you’re feeling adventurous, spice it up with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

Adjust the spice level to make it perfect for your taste buds!

Flavor Depth

Enhance the herbaceous undertone with one tablespoon of dry oregano leaves.

This addition provides a lovely aromatic twist!

How to Store Leftover Bob Evans Colonial Dressing

Refrigeration

Once you’ve made Bob Evans Colonial Dressing, storing it correctly is key to maintaining its quality and flavor.

You should always refrigerate leftover dressing, keeping it in an airtight container.

A mason jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid works perfectly.

Leaving it out at room temperature can compromise its freshness and safety.

Remember, it’s important to use the leftover dressing within one week to enjoy it at its best.

Do Not Freeze

Although you might be tempted to freeze the leftover dressing, it’s advisable to avoid doing so.

Freezing can negatively impact the dressing’s creamy texture and separate the ingredients upon thawing.

If you have a significant amount left, it could be a good idea to share with friends or use it creatively in other dishes.

Give it a Good Stir

Before using the leftover dressing, make sure you give it a good stir.

The ingredients might have settled or separated while in the fridge.

Stirring helps in regaining its smooth consistency and ensures all flavors are well-blended.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Incorrect Ingredients

One common mistake is using the wrong type of vinegar in the dressing, which can alter the taste significantly more than you might expect.

Stick to the original recipe ingredients to get that authentic Bob Evans taste in your dish.

Mixing Errors

Another misstep is not blending the cornstarch and water thoroughly before cooking.

You want to mix until smooth to avoid lumps that ruin the dressing’s texture.

Cooking Process

People often cook the mixture too quickly, leading to separation or burning.

Use a medium-high heat and keep stirring for the best results.