This creamy southwest avocado dressing calls for just 6 ingredients and takes less than 10 minutes to make! With simple ingredients and almost zero prework, this creamy dressing recipe is perfect for busy weekdays, on-the-go lunches, meal prep, and more. Plus it tastes way better than anything you’ll find at your local grocery store!

a jar of southwest dressing with a spoon in it, there is a bowl lettuce and some other greens around it

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I created this dressing mostly because I needed something to top my southwest salad recipe with. Ever since I was little I’ve been obsessed with the loaded southwest salads you find at the grocery store.

You know the ones loaded with diced chicken, black beans, red bell peppers, red onion, crispy tortilla strips, and topped with never enough creamy salad dressing.

If you’ve been following the blog recently then you likely know already that I finally shared my quick and easy homemade version of this salad (you can find the recipe HERE!), a delicious copycat recipe that took me way too long to get around to recreating!

a jar of salad dressing with an avocado and lime next to it, there is also a bowl of lettuce behind it

So it likely doesn’t come as any surprise that I took a little extra time and recreated the creamy avocado dressing these salads are known for coming with.

I’m happy to say that this southwest avocado dressing is not only super easy to make, but it also tastes even better than the dressing you get on the premade salads! It pairs great with just about any salad, and even makes the perfect dip for fresh veggies and tortilla chips!

Whether you’re looking for a new dressing to switch up your weekly rotation, a new recipe to add to your meal prep plans or a healthier homemade version of your favorite southwest salad dressing, this recipe has you covered! Plus you likely have all the ingredients on hand already!

a close up of a jar of southwest salad dressing

How To Make Creamy Southwest Avocado Salad Dressing

Equipment

food processor or upright blender

Ingredient List

sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt
adobo sauce, I like to buy a can of chili peppers in adobo sauce.
clove of garlic, minced. If you are in a pinch you can sub 1/2 tsp garlic powder
lime juice, you can use lemon juice if that’s all you have on hand
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
ripe avocado
water or milk to thin, if needed

a jar of salad dressing with a spoon in it, there is an avocado and lime next to it, and a bowl of lettuce behind it

Directions

Place all the ingredients in your blender or food processor, and blend at high speed until smooth and creamy. Adding a splash of water or milk as needed, to help everything blend easily. Or to thin the dressing to your desired consistency.

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. To make your dressing a little spicier add an additional 1-2 tbsp of adobo sauce and blend to combine.

Transfer the finished dressing to an airtight container or glass jar and place in the fridge until ready to use.

Use to top any of your favorite salads, and enjoy!

a jar of southwest salad dressing with a spoon in it, there is a bowl of lettuce next to it, and some other greens around it to

Recipe Notes

Any leftover southwest avocado dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to 7 days.

If you can’t find adobo sauce, you can use a tbsp of your favorite hot sauce instead. Or chili powder to taste!

This dressing is perfect for any southwestern salad, but it’s also great for southwest chicken salad or southwestern pasta salad! You can find my loaded southwest avocado salad recipe HERE!

a close up of a jar of southwest salad dressing with a spoon in it

Be Sure To Check Out These Homemade Dressings Too!

Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe(with no anchovy paste!)

Easy Poppy Seed Salad Dressing Recipe

Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe

Homemade Thousand Island Dressing

Easy Homemade Greek Salad Dressing