Thousand Island dressing is one of the most popular dressings for salads and dips. With its light pink color and sweet, creamy flavor, it is a blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, vinegar, and spices. The name refers to the Thousand Islands region on the U.S.-Canada border, where the dressing is said to have originated. For nearly 50 years, Mahram’s Thousand Island Dressing has been a staple in the Iranian market, widely recognized and loved. While it is primarily used with salads, in North America, it is also commonly paired with fast food.

Key Features of Thousand Island Dressing

1. Sweet and Pleasant Flavor:
   • A harmonious combination of the sweetness of mayonnaise and ketchup.
2. Creamy and Thick Texture:
   • Ideal for evenly coating salad leaves or using as a dip.
3. Versatile Use:
   • Perfect for a variety of salads, dips, and as a condiment for sandwiches and burgers.
4. Attractive Appearance:
   • Its soft orange hue enhances the visual appeal of meals and salads.

Uses

• Salads:
  • Especially suitable for mixed salads with vegetables and proteins.
• Sandwiches:
  • As a condiment for burgers, hot dogs, and chicken or fish sandwiches.
• Dip:
  • Ideal for French fries or chips.
• Appetizers:
  • Pairs well with fried foods like nuggets.

Nutritional Benefits

• Energy Source:
  • Thanks to the mayonnaise content.
• Rich in Vitamins C and E:
  • Derived from ketchup and vegetable ingredients.

History

The name Thousand Island originates from an archipelago located on the U.S.-Canada border. According to legend, the recipe was created by the wife of a fisherman in the islands and passed on to an actress named May Irwin. She shared it with the manager of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, whose chef later refined the recipe and included it on the menu for salads and desserts.

The origins of Thousand Island dressing trace back to the early 20th century, but by the 1950s, it had become a staple in American and Canadian restaurants. While its exact ingredients can vary, including additions like lemon juice, olive oil, mustard, vinegar, or Tabasco, the core components are typically mayonnaise and ketchup. A unique feature of this dressing, especially for salads and sandwiches, is the inclusion of finely chopped vegetables such as onions, pickles, and parsley, giving it both texture and flavor.