French dressing is a sweet, tangy, orange-red salad dressing that, despite its name, originated in the United States, not France. It emerged in the early 20th century, likely as an American riff on French vinaigrette, and evolved into its own distinct style made from vegetable oil, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings such as paprika, garlic, onion, and Worcestershire sauce. It's used mainly on green salads but also works as a marinade or a base for dips, and recipes vary in thickness and tang depending on the ratio of oil to vinegar and the type of vinegar used.