When it comes to adding flavor and nutrition to your salads, homemade dressings are the way to go. Not only do they allow you to control the ingredients that go into them, but they’re also a great way to get creative with different combinations of herbs, spices, and oils. In this article, we’ll explore 18 refreshing and healthy salad dressing recipes that are sure to elevate your salad game.
From classic vinaigrettes to creamy yogurts and nut-based dressings, these recipes use a variety of ingredients to add flavor and nutrition to your meals. Whether you’re looking for something tangy and citrusy or rich and herby, we’ve got you covered with our collection of healthy salad dressing recipes.
Lemon Tahini Dressing
Brighten up your salads with this refreshing and creamy lemon tahini dressing! Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s a perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until well combined and emulsified.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None
Avocado Lime Ranch Dressing
A creamy and tangy twist on traditional ranch dressing, this recipe combines the richness of avocados with the brightness of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup buttermilk or regular milk
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon ranch seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocados, yogurt, buttermilk, lime juice, mustard, and ranch seasoning.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and chill.
Balsamic Honey Mustard Dressing
Elevate your salads and sandwiches with this tangy and sweet condiment, perfect for adding a burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
2. Add the apple cider vinegar, if using, and whisk until combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold preparation dressing.
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of honey and mustard to your desired level of sweetness and tanginess.
– Use this dressing on salads, sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables. Enjoy!
Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salads with a tangy twist on the classic Caesar dressing, featuring creamy Greek yogurt as the base.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Garlic Herb Vinaigrette
Add a savory twist to your salads with this flavorful Garlic Herb Vinaigrette recipe. This tangy and aromatic condiment is perfect for dressing mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Add the white wine vinegar, parsley, and thyme. Whisk until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 5 minutes
– Total time: 5 minutes
Mango Ginger Lime Dressing
Mango Ginger Lime Dressing: A Refreshing Twist on Classic Vinaigrettes
Elevate your salads and grilled meats with this sweet and tangy dressing, featuring the vibrant flavors of mango, ginger, and lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mango, ginger, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top. Continue blending until well combined.
3. Add garlic and blend until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and serve.
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of ginger to your desired level of spiciness.
– Use this dressing as a marinade for grilled meats or fish, or as a topping for salads and vegetables.
Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing
This refreshing dressing combines the flavors of apple cider vinegar, sweet honey, and tangy mustard to create a perfect accompaniment for salads, grilled meats, or as a dip. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this tasty condiment in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until it’s smooth and emulsified.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready to use immediately.
Turmeric Coconut Milk Dressing
This creamy dressing combines the warm, earthy flavor of turmeric with the richness of coconut milk and a hint of tanginess from lemon juice. Perfect for salads, vegetables, or as a dip for snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine Greek yogurt, coconut milk, lemon juice, turmeric, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if desired.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking, just blending and chilling.
Pomegranate Molasses Dressing
Pomegranate Molasses Dressing: A Sweet and Tangy Vinaigrette
This sweet and tangy dressing is perfect for topping salads, grilled meats, or vegetables. Made with pomegranate molasses, this unique vinaigrette adds a burst of flavor to any dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate molasses, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Slowly add the olive oil while continuously whisking until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None
Spicy Peanut Lime Dressing
Spicy Peanut Lime Dressing Recipe
Give your salads a boost with this bold and tangy dressing that combines the richness of peanuts, the spiciness of chili flakes, and the brightness of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, yogurt, lime juice, honey, ginger, smoked paprika, and chili flakes.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and more chili flakes if desired.
4. Transfer the dressing to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Shake well before using.
Cooking Time: None!
Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
This Maple Dijon Vinaigrette is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, making it an ideal dressing for salads, vegetables, or as a marinade. The maple syrup adds a hint of warmth and depth to the classic vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking until the vinaigrette is smooth and emulsified.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
This Maple Dijon Vinaigrette will keep for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use it as a finishing touch for your favorite salads, vegetables, or meats.
Roasted Red Pepper Tahini Dressing
Elevate your salads and sandwiches with this creamy, flavorful dressing made with roasted red peppers and tahini.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool.
4. Peel the peppers and place them in a blender or food processor with the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Blend the mixture on high speed for 2-3 minutes, or until smooth and creamy.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Chia Seed Raspberry Dressing
Elevate your salads with this nutritious and delicious chia seed raspberry dressing recipe! This vegan-friendly condiment is packed with omega-3 rich chia seeds, sweet-tart raspberries, and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix chia seeds and water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. Blend raspberries, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and lemon juice in a blender or food processor until smooth.
3. Add the chia seed mixture to the raspberry blend and stir well.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready to use straight away.
Cilantro Lime Cashew Dressing
This refreshing dressing combines the bright flavors of cilantro and lime with the creamy richness of cashews, perfect for topping salads or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup roasted cashews
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cashews, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. Transfer dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (hands-on time)
Sunflower Seed Basil Dressing
Elevate your salads with this creamy and flavorful Sunflower Seed Basil Dressing! This recipe combines the nutty taste of sunflower seeds with the brightness of fresh basil, perfect for dressing up any leafy greens.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine sunflower seeds and basil leaves. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Blend until creamy and well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready when you are!
Orange Sesame Ginger Dressing
Brighten up your salads with this zesty and refreshing Orange Sesame Ginger Dressing. Made with simple ingredients, this flavorful condiment is perfect for topping mixed greens or using as a marinade for grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, rice vinegar, and honey until well combined.
2. Add sesame oil, grated ginger, and salt to the mixture. Whisk until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Herbed Buttermilk Dressing
Herbed Buttermilk Dressing Recipe
=============================
Elevate your salads with this creamy and flavorful herbed buttermilk dressing, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
————
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
————–
1. In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, parsley, chives, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Give the dressing a good stir before serving.
Cooking Time:
————-
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Smoky Paprika Almond Dressing
Elevate your salads with this smoky and nutty dressing, perfect for balancing bold flavors. This recipe combines the earthy warmth of paprika with the crunch of almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup neutral oil (such as canola or grapeseed)
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine oil, vinegar, mustard, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Stir in the sliced almonds.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready when it’s mixed.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your salad game with these 18 refreshing and healthy salad dressing recipes! From classic combinations like Lemon Tahini Dressing and Greek Yogurt Caesar Dressing, to innovative blends like Mango Ginger Lime Dressing and Spicy Peanut Lime Dressing, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for creamy, tangy, sweet, or savory, these dressings are sure to add a burst of flavor to your favorite greens. Try them out and discover new favorites!
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