The Secret Blend: 3 Homemade Dressings That Will Change Your Relationship with Vegetables!

In the world of healthy cooking, we often focus on fresh vegetables and whole grains but overlook the “secret ingredient” that transforms any ordinary dish into an amazing flavor experience: salad dressing.

Despite the abundance of store-bought dressings, homemade dressings remain tastier and richer in flavor, showing true respect for the effort you put into cooking.

Here are 3 quick and delicious homemade dressings you can keep in the fridge, ready to elevate your meals anytime with fresh, rich flavors.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar & Shallot Dressing

This dressing is a balanced mix of apple cider vinegar and shallots, perfect for leafy salads, grain bowls, and even the classic French Niçoise salad, which includes tuna and vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallots

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Instructions:

• Mix shallots with vinegar, salt, and pepper; let it sit for 5 minutes to soften the shallots.

• Add mustard and olive oil; whisk until well combined.

• Store in a glass jar in the fridge for up to one week.

2. Creamy Miso Lemon Dressing

A refreshing tangy flavor perfect for summer, this dressing combines white miso, lemon juice, and yogurt for a creamy texture and bright taste. Great on grilled veggies, tomato salad, or avocado.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons white miso paste

• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoons yogurt (Greek or regular)

• 1 teaspoon honey

• 1/3 cup olive oil

• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)

• Pinch of black pepper

Instructions:

• Whisk miso, lemon juice, mustard, yogurt, and honey until smooth.

• Slowly add olive oil while whisking, or blend with an immersion blender.

• Stir in poppy seeds if desired, then refrigerate.

3. Creamy Ginger Sesame Dressing

An Asian-inspired, balanced, spicy, tangy, and rich dressing that blends sesame tahini with fresh ginger and a touch of chili. Ideal for cabbage salads, cold noodles, or as a sauce for chicken or tofu.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons tahini or sesame paste

• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• 1 teaspoon soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or white vinegar

• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

• 1/3 cup water (to thin)

• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

• Pinch of chili flakes (optional)

Instructions:

• Combine all ingredients in a bowl or jar until smooth and creamy.

• Add water gradually to reach desired consistency.

• Store in the fridge for up to one week.

Storage Tips and Best Practices:

• Store dressings in tightly sealed glass jars.

• If oil separates from vinegar, place the jar in warm water and shake well.

• To revive flavors, add a pinch of salt, fresh lemon juice, citrus zest, or a touch of honey to balance the taste.