Are you tired of relying on store-bought salad dressings that are often packed with unhealthy ingredients and preservatives? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of 20 delicious and nutritious salad dressing recipes that will elevate your salads game without sacrificing flavor. From creamy to tangy, these homemade dressings are made with wholesome ingredients like avocado, Greek yogurt, and fresh herbs.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of healthy salad dressings, sharing recipes that incorporate a variety of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a fan of classic vinaigrettes or innovative twists, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and start dressing up your salads with these tasty and nutritious options!
Lemon Tahini Dressing
Brighten up your salads with this refreshing and creamy lemon tahini dressing! Made with just a few simple ingredients, this tangy condiment is perfect for topping mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or even using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until well combined and emulsified.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
Cooking Time: None!
Avocado Lime Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this vibrant and delicious avocado lime dressing, perfect for warm weather meals or as a dip for veggies. This creamy condiment is packed with healthy fats from avocados and the brightness of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None!
Greek Yogurt Ranch Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this tangy and refreshing Greek yogurt-based ranch dressing! This simple recipe combines the richness of Greek yogurt with the classic flavors of ranch, perfect for topping greens or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Add chopped dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Whisk until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking, just mixing and chilling.
Balsamic Vinaigrette with Honey
A sweet and tangy condiment perfect for elevating salads, sandwiches, and marinades.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Add the honey and whisk until smooth.
3. Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until it’s fully incorporated and emulsified.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 5 minutes
– Total time: 5 minutes
Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing
This refreshing dressing is perfect for adding a zesty kick to your favorite salads, greens, or even as a marinade for grilled meats. With its sweet and tangy flavor profile, this Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in olive oil while continuously whisking until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Garlic Herb Olive Oil Dressing
This recipe makes a flavorful and aromatic dressing perfect for salads, marinades, or as a finishing touch for vegetables or meats. With its rich garlic and herb flavors, it’s sure to elevate your dishes to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine garlic, parsley, and dill.
2. Slowly pour in the olive oil while whisking until well combined.
3. Add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Whisk until smooth.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready to use immediately.
Miso Ginger Dressing
This creamy Miso Ginger Dressing is a perfect combination of savory and sweet, with the umami flavor of miso paste and the warmth of ginger. It’s a great accompaniment to salads, grilled meats, or as a dip for vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
2. Add Greek yogurt and whisk until well combined.
3. Grate the fresh ginger and add it to the mixture. Whisk until smooth.
4. Stir in honey until dissolved.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Maple Dijon Mustard Dressing
Add a touch of sweet and tangy flavor to your salads with this simple Maple Dijon Mustard Dressing. Made with just a few ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a quick and easy salad boost.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and Greek yogurt until smooth.
2. Add maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk until well combined.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Just whisk and chill.
Use this dressing on your favorite greens or as a dip for your favorite vegetables. Enjoy!
Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
Brighten up your salads with this refreshing Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette recipe, perfect for spring and summer meals. This zesty dressing combines the flavors of fresh cilantro, lime juice, and garlic for a tangy and aromatic taste.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until well combined.
5. Add honey and blend until fully incorporated.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Turmeric Lemon Dressing
Brighten up your salads with this vibrant and refreshing Turmeric Lemon Dressing! This zesty condiment combines the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric with the tanginess of lemon, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready to use immediately.
Pomegranate Vinaigrette
Add a burst of flavor to your salads with this sweet and tangy pomegranate vinaigrette. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s perfect for topping mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Slowly pour in 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
Use as desired, or store for future use in your favorite salad recipes!
Roasted Garlic Caesar Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this rich and creamy roasted garlic caesar dressing. Roasting the garlic brings out its natural sweetness, which pairs perfectly with the tangy flavor of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the garlic cloves on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the garlic is tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Peanut Lime Dressing
This refreshing dressing combines the creamy richness of peanuts with the zesty brightness of lime juice, perfect for adding a twist to your favorite salads or using as a marinade.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, ginger, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly add water and continue blending until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: Approximately 1 cup (enough for 4-6 servings)
Orange Sesame Dressing
Elevate your salads with this vibrant and nutty Orange Sesame Dressing, perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine orange juice, tahini, honey, apple cider vinegar, and grated ginger.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in sesame oil through the top.
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 immediately.
Basil Pesto Dressing
Elevate your salads and sandwiches with this fresh and flavorful basil pesto dressing! With its vibrant green color and tangy taste, it’s a perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic. Process until well combined.
2. Add Parmesan cheese and process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Chia Seed Raspberry Dressing
This sweet and tangy dressing is perfect for topping salads or using as a marinade for grilled meats or vegetables. With the added nutrition of chia seeds, this recipe is a great way to boost your meal’s nutritional value.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed raspberry puree
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and Greek yogurt. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the chia seeds absorb the liquid.
2. Add the raspberry puree, apple cider vinegar, and honey to the bowl. Whisk until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready in just a few minutes.
Cucumber Mint Yogurt Dressing
This light and zesty dressing is perfect for warm weather salads, sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables. With the cooling effect of cucumber and mint, it’s sure to become your new go-to condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cucumber, mint leaves, yogurt, lemon juice, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None!
Spicy Sriracha Lime Dressing
Add a zesty kick to your salads with this easy-to-make Spicy Sriracha Lime Dressing. Perfect for those who like a little heat!
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• 2 teaspoons sriracha sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, sriracha sauce, and honey until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed (add more sriracha for extra heat or more honey for sweetness).
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Just whisk, chill, and serve.
Use this spicy and tangy dressing on your favorite salads, sandwiches, or as a dip for veggies. Enjoy!
Sunflower Seed Butter Dressing
Elevate your salads with this creamy and nutritious Sunflower Seed Butter Dressing, made with wholesome ingredients and no added preservatives. This vegan-friendly dressing is perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional mayonnaise-based dressings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup sunflower seed butter
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine sunflower seed butter, apple cider vinegar, water, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and use immediately.
Yield: Approximately 1 cup
Herbed Buttermilk Dressing
Elevate your salads with this refreshing and tangy herbed buttermilk dressing, perfect for topping mixed greens or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, parsley, dill, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. When ready to serve, give the dressing a good stir and use immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (chilling)
Summary
Discover 20 delicious and healthy salad dressing recipes that are packed with nutrients! From classic vinaigrettes to creamy sauces, these dressings are made with wholesome ingredients like avocados, Greek yogurt, and honey. Try the Lemon Tahini Dressing for a tangy and creamy flavor, or the Avocado Lime Dressing for a fresh and zesty taste. With options ranging from spicy Sriracha lime to herby buttermilk, there’s something for everyone in this collection of nutritious salad dressings.