When it comes to salads, the dressing can make all the difference. Store-bought dressings may seem convenient, but they often contain high amounts of sodium, sugar, and other unnecessary ingredients. That’s why making your own salad dressings is not only a healthier option but also allows you to customize the flavors to suit your taste. In this article, we will explore 22 delicious and nutritious homemade salad dressing recipes, all using olive oil as a base.
1. Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette with Shallots
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Let’s start with a dressing that has just the right amount of sweetness without being overpowering. This Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette with Shallots pairs perfectly with salads featuring fresh strawberries and spinach or arugula. The combination of tangy balsamic vinegar, sweet maple syrup, and aromatic shallots creates a flavorful dressing that will elevate any salad.
2. Basil Vinaigrette
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If you’re a fan of fresh herbs, this Basil Vinaigrette will surely please your taste buds. Its vibrant green color and aromatic flavor make it a delightful addition to sliced tomatoes, cooked green beans, or even a refreshing grain salad. Get creative and experiment with different herbs like cilantro, rosemary, or dill to create your own unique dressing.
3. Roasted Red Pepper Vinaigrette
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For a taste of Spain, try this Roasted Red Pepper Vinaigrette. The combination of roasted red peppers, sherry vinegar, and smoked paprika gives this dressing a unique and zesty flavor. You can use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience, or take it up a notch by roasting your own. Either way, this dressing will add a Spanish flair to your salads.
4. Sherry Dijon Vinaigrette
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If you’re looking for a quick and easy dressing that packs a punch, this Sherry Dijon Vinaigrette is the way to go. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a tangy and flavorful dressing that pairs well with spicy greens like arugula or any of your favorite dinner salads. This dressing can be stored in the fridge for several days, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays.
5. Herb Vinaigrette
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Herb lovers rejoice! This fresh Herb Vinaigrette is perfect for tossing with mixed greens or as a dressing for cold pasta salads. You can customize it by using your favorite herbs, such as parsley, cilantro, rosemary, basil, or dill. For a vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth. This versatile dressing is sure to add a burst of fresh flavor to your salads.
6. Honey-Mustard Vinaigrette with Lemon
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If you’re a fan of the sweet and tangy combination, this Honey-Mustard Vinaigrette with Lemon is a must-try. With just a few ingredients and a quick shake in a jar, you’ll have a delicious dressing that pairs well with a variety of salads. The honey adds a touch of sweetness, while the mustard and lemon juice provide a zesty kick.
7. Greek Salad Dressing
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Transport yourself to the Mediterranean with this simple yet flavorful Greek Salad Dressing. With just a few pantry staples like olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and dried oregano, you can create a dressing that complements classic Greek salad or any green salad. You can even use it as a marinade for grilled vegetables or chicken to add a burst of Greek-inspired flavor.
8. Parsley-Lemon Vinaigrette
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Parsley lovers, this one’s for you! This Parsley-Lemon Vinaigrette showcases the lovely grassy flavor of parsley. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like cilantro, rosemary, basil, or dill to create your own unique dressing. This healthy and refreshing dressing is perfect for tossing with mixed greens or using as a dressing for pasta salads.
9. Garlic-Dijon Vinaigrette
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If you’re a garlic lover, this garlicky mustard vinaigrette is a must-try. The bold flavors of garlic and Dijon mustard come together to create a versatile dressing that goes well with almost anything. You can adjust the garlic to your taste preference, using fewer cloves if you prefer a milder flavor. This dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for several days.
10. French Dressing
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For a homemade twist on the classic French dressing, try this recipe. Made with simple ingredients like ketchup, vinegar, and spices, this dressing is a delicious alternative to store-bought versions. The best part is that you can adjust the flavors to your liking by adding more or less of the ingredients. With this French dressing, you can enjoy the taste of France right in your own kitchen.
11. Citrus Vinaigrette
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If you’re in the mood for a refreshing and citrusy dressing, this Citrus Vinaigrette is a perfect choice. The combination of lemon juice, orange juice, and a touch of sweetness creates a well-balanced dressing that pairs beautifully with coleslaw or winter greens. Add some dried fruit and nuts to your salad for a burst of flavor and texture.
12. Orange-Balsamic Vinaigrette
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If you’re looking for a dressing with a unique twist, this Orange-Balsamic Vinaigrette is worth a try. The addition of ramps, wild onions that appear in the spring, gives this dressing a delightful onion and garlic flavor. Use it to marinate flank steak or drizzle it over a green salad with shrimp for a burst of tangy goodness.
13. Honey-Tahini Dressing
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For a dressing with a Middle Eastern twist, try this Honey-Tahini Dressing. The combination of extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and tahini creates a creamy and flavorful dressing that pairs well with a variety of salads. The toasty flavor of tahini adds a unique touch to the dressing, making it a favorite among tahini lovers.
14. Olive Orange Vinaigrette
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If you’re a fan of olives, you’ll love this Olive Orange Vinaigrette. The minced olives add a briny flavor to the dressing, making it a delightful addition to your favorite dinner salads and side salads. Try it on a salad with sliced red onion and fresh oranges for a burst of Mediterranean flavors.
15. Cucumber Herb Vinaigrette
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For a dressing with a refreshing and mellow flavor, try this Cucumber Herb Vinaigrette. The pureed cucumber provides a grassy flavor and a luxurious texture to the dressing. You can experiment with other vegetables like tomatoes, arugula, or roasted garlic to create your own unique dressing. Pureeing vegetables into a salad dressing is a great way to add body and sneak in more low-calorie vegetables.
16. Cilantro-Lime Vinaigrette
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If you love the bright flavors of cilantro and lime, this Cilantro-Lime Vinaigrette is a must-try. The tangy dressing gets a touch of natural sweetness from orange juice, which balances the acidity of the lime juice. Use it to dress your favorite salads or drizzle it over grilled or roasted vegetables for a burst of refreshing flavor.
17. Spicy Mediterranean Vinaigrette
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If you enjoy a little heat in your dressing, this Spicy Mediterranean Vinaigrette is the perfect choice. The combination of sweet raisins, honey, and carrot juice balances the heat of crushed red pepper, creating a beautifully colored and flavorful dressing. Drizzle it over your favorite salads for a spicy kick.
18. Classic Dijon Vinaigrette
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Sometimes, you just can’t go wrong with a classic. This Classic Dijon Vinaigrette is the ultimate red-wine vinaigrette that never disappoints. Be sure to use the best olive oil you have to enhance the flavors. Drizzle it over your salads or use it as a marinade for grilled or roasted vegetables for a classic touch.
19. Carrot-Ginger Vinaigrette
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Looking for a dressing that’s both delicious and nutrient-packed? This Carrot-Ginger Vinaigrette is the perfect choice. With the natural sweetness from carrots and the zing of ginger, this dressing provides a healthy dose of vitamin A. Toss it with zesty salad greens or use it as a dressing for stir-fried greens for a burst of flavor.
20. Easy Red-Wine Vinaigrette
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For a versatile and healthy dressing, try this Easy Red-Wine Vinaigrette. Made with red wine vinegar, olive oil, and a few pantry staples, this dressing is perfect for salads, grain salads, or roasted vegetables. You can adjust the flavors to your liking by adding more or less of the ingredients. It’s a simple and delicious way to elevate your dishes.
21. Apple-Balsamic Vinaigrette
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For a unique twist on vinaigrette, try this Apple-Balsamic Vinaigrette. The combination of chopped shallots, Dijon-style mustard, and apple adds a delightful sweetness to the dressing. Drizzle it over your favorite salads to enhance the flavors and add a touch of sweetness.
22. Anchovy Vinaigrette
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For a tangy and savory dressing, try this Anchovy Vinaigrette. It’s an eggless and not-creamy version of the classic Caesar dressing, making it a healthier choice. The combination of lemon juice, anchovy paste, and minced garlic provides a burst of flavor that pairs well with romaine lettuce or any green salad.
Now that you have 22 healthy homemade salad dressing recipes, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen. Experiment with different flavors, adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, and enjoy the delicious and nutritious dressings on your favorite salads. Say goodbye to store-bought dressings and embrace the homemade goodness!
