Salad dressings can make or break a bowl of greens. When made fresh at home, they not only taste better but are also free from preservatives and additives. Below are six simple, healthy salad dressing recipes that are packed with flavor and can be whipped up in minutes.
1. Green Goddess Dressing
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, add olive oil, lemon juice, Greek yogurt, and minced garlic.
2. Blend until creamy and smooth.
3. Taste and adjust salt or acidity if needed.
4. Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Perfect for: green salads, grain bowls, or as a veggie dip.
2. Lemon Tahini Dressing
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon tahini
Instructions:
1. Whisk or blend the olive oil, lemon juice, and tahini until smooth.
2. Add water gradually (1 teaspoon at a time) to thin if necessary.
3. Adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt.
Pairs well with: roasted veggies, kale salads, or buddha bowls.
3. Balsamic Vinaigrette
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
Instructions:
1. Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and garlic in a jar or bowl.
2. Shake or whisk vigorously until emulsified.
3. Optional: add a touch of honey for a slightly sweet note.
A classic go-to for: mixed greens, tomatoes, or pasta salads.
4. Avocado Lime Dressing
Ingredients:
• ½ ripe avocado
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• A handful of fresh cilantro
• 1 clove garlic
Instructions:
1. Add avocado, lime juice, cilantro, and garlic to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add a tablespoon of water or olive oil to thin, if needed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Great for: taco salads, grilled corn salad, or as a sandwich spread.
READ MORE: Healthy Pasta Sauces: Delicious, Nutritious, and Vegan-Friendly >>>
5. Honey Mustard Dressing
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Mix olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl.
2. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
3. Taste and adjust for sweetness or acidity.
Delicious with: spinach salads, chicken salads, or roasted potatoes.
6. Yogurt Dill Dressing
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• Fresh dill, chopped (to taste)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
2. Stir in freshly chopped dill.
3. Adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
Best served with: cucumber salad, potato salad, or as a dipping sauce.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Homemade Dressings
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon/lime juice, garlic, and herbs make all the difference in taste.
• Blending vs. whisking: Creamy dressings with yogurt or avocado blend better in a food processor or blender for smoothness.
• Balance your flavors: Dressings typically need a balance of fat (oil or avocado), acid (citrus or vinegar), and seasoning.
• Storage: Store dressings in airtight containers or jars in the fridge for up to 3–5 days. Shake before use as natural separation may occur.
• Customization: Adjust ingredients to taste—add chili flakes for heat, honey for sweetness, or more garlic for punch.
• Thin it out: If a dressing is too thick, gradually add water or more oil to reach your desired consistency.
Try out these versatile dressings to elevate any salad or dish with bold, healthy flavors—made right in your kitchen
