Make Your Own Salad Dressings 03.02.2016

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We all know that we should be eating more salad and vegetables, but sometimes those leafy greens lack a certain appeal. Now you have no excuses because we have some delicious and easy salad dressings that you can whip up in a snap. These dressings and vinaigrettes can be made with the ingredients you already have on your shopping list, so no need to splurge for a pricy gourmet salad topping!

Creamy-Dreamy Dressing

This salad dressing is a ranch-lover’s dream, but without all of the fat and calories.

Ingredients:

• Buttermilk, ½ c
• Mayonnaise, ¼ c
• Fresh herbs (chives, parsley, dill, etc.), 2 T
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Whisk all the ingredients together in a large bowl. Use immediately and refrigerate leftovers.

Zingy Garlic Dressing

For some extra tang and punch in your salad, dress it up with something lemony and garlicky!

Ingredients:

• Olive oil, 1/3 c
• Lemon juice, 3 T
• Garlic, 1 clove (minced)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine everything in a small bowl, adding salt and black pepper to your liking.
2. Combine with fish and steamed veggies as well.

Classic Vinaigrette

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Who does not love something light and simple to take that boring salad up a few notches?

Ingredients:

• Lemon juice, ¼ c
• Honey, 1 t
• Shallot, 1 (minced)
• Extra-virgin olive oil, ½ c
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients except the salt, black pepper, and olive oil.
2. Slowly add in the olive oil while whisking.
3. Add your desired amount of salt and black pepper.

The Basic Balsamic Dressing

Ideal for tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, this simply delicious balsamic dressing will delight everyone.

Ingredients:

• Extra-virgin olive oil, ¾ c
• Balsamic vinegar, ¼ c
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, rosemary, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Pour the olive oil and balsamic vinegar in a container with a lid. Snap the lid on and shake the container vigorously to combine the ingredients.
2. Add in the herbs, salt, and black pepper. Cover the container and shake again.

Ideas for Making the Most of Your Homemade Salad Dressings

It’s not just about salad! Get creative in the kitchen and see what else you can do with these delicious vinaigrettes!

• Use Them as Dipping Sauces. Use the creaminess of hummus or an avocado to make a mind-blowingly tasty dip for chips, crackers, and pre-cut veggies (like carrots, celery, broccoli, and grape tomatoes.) Yum!
• Marinate Like a Master. This is especially useful for the balsamic vinaigrette and the lemony dressing. You can take your steak, chicken, and fish to the next level!