If you're like us, you've probably had the experience of feeling super virtuous after eating a salad only to realize that the dressing was filled with something you're trying not to eat — like sugar, gluten, or empty calories. That's why we've come up with some healthy salad dressing recipes that have nutritious goodies like healthy fats and protein while skipping all the things you don't want in your salad dressing.
Garlic Vinaigrette
This simple vinaigrette flips the ratio of oil to vinegar, so it's not as high-fat as a traditional vinaigrette. But it's still loaded with so much good garlic flavor, we know you're going to love it.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, finely minced
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (choose a gluten-free Dijon such as Grey Poupon)
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a mason jar or a salad dressing decanter.
- Shake well to blend before serving.
- Store, tightly sealed, in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Shake before using.
Related: 3 Delicious Chopped Salad Recipes
Greek Yogurt Ranch Dressing
We love a creamy dressing, and this version uses yummy Greek yogurt for some tasty tang with a little added protein.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients until well combined. You can add more buttermilk to adjust the thickness.
- Store, tightly sealed, in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Spicy Avocado-Orange Dressing
We love to use this dressing in coleslaw, but it's also good on any salad or as a dip for veggies. It's full of healthy fats.
Ingredients
- 1 avocado, peel and pit removed
- Juice and zest of 1 orange
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a blender and blend until well mixed.
- Store in a tightly sealed container with plastic wrap pressed on the surface of the dressing for up to four days.
Make Salads Nutritious Again
Whether you want a creamy ranch, a traditional vinaigrette, or a tangy avocado-based dressing, we know you'll find all sorts of uses for these tasty and healthy salad dressings. Use them as dips, drizzle them over greens, or make a yummy sandwich topping. You'll feel great knowing that your salad dressing is packed with nutrition.
