Salad Dressings

Spring is here and so are salads!

A good salad resembles a vibrant rainbow – from deep greens to radiant reds, sunny yellows, bold blues and rich purples – a feast for the eyes and to the palate. A well-crafted salad is a burst of nutrition containing complex carbohydrates, protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals. Imagine a bowl filled with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocados, spicy red onions all coming together in a harmonious blend of flavours and textures. The dressing binds it all together, adding layers of flavour and enhancing the overall texture of the salad.

Salad dressings can contribute to the overall nutritional profile of a salad. While store-bought dressings are convenient, they can contain high amounts of fat, salt, and sugar. So, it's important to eat those dressings in moderation.

Making your own dressing is as simple as ABC and you only need ingredients that you already have in your kitchen. It’s a simple way to add flavour without compromising on health. The next time you are thinking what to drizzle on your salad, try these quick recipes and transform your salad into a mega powerhouse that not only fuels your body but also makes your taste buds dance!

Lemon-oregano Vinaigrette

Add this burst of citrusy freshness and elevate your salads. It pairs well with fresh greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes. It is very versatile too and can be used as a marinade for chicken and fish before grilling.

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil

  • Juice of 1 lemon

  • ½ tablespoon of dried oregano

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method

  1. Juice the lemon in a small bowl. Remove any seeds.

  2. Add the olive oil into the bowl and whisk together until combined.

  3. Add dried oregano as well as salt and pepper to taste. Whisk again thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.

  4. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more lemon juice, oregano, salt, or black pepper according to your preference.

  5. Let the dressing rest for about 15 mins to allow the flavours to infuse.

  6. This dressing can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. Remember to shake well before use.


Creamy Yoghurt Dressing

Enjoy this refreshing and nutritious creamy and herby yoghurt dressing, adding a burst of

citrusy freshness and herbal notes to your salads. It is a dressing that is sure to become a favourite in your kitchen!

Ingredients

  • ½ cup plain Greek yoghurt

  • Juice of 1 lemon

  • 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley/ ½ tablespoon of dried parsley

  • 1 tablespoon of honey

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method

  1. Finely chop the parsley (if using fresh parsley).

  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk the Greek yoghurt, lemon juice and balsamic vinegar (if using) until well combined.

  3. Stir in the honey to add a touch of sweetness to the dressing.

  4. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

  5. Gently fold in the finely chopped fresh parsley or dried parsley, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the dressing.

  6. Give the dressing a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more lemon juice, honey, salt, or pepper to suit your taste preferences.

  7. Refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to blend before serving.

Tip:

You can also use it as a dip for fresh vegetables, grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.