Cardinal French Dressing
A tangy, sweet, and flavorful French dressing with hints of mustard and ginger, perfect for salads and suitable for those who enjoy bold, homemade condiments.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, white vinegar, Heinz catsup, minced onion, dry mustard, Mazola oil, ginger, paprika, and salt in a container.
- Shake vigorously until well mixed before each use.
- Store in a jar or bottle; makes about 1 pint.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangier dressing, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor. If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend the dressing until smooth. You can also substitute the white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile. For a vegan version, ensure the catsup is free from animal products.
Serving Suggestions
This Cardinal French Dressing is perfect for drizzling over fresh salads, especially greens mixed with nuts and fruits. It complements dishes like the Ambrosia Fruit Cocktail Salad beautifully. Use it as a marinade for grilled vegetables or as a dipping sauce for appetizers. Serve it alongside sandwiches for a zesty kick.
Storage & Reheating
Store the dressing in a sealed jar or bottle in the refrigerator. It can last up to two weeks, but the flavors will meld and improve over time. Shake well before each use to recombine the ingredients, as they may separate during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cardinal French Dressing contains roughly 107 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 8g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of oil for this dressing?
Yes, you can substitute Mazola oil with olive oil or avocado oil for a different flavor and health benefits. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly, with olive oil adding a richer flavor to the dressing.
Is this dressing gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this Cardinal French Dressing are gluten-free, making it suitable for those following a gluten-free diet. Just ensure that the catsup you use is certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
How can I make this dressing spicier?
To add some heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing. You can also experiment with adding finely chopped jalapeños for a fresh, spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the sugar.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).