Catalina Salad Dressing

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A tangy, sweet salad dressing with a rich tomato and vinegar flavor, perfect for elevating salads and suitable for casual or family meals.

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Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup vinegar
  • 1/2 cup catsup
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 cup salad oil

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients except oil with rotary beater.
  2. Gradually beat in oil.
  3. Refrigerate before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a tangier flavor, consider using apple cider vinegar instead of regular vinegar. If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can substitute half of it with honey or a natural sweetener. Ensure the salad oil you use is light in flavor, like canola or grapeseed oil, as it allows the other ingredients to shine. This dressing is versatile and can be used in various American recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Catalina Salad Dressing over fresh greens, or use it as a zesty dip for veggies. It pairs beautifully with Meal In A Bowl Pasta Salad for a complete meal. Consider drizzling it on grilled chicken or fish for added flavor, making it a great addition to any barbecue or picnic.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before serving again, give it a good shake or stir, as the ingredients may separate over time. Avoid freezing, as the texture may be affected once thawed.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Catalina Salad Dressing contains roughly 139 calories, with 4g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2033mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).

139 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.6g 7% DV
Total Fat 1.4g 2% DV
Carbs 34g 12% DV
Fiber 7.7g 28% DV
Sugar 8.8g 18% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2032.6mg 88% DV
Potassium 508.3mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 14.6mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 12.1mg 13% DV
Calcium 127.7mg 10% DV
Iron 2.8mg 16% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-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 make this dressing in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this Catalina Salad Dressing a day or two in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. The flavors will meld nicely, making it even tastier when served.

What can I use instead of catsup?

If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can use tomato puree or a homemade tomato sauce. For a twist, try adding some chili sauce to give it a kick, while still keeping the essence of the original dressing.

Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this Catalina Salad Dressing can easily be made vegan by ensuring all ingredients used, including the catsup and sugar, are plant-based. It's a flavorful option for anyone following vegan recipes.

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).

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