Chef Salad Dressing

Prep: 5 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

A tangy and versatile salad dressing with a hint of sweetness and spice, perfect for fresh chef salads or as a flavorful dip for vegetables.

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Ingredients

  • 1 tsp. sugar
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/8 tsp. pepper
  • 2 tsp. grated onion
  • dash of paprika
  • 1/3 cup oil
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp. ketchup

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a jar.
  2. Shake well to mix.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing. You can substitute the sugar with honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetness. If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. This dressing works well with a variety of salads, including the Stars And Stripes Cake and Pickled Coleslaw for a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

This Chef Salad Dressing is perfect for drizzling over a classic chef salad, but it can also enhance grilled vegetables or serve as a dipping sauce for fresh veggies. Pair it with crunchy salads or use it as a zesty topping for Easy Breakfast Donuts for a unique twist. It complements a variety of American recipes beautifully.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to one week. Before using, give it a good shake to recombine the ingredients, as they may separate over time. Avoid freezing this dressing, as the texture may change when thawed.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Chef Salad Dressing contains roughly 54 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1221mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).

54 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2g 4% DV
Total Fat 2.7g 3% DV
Carbs 9.1g 3% DV
Fiber 4.8g 17% DV
Sugar 2.6g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1220.7mg 53% DV
Potassium 324.8mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 330mcg 37% DV
Vitamin C 1.8mg 2% DV
Calcium 32.7mg 3% DV
Iron 2.9mg 16% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal

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 ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dressing in advance. It tastes even better after the flavors meld together, so making it a day ahead is a great idea. Just keep it in the fridge and shake well before serving.

Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this Chef Salad Dressing is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. However, make sure to check that the ketchup you use is also vegan, as some brands may include non-vegan ingredients.

What can I substitute for vinegar in this recipe?

If you don't have vinegar on hand, you can use lemon juice as a substitute for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, try apple cider vinegar for a sweeter note or balsamic vinegar for a richer taste.

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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