Lo-Cal Salad Dressing
A light, tangy salad dressing with a blend of vinegar, garlic, and tarragon, perfect for adding flavor to salads and suitable for those watching their calorie intake.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine olive oil, water, vinegar, crushed garlic, salt, and dried tarragon in a jar.
- Shake well to blend all ingredients.
- Let stand for several hours to develop flavors.
- Shake again before using. For extra tang, add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Lo-Cal Salad Dressing, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried tarragon for a brighter taste. If you don't have wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar is a great substitute. For an added kick, try incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes. This dressing is versatile and can also be used as a marinade for grilled vegetables, making it a great addition to Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Drizzle this dressing over your favorite salads or use it to dress a refreshing Orange Carrot Salad for a vibrant meal. It also pairs beautifully with Vegetable-Stuffed Tomatoes, adding a zesty touch. For a light lunch, use it to dress a grain bowl with quinoa or lentils, making it a perfect option for those following vegan recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop over time, so it's best to let it sit for a few hours before using. Shake well before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture of the oil.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lo-Cal Salad Dressing contains roughly 78 calories, with 4g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 497mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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 a day or two in advance. Allowing it to sit in the refrigerator for several hours helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Just remember to give it a good shake before serving.
Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely! This Lo-Cal Salad Dressing is completely vegan as it contains no animal products. It's a great option for anyone looking for a healthy and plant-based dressing alternative.
How can I adjust the taste if I find it too tangy?
If the dressing is too tangy for your liking, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the acidity. You can also increase the olive oil slightly to mellow the flavors without compromising the overall healthiness of the dressing.
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).