Mexican Salad Dressing

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: Mexican

A tangy and sweet Mexican-inspired salad dressing with a blend of vinegar, sugar, and spices, perfect for salads, vegetables, or as a marinade for vibrant flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 1 tsp. prepared mustard
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 Tbsp. celery seed
  • 1/3 cup vinegar
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 1 cup salad oil

Instructions

  1. Beat all ingredients together with a mixer until well combined.
  2. Store the dressing in a refrigerator.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also substitute apple cider vinegar for the regular vinegar for a milder flavor. Experiment with different oils like avocado oil for a unique twist. This dressing pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Drizzle this vibrant Mexican salad dressing over mixed greens, grilled vegetables, or your favorite taco salad for a refreshing zing. It also complements dishes like Corn Tortillas Tostada or Polenta With Black Beans And Salsa. Consider serving it alongside a platter of fresh veggies or as a dip for tortilla chips for added enjoyment.

Storage & Reheating

Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Before using, give it a good shake or stir, as the ingredients may separate over time. If it thickens, you can add a little water or extra vinegar to reach your desired consistency. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mexican Salad Dressing contains roughly 55 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1938mg per serving (84% of the Daily Value).

55 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.5g 3% DV
Total Fat 1.6g 2% DV
Carbs 8.5g 3% DV
Fiber 1.3g 5% DV
Sugar 5g 10% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1938.3mg 84% DV
Potassium 158mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 216mcg 24% DV
Vitamin C 11.9mg 13% DV
Calcium 65mg 5% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly 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 ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making the dressing a day in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving to ensure even consistency.

Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this dressing is vegan-friendly as it doesn't contain any animal products. If you want to enhance the creaminess, consider adding a vegan mayonnaise as a substitute for any creamy elements.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?

To adjust the sweetness, simply reduce the sugar amount to your taste. You can also replace granulated sugar with agave syrup or honey (if not strictly vegan) for a different sweetness profile. Start by adding half the sugar and taste-testing until you reach your desired level.

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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