My Favorite Salad Dressing
A classic, sweet and tangy salad dressing with a hint of mustard and garlic, perfect for elevating green salads and suitable for casual or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together sugar, prepared mustard, celery seed, salt, garlic, and grated onion in a jar.
- Add salad oil and vinegar to the jar.
- Shake the jar well to combine all ingredients.
- Let stand out of refrigerator overnight.
- Shake vigorously often before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangier flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or swapping out the vinegar for apple cider vinegar. If you prefer a creamier dressing, incorporate a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise. Celery seed can be replaced with dill for a different herbal note. Ensure to finely mince the garlic for a smoother blend, and feel free to adjust the sugar based on your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
This salad dressing pairs beautifully with crisp greens, such as romaine or spinach, and can elevate classic salads or a simple vegetable medley. Try it drizzled over roasted vegetables or as a dip for fresh veggies. For a delightful twist, use it in place of mayonnaise in a potato salad for a refreshing change.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will deepen over time, so it's great to make in advance. If the dressing separates, simply give it a good shake before using. Avoid freezing this dressing, as the oil may separate upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Favorite Salad Dressing contains roughly 33 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1833mg per serving (80% 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 in advance?
Absolutely! Making this dressing a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated and give it a good shake before serving. It's perfect for meal prep, enhancing various salads throughout the week.
Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this salad dressing is entirely vegan-friendly as it doesn't contain any animal products. It can enhance your salads while fitting well into vegan recipes. Just make sure to check the vinegar type for any non-vegan additives.
What can I substitute for sugar in this recipe?
You can use honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetener, keeping in mind that honey is not vegan. If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, adjusting the quantity to 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).