My Mother'S "Best" Salad Dressing
A tangy, sweet, and savory salad dressing with a hint of garlic and parsley, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors on fresh greens or vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except cornstarch and water together in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and cook until the mixture becomes clear.
- Add the cornstarch to water and stir to make a slurry.
- Gradually add the cornstarch slurry to the hot mixture, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Allow to cool before serving or storing.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use high-quality oil and fresh ingredients. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, adjust the sugar to taste. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for red wine vinegar for a different tang. To reduce calories, try using a lighter oil or half the amount of sugar. Mixing in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can enhance the dressing's freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dressing over a fresh garden salad or drizzle it on grilled vegetables for added flavor. It also pairs wonderfully with a side of grilled chicken or fish. For a unique twist, try it as a dipping sauce for veggie platters. This dressing complements dishes like Tuno Casserole beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store the salad dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The dressing may thicken upon chilling; simply stir in a little water to reach your desired consistency. Always shake or stir well before using to ensure the ingredients are well combined again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Mother'S "Best" Salad Dressing contains roughly 1063 calories, with 7g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1002mg per serving (44% 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?
Absolutely! This dressing can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld and intensify, making it even tastier when served. Just remember to give it a good shake or stir before using.
Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this dressing is suitable for vegan recipes as it contains no animal products. The oil and vinegar base, combined with the other ingredients, makes it a great choice for those following a plant-based diet. Enjoy it on salads or as a marinade for vegetables.
How can I adjust the thickness of the dressing?
To adjust the thickness, you can modify the amount of cornstarch used in the slurry. If the dressing is too thick, add a bit more water until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, for a thicker dressing, increase the cornstarch slightly. Always add gradually and stir continuously.
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).