Special Occasion Salad Dressing

Prep: 5 min Cuisine: American

A tangy and slightly sweet salad dressing with a hint of spice, perfect for green salads and special occasions, adding depth and flavor to your meal.

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Ingredients

  • 5 Tbsp. sugar
  • 1/2 tsp. prepared mustard
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 c. wine vinegar
  • Tabasco to taste
  • 1/2 c. salad oil
  • 1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 3/4 tsp. grated onion
  • 1/2 tsp. celery seed

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together in a blender.
  2. Serve with your favorite green salad ingredients.
  3. Top with croutons.

Tips & Substitutions

For a sweeter dressing, consider adding more sugar or a splash of honey. If you're out of wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can serve as excellent substitutes. Adjust the Tabasco according to your spice preference, and try using fresh garlic for a more robust flavor. This dressing works well with any salad, including a refreshing Green Bean-Corn Salad.

Serving Suggestions

This dressing is delightful drizzled over mixed greens, topped with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and croutons for added crunch. For a heartier option, pair it with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. It complements dishes like Savory Baked Game Hen beautifully, creating a balanced meal that's perfect for special occasions.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good shake before using, as ingredients may separate. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change. This dressing is perfect for drizzling over salads or using as a marinade.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Special Occasion Salad Dressing contains roughly 150 calories, with 6g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

150 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.6g 11% DV
Total Fat 2.8g 4% DV
Carbs 27.4g 10% DV
Fiber 3.1g 11% DV
Sugar 1.6g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 339.3mg 15% DV
Potassium 399.1mg 8% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3.8mcg
Vitamin C 1.8mg 2% DV
Calcium 32.2mg 2% DV
Iron 2mg 11% DV
Diet fit 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?

Yes, this dressing can be prepared a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will meld beautifully, enhancing the taste. Shake well before serving to recombine the ingredients.

Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this dressing is vegan-friendly as it doesn't contain any animal products. The ingredients provide a rich flavor without the need for dairy or eggs, making it a great option for those following vegan recipes.

What can I add to the salad to complement this dressing?

Consider adding nuts, seeds, or cheese to your salad for added texture and flavor. Sliced avocados and fruits like strawberries or apples can also enhance the dish. This dressing pairs well with a variety of ingredients, making it versatile for any salad.

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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