Special Salad Dressing

Prep: 10 min

A versatile, sweet and tangy salad dressing with a hint of mustard and celery seed, perfect for lettuce, cole slaw, or spinach, adding a flavorful burst to any salad.

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Ingredients

  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 1 chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon celery seed
  • 1/3 cup salad vinegar
  • 3 teaspoons mustard
  • 1 cup salad oil

Instructions

  1. Beat thoroughly or mix in blender.
  2. Refrigerate.
  3. Keep on hand to cover lettuce, cole slaw or spinach.

Tips & Substitutions

For a sweeter dressing, consider adding more sugar or using honey as a substitute. If you prefer a tangier flavor, swap out the salad vinegar for apple cider vinegar. Mixing the dressing in a blender ensures a smooth consistency, and this recipe can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences. This dressing also works well with salads featuring fruits or nuts, such as those found in vegan recipes.

Serving Suggestions

This dressing is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of salads, including lettuce, cole slaw, or spinach. It can also be drizzled over grilled vegetables for added flavor. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. Consider pairing it with dishes like a fresh fruit salad or a hearty grain bowl for balance.

Storage & Reheating

Store the salad 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 you notice any off-smells or unusual textures, it's best to discard the dressing to ensure freshness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Special Salad Dressing contains roughly 66 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1839mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).

66 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.6g 3% DV
Total Fat 2g 3% DV
Carbs 12.3g 4% DV
Fiber 3g 11% DV
Sugar 1.1g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1838.7mg 80% DV
Potassium 228mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 29.2mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 37.4mg 42% DV
Calcium 27.5mg 2% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% 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 in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It actually tastes better after sitting for a day, as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to give it a good shake before serving to recombine the ingredients.

Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?

Absolutely! This dressing is entirely plant-based, making it a great option for those following vegan diets. The ingredients used, such as sugar, vinegar, and oil, are all vegan-friendly. You can enjoy this dressing without any concerns about animal products.

What can I substitute for sugar in this recipe?

If you're looking to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute like agave nectar or maple syrup. You can also try using a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. Just remember to adjust the quantity according to the sweetness of the substitute you choose.

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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