Condiment | Varies widely

Salad Dressing

Not applicable Allergens: Eggs, Milk, Soy, Wheat
salad dressing

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Not applicable
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Oils, Vinegar, Herbs, Spices, Dairy/Egg (for creamy)

The Forktionary Angle

"Beyond salads, a good dressing can double as a marinade for meats, a sauce for roasted vegetables, or even a flavorful dip, adding instant zest to meals."

Definition

A broad category of sauces and liquids used to flavor salads, typically emulsion-based and made from oil, vinegar, and various seasonings.

Sensory Profile

TasteTangy, Salty, Savory, Herbaceous, Creamy, Sweet
TextureViscous, Smooth, Emulsified
AromaAcidic, Herbaceous, Garlic/Onion, Creamy
AcidityMedium to High

Technical Metrics

Base Components

Typically oil, acid (vinegar/citrus), seasoning.

Global Popularity

Over $3 billion market in the US annually.

Types

Vinaigrette, creamy, emulsified.

Nutrition Facts

Per 30ml (2 tbsp)
Calories300 kcal
Total Fat30 g
Saturated Fat4 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol10 mg
Protein1 g
Total Carbohydrate8 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars5 g
Calcium20 mg
Iron0.2 mg
Potassium50 mg

Chef’s Secret

Make your own vinaigrette from scratch for fresher flavor and control over ingredients; add a pinch of mustard for better emulsification.

Substitutions

Best Match

Olive Oil & Vinegar (or Lemon Juice)

3:1 (Oil to Acid)

Simple, fresh, versatile, allows for custom seasoning; good for light salads.

Yogurt-based Dressing

1:1

Creamy, tangy, lower fat alternative, great for fresh vegetable salads.

Hummus (thinned)

1:1 (thinned with water/lemon juice)

Vegan, adds body and nutty flavor, good for grain bowls or hearty salads.

Pesto (thinned)

1:1 (thinned with oil/lemon juice)

Adds distinct herb and garlic flavor, great for pasta salads or robust green salads.

Buying Guide

Read labels for sugar, sodium, and fat content. Refrigerate after opening.

Flavor Pairings

Lettuce spinach cucumbers tomatoes grilled chicken hard-boiled eggs croutons.

Recipes Using Salad Dressing

10 Minute Low Fat Potato Salad image 156
15 Minutes Or Less 15 Minutes Or Less Side Dishes Preparation

10 Minute Low Fat Potato Salad

Craving creamy potato salad without the guilt or the long wait? This 10-minute recipe delivers! Made from scratch with a vibrant, low-fat yogurt-based dressing, tangy mustard, and briny olives, this recipe is a game-changer. Easily doubled for larger gatherings (add 5 minutes to the cook time). Perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or a quick lunch!

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3 Fruit Salad image 135
Low Calorie Low Cholesterol Low Sodium Inexpensive

3 Fruit Salad

This 3-Fruit Salad recipe has been a holiday favorite in our family for three generations! It's incredibly easy, delicious, and perfect for getting kids involved in the kitchen. The faster you chop, the faster you enjoy this refreshing blend of oranges, apples, bananas, and walnuts, tossed in a creamy dressing. Enjoy it during the holidays or any time of year – it's especially delightful on a hot summer day!

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Amish Potato Salad image 139
Course Vegetables American Side Dishes

Amish Potato Salad

Taste the tradition! This authentic Amish potato salad recipe, passed down through generations and sold at a local farmers market, is unbelievably creamy and sweet. Unlike ordinary potato salads, this one boasts a unique sweetness that will leave you craving more. The secret? A slow, absorbing dressing! Follow our instructions carefully, especially step 3, to achieve the perfect balance of creamy sweetness. You control the dressing, adding a little at a time to reach your ideal consistency. Make it today and savor the taste of Amish country!

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Bacon Lettuce Salad image 125
Low Sodium Course Healthy 2 Low Protein

Bacon Lettuce Salad

Craveable Bacon Lettuce Salad! This easy recipe from the MDC kitchen brings together crispy bacon, fresh greens, and a creamy parmesan dressing for a satisfying and delicious salad that's ready in under 40 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together.

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Basic Potato Salad image 143
Picnic Occasion To Go Low Saturated Fat

Basic Potato Salad

This classic potato salad recipe, passed down through generations, is creamy, dreamy, and unbelievably delicious! Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a simple weeknight meal. Get ready for the ultimate comfort food experience.

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Italian Inn Cheese Spread image 150
Dietary 15 Minutes Or Less High In Something Low In Something

Italian Inn Cheese Spread

Recreate the magic of Tulsa's beloved Italian Inn! This legendary cheese spread, a secret recipe served for over 40 years before every entree, is finally revealed. Famous for its creamy texture and irresistible flavor, this Wisconsin cheese-based spread was the star of their renowned antipasto, perfectly paired with warm breadsticks. Get ready to transport your taste buds back to Tulsa's culinary heyday with this easy-to-make recipe – perfect for parties or a cozy night in!

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