top of page
Image by Mariana Medvedeva
Writer's pictureLisa Smith

3 Quick & Healthy Salad Dressing Recipes

Updated: Jul 11


avocado salad dressing in glass

I'm excited to share some of my favourite vegetable and salad dressing recipes. I love how they can enhance the flavour and nutrition of my meals. By incorporating these nutritionist approved dressings into your meals, you're not only adding a burst of flavour but also reaping the benefits of wholesome ingredients.


They are a delicious and nutritious way to enhance your salads and vegetables, flavour bombs that will leave your taste buds satisfied and your body nourished too.



Creamy Avocado Lime Dressing Recipe


Ingredients:


  • 1 ripe avocado

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • ¼ cup fresh coriander, chopped

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Water (as needed for desired consistency)


Instructions:


  • 1. Scoop out the flesh of the avocado and place it in a blender or food processor.

  • 2. Add lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, coriander, salt, and pepper to the blender.

  • 3. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding water as needed to reach your desired consistency.

  • 4. Transfer the dressing to a jar and refrigerate until ready to use.

  • 5. Serve over your favourite salad or store in the fridge for up to 3 days.


  • This dressing is one of my favourites because it combines the creaminess of avocado with the refreshing tang of lime. Avocado is not only delicious but also packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can support optimal brain function and help with nutrient absorption. The lime adds a burst of vitamin C, which aids in collagen production and boosts your immune system. I love using this dressing as a flavour bomb by drizzling it over a variety of salads and vegetables. It adds a rich and creamy texture while imparting a zesty citrus flavour that elevates the taste of any dish.


Nutritional Benefits:


  • Avocado is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

  • Lime provides a burst of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen production.

  • Olive oil is a good source of healthy fats and contains anti-inflammatory properties.

  • Garlic offers various health benefits, including boosting the immune system and improving cardiovascular health.

  • Coriander adds flavour and provides vitamins A and K, as well as antioxidants.



Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe

Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Dressing in a jar

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon honey

  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions:


  • In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well combined.

  • Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk until the dressing emulsifies.

  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  • Pour the dressing into a jar and refrigerate until ready to use.

  • Shake well before serving over your favourite salad or store in the fridge for up to 1 week.


  • This Honey Mustard Vinaigrette is a versatile dressing that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. Apple cider vinegar, a key ingredient, promotes digestion, balances blood sugar levels, and supports a healthy gut. The addition of honey not only adds natural sweetness but also offers antioxidant properties and potential antibacterial benefits. I love using this dressing as a flavour bomb by tossing it with mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or even as a dip for crudité platters. Its harmonious blend of flavours adds depth to any salad or veggie dish.


Nutritional Benefits:


  • Dijon mustard contains a compound called glucosinolates, which has been associated with anticancer properties and may help reduce inflammation.

  • Apple cider vinegar is believed to aid digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and promote a healthy gut.

  • Honey adds natural sweetness and contains antioxidants and antibacterial properties.

  • Olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and anti-inflammatory compounds.



Balsamic Basil Dressing Recipe

Balsamic Basil olive oil in glass

Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 teaspoon honey

  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, chopped basil leaves, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.

  • Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk until the dressing emulsifies.

  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  • Transfer the dressing to a jar and refrigerate until ready to use.

  • Shake well before serving over your favourite salad or store in the fridge for up to 1 week.


  • This Balsamic Basil Dressing is a classic combination that never fails to impress. Balsamic vinegar, derived from grapes, contains antioxidants that can combat inflammation and improve digestion. Basil, a fragrant herb, not only adds a burst of freshness but also provides vitamins A and K, along with antibacterial properties. This dressing is a flavour bomb that can transform a simple salad or vegetable dish into a culinary delight. I love using it to marinate grilled vegetables, drizzle it over roasted beets, or even as a dipping sauce for BBQ skewers. Its tangy and herbaceous taste profile brings out the natural flavours of your ingredients.


Nutritional Benefits:

  • Balsamic vinegar is low in calories and contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and improve digestion.

  • Basil provides a good source of vitamins A and K, as well as antioxidants and antibacterial properties.

  • Dijon mustard adds tanginess and is rich in minerals like selenium, magnesium, and calcium.

  • Honey offers natural sweetness along with antioxidants and antimicrobial properties.


Shop-bought Dressing Comparison


These homemade salad and vegetable dressings are a healthier alternative to shop-bought dressings that often contain excessive amounts of added sugars, artificial flavours, preservatives and unhealthy oils. By making your own dressing, you can have control over your ingredients and enjoy the full flavour of fresh natural ingredients, without any unnecessary additives.


These dressings are lower in sugar and higher in beneficial nutrients like antioxidants and healthy fats, making it a healthier choice for your salads. All these homemade dressing are packed with nutrient-dense ingredients making them a healthier choice for flavouring your salads and vegetables.




Nutritionist Approved Recipes



Lisa Smith is a BANT registered Nutritional Therapist and health coach specialising in metabolic health and weight loss for midlife women.


Lisa is based in Manchester and offers online nutrition consultations for clients all over the UK. If you would like to learn more about the nutrition programmes and sugar detox challenge please book a free online health review.



DISCLAIMER: The content on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on my website.

Comments


bottom of page