Say “NO!” to Packaged Salad Dressing!
It’s no secret that salad, especially from restaurants, can be as unhealthy as a big greasy pizza. But, did you know that one of the worst things you could add to your salad is a pre-bottled dressing?!
Store-bought salad dressings, even ones that are marketed as “healthy” options can be absolutely FULL of BAD fats, refined sugars, starches, fillers, and even wheat! Bad fats cause cellular congestion. A congested cell can’t detoxify. Plus, that congestion interferes with nutrient absorption from the foods and supplements you might be taking. Even the freshest, organic greens and veggies can turn into junk food in an instant with just one pour!
There are certain brands that are a better choice than many, but the easiest (and most delicious) solution is to make your own! When you make dressings and vinaigrettes from scratch, you control the quality of the ingredients and the nutrition of the end product. Homemade dressings can be used not only in traditional leafy green salads, but they can also be tossed with roasted veggies, used in wraps, or enjoyed in the occasional grain-free pasta salad. They are versatile, yummy and the best choice for your health.
Don’t be intimidated by the term “homemade” or “scratch-made” – it is so simple! The base “no-recipe” recipe for a dressing is an easy ratio of fat and acid. 1 Part Acid to 3 Parts Fat. Here’s some ingredient inspiration for acids, fats, and other flavor additions:
Acids
Apple Cider Vinegar
Red Wine Vinegar
Balsamic Vinegar
Lemon Juice
Lime Juice
Fats
Olive Oil
Coconut Oil
Avocado Oil
Ghee
Avocado Oil Mayo
Fresh Avocado
Flavor Add-Ins
Herbs (Fresh or Dried)
Organic Mustard (Fewest Ingredients Possible)
Chili Flakes
Pickles (Naturally Fermented)
Sea Salt, Mineral Salt, Himalayan Salt
Pepper
My personal favorite no-recipe dressing is to simply keep a variety of INFUSED (not flavored!) balsamic and olive oils and mix and match. No prep needed! Do you have a favorite dressing recipe? Share it with us!