Whether it’s for a side or the main course, this dressing adds a tasty mix of zesty, sweet, and tangy flavor to your salad!
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My salads tend to be substantial—I put everything on them, from proteins to sunflower seeds, pickled beets, and cheese. There’s no shortage of deliciousness. None of this matters, however, if you don’t pick the right salad dressing. In my not-so-humble opinion, salads aren’t salads until I pour a healthy portion of dressing on those green leaves. Our vegan salad dressing is perfect for all diets and is sure to add a burst of flavor to your meal.
This particular vegan salad dressing uses nutritional yeast. Ever heard of it? It’s a popular vegan ingredient that delivers a cheese-like flavor, which is why it’s a favorite for those practicing plant-based diets. But it’s not just about the yeast here. The citrusy lemon juice brightens the earthiness of the nutritional yeast, while Dijon mustard gives the dressing a subtle tanginess balanced with the agave (or maple syrup). This dressing is versatile, too. I like to drizzle the dressing over steamed veggies, and I’ll even marinate my tofu with it. If you love this recipe, check out FFF’s other vegan recipes, like our homemade French vinaigrette or our tahini dressing.
Is Vegan Salad Dressing Healthy?
You bet it is. That’s why I love this recipe. It’s low in fat and calories yet still boasts a rich flavor, partially because of the nutritional yeast. This unique little ingredient is packed with protein and vitamins, particularly B-vitamins, which boost your energy and metabolism. There’s not much you could change to make this dressing any healthier. However, you could substitute the agave or maple syrup with a sugar-free sweetener if you’re watching the ol’ sweet tooth.
Nutritional Yeast: More than meets the eye
Nutritional yeast is such a unique ingredient. I love it for its cheesy flavor, but it’s so much more than that. This stuff is a complete protein. What does that mean? Well, it means that it’s got all 9 essential amino acids. It’s also a rich source of vitamin B12, something meat lovers always say is lacking in a vegan diet. All this to say, try using this amazing ingredient in your meals. Understanding nutritional yeast’s benefits and culinary uses will up your cooking repertoire, especially if you’re seeking delicious plant-based alternatives to cheese and other savory flavors.
INGREDIENTS
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon agave syrup or maple syrup
INSTRUCTIONS
Combine
Mix all ingredients in a jar or bowl.
Shake/Whisk
Shake or whisk until well combined.
Store
Refrigerate and use within a week.
Devour!
FAQs & Tips
This dressing can easily be made ahead of time. All you need to do is pour it into an airtight jar. It should last in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Yes! If you’re not strictly vegan, feel free to try honey instead of agave or maple syrup. Also, try swapping the mustard for wasabi or horseradish if you want a spicier kick.
It’s easy peasy. To make the dressing thicker, decrease the lemon juice slightly or add more nutritional yeast. To make it thinner, add a bit more lemon juice or a splash of water until you reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This vegan dressing is a fantastic addition to a wide array of dishes. Drizzle it over a classic garden salad or a quinoa salad packed with fresh vegetables. Or use the dressing in a wrap filled with mixed greens, chickpeas, and sliced avocados. If you’re not vegan, this dressing also makes a wonderful chicken marinade!
My Everyday Oil-Free Salad Dressing
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon agave syrup or maple syrup
Instructions
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In a jar or small bowl, combine the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, nutritional yeast, and agave or maple syrup.
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Shake the jar well or whisk the ingredients in the bowl until fully combined.
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Transfer the dressing to a jar, if not already in one, and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Nutrition
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