SOMA GET FIT.

by Bonnie Crouse

The best part of the salad is the dressing! and why not make your own? It’s easy and you can avoid all the extra calories and ‘mystery’ ingredients, additives and preservatives in those ‘bottled’ dressings. Adding these 3 ingredients to your pantry can not only please your palate but impress your guests with your culinary expertise and come with a multitude of health benefits. What are they? 1) Mustard 2) Vinegar 3) Oil. Combining these 3 ingredients in 3 easy steps gets you endless combinations and variety. Here are some ideas for flavors to purchase – 3 of each = 9 products total. Mustard varieties should include Dijon, Hot and Sweet and Savory Sweet. Vinegars to include: Balsamic, Seasoned Rice Vinegar and Apple Cider and oil must haves include Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Canola and Flax seed Oil. So here’s the basics: 1 Tbsp. mustard whisked together with 1/4 cup vinegar – then slowly whisk in 1/2 cup oil. Add other ingredients to intensify flavor and add interest – the combinations are endless! (Minced garlic cloves- fresh is best!, cayenne, oregano, cumin, fennil, celery salt, sea salt, seasoned pepper, tamari, soy sauce, lemon, lime or orange juice).

Try one of these recipes on your favorite mixed green, spinach or mixed vegetable salad. Store extra in a jar and save for later.

“Simple Balsamic” Vinaigrette

1 Tbsp Dijon mustard

1/4 C Balsamic vinegar

1/2 C Olive oil

2 minced garlic cloves

Black pepper

Whisk mustard, garlic and black pepper together and slowly drizzle in olive oil – whisking until creamy texture.

“Touch of Asian” Vinaigrette

1 Tbsp Hot and Sweet mustard

1/4 C Seasoned rice vinegar

1/2 C Canola oil

1/4 C fresh lime juice

1 minced garlic clove

2 tsp tamari soy sauce

dash cayenne

2 tsp finely minced fresh ginger

Whisk mustard, vinegar, garlic, lime juice, tamari, cayenne and ginger together- and slowly drizzle in canola oil until creamy. OR blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth and creamy.

“Herb and Flax Seed Oil” Vinaigrette

1 Tbsp sweet and savory mustard

1/4 C Cider vinegar

1/4 C Flax Seed Oil

2 cloves finely minced garlic

1/4 tsp each of cayenne red pepper, ground fennel seed, cumin and ground coriander

Whisk mustard with vinegar, garlic and herbs. Slowly whisk in flax seed oil until creamy.

Share this!