Description
This Zesty Japanese Ginger Salad Dressing is a vibrant and flavorful dressing that can be whipped up in just 5 minutes. Combining the sharp zest of fresh ginger with the mellow sweetness of Vidalia onions and a tangy blend of rice vinegar and lemon juice, this dressing brings a refreshing Asian-inspired flair to any salad. Perfect for those who enjoy bold, balanced flavors with a hint of umami and citrus brightness.
Ingredients
Scale
Produce
- 1 medium Sweet Vidalia Onion
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Ginger
- 1/4 cup Celery (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
- 1 clove Garlic
- 1 teaspoon Lemongrass Paste (optional)
Pantry
- 1/2 cup Canola or Vegetable Oil
- 1/4 cup Rice Vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Water
- 2 tablespoons Ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Peel and roughly chop the sweet Vidalia onion and fresh ginger to facilitate blending. If using celery, chop it into smaller pieces. Peel the garlic clove and gather all ingredients for easy access.
- Combine Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, add the chopped Vidalia onion, fresh ginger, celery (if using), garlic, lemongrass paste, ketchup, soy sauce, granulated sugar, lemon juice, rice vinegar, canola or vegetable oil, water, and salt. This combination delivers a balance of sweet, tangy, zesty, and savory flavors.
- Blend the Dressing: Blend on high speed until the ingredients are fully emulsified and the dressing achieves a smooth, pourable consistency. Depending on your blender, this usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes. If the dressing is too thick, add a little more water until desired consistency is reached.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, lemon juice, or sugar according to your preference for balance of acidity and sweetness.
- Serve or Store: Use immediately by drizzling over your favorite salad greens or as a dipping sauce. Alternatively, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week. Shake well before each use as ingredients may settle.
Notes
- Sweet Vidalia onions provide a mild sweetness but yellow onions can be used as a substitute though flavor will be sharper.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free dressing variation.
- Lemongrass paste is optional but adds a unique citrusy aroma; if unavailable, omit without serious flavor loss.
- Adjust water quantity to modify dressing thickness based on your preference.
- Store dressing refrigerated and consume within one week for best freshness.
