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Zero Calorie Salad Dressing

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  • #44695

Quick and easy vinegar-based dressing thrown onto salad gives plenty of zing without all the sneaky calories and fat that really add up in most traditional dressings.


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  30-60 minutes
Rating: 4/5

2 reviews

ingredients

1/2 cup water
1/2 cup white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 teaspoon paprika
artificial sweetener to taste

directions

Whisk together all the ingredients in a bowl. Place in an airtight container or jar and refrigerate until chilled (about an hour). Shake well or whisk again before serving.

Store the low calorie salad dressing in the refrigerator in a covered container for up to a week.

recipe tips


For a creamier texture, blend the dressing with a small amount of silken tofu or yogurt (note this will add calories).

If you prefer a sweeter dressing, increase the amount of artificial sweetener gradually to taste.

To intensify the flavors, let the dressing sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Experiment with adding garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.

If the dressing is too tart, balance it with a bit more sweetener or a small amount of olive oil (this will add some calories).

Use freshly ground black pepper for a more robust flavor.

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.

If you're reducing sodium intake, you can lower the amount of salt or use a salt substitute.

To use as a marinade, simply apply it to your protein of choice and let it marinate for a few hours before cooking.

Remember to shake or whisk the dressing well before each use as the ingredients may settle or separate when stored.

common recipe questions


Can I use a different type of vinegar for this dressing?

Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar.

What is the purpose of dry mustard in the dressing?

Dry mustard adds a slight spicy tang to the dressing.

Is there a substitute for artificial sweetener?

You can use a small amount of honey or agave syrup, but this will add some calories.

How long can I store this dressing in the refrigerator?

It can be stored in a covered container for up to a week.

Can this dressing be frozen for later use?

We haven't tested freezing it but it should freeze fine. Make sure to allow for expansion in the container when frozen because of the water content.

Is this dressing suitable for all types of salads?

Yes, its versatile flavor pairs well with most salad ingredients.

How do I know if the dressing has gone bad?

If it develops an off smell, taste, or appearance, it should be discarded.

Can I add herbs to this dressing?

Yes, try adding dill, parsley, or chives.

How should I serve this dressing?

Drizzle it over your salad just before serving.

tools needed


Whisk: For combining the water, white vinegar, salt, dry mustard, black pepper, paprika, and artificial sweetener to create this zero-calorie dressing. Make sure to whisk well so all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Bowl: To mix together all the ingredients for the dressing. A bowl with a spout makes it easier to pour the dressing into a container or jar for storage.

Airtight Container or Jar: After whisking the dressing together, transfer it to an airtight container or jar for storage in the refrigerator. This will help keep the dressing fresh and prevent any spills or leaks. Make sure to shake or whisk again before serving.

what goes with it?


Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Brush this vinegar dressing onto grilled shrimp skewers for a refreshing and light flavor. The acidity of the vinegar will help to tenderize the shrimp while adding flavor.

Roasted Vegetables: Toss roasted vegetables in this zero-calorie dressing for a healthy and flavorful side dish.

Grilled Chicken: Tired of boring chicken? Kick things up a notch by marinading in this zero-calorie dressing. The acidity will liven up the chicken without adding any extra fat.

Homemade Coleslaw: Swap out the creamy coleslaw dressing for this light and zesty vinegar dressing. It will provide a refreshing contrast to the crunchy cabbage without all the heavy mayo.

Fresh Herbs: sprinkle some fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill on your salad with the vinegar dressing for extra flavor.


nutrition data

1 calories, 0 grams fat, 0 grams carbohydrates, 0 grams protein per tablespoon. This recipe is low in sodium. This recipe is low in fat.
Show full nutritional data (including Weight Watcher's Points ®, cholesterol, sodium, vitamins, and diabetic exchanges)


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reviews & comments

  1. Juck Pulver REVIEW:

    Fantastic. This one's a keeper. Thanks you to the author.

  2. Chefspicy REVIEW:

    I used this on shredded cabbage for a low calorie cole slaw type salad. Everyone enjoyed it. Thank you.

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