Lemon Ginger Dressing: Add Some Zing to Your Salad
Simply delicious, this lemon ginger dressing makes your salad tastier while delivering healthy nutrients.
Ginger delivers a zesty flavor, while the lemon-honey combination provides a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity that will please your taste buds.
This dressing does double duty during perimenopause and menopause. Ginger and olive oil both bring real anti-inflammatory benefits, and since inflammation tends to rise during this transition, a simple swap like this one is an easy way to work in your favor at every meal.
Why Make Homemade Salad Dressings?
Homemade salad dressings are great because they are easy to make. Plus, you can control the ingredients!
A healthy diet is all about finding foods that you love and that are good for you. By taking control of what you add to your dressings, it is easy to find the perfect balance for you.
Benefits of the Lemon-Ginger Dressing Ingredients
There are many health benefits to the ingredients in this dressing.
Olive Oil
An excellent source of healthy fats, olive oil has numerous health benefits.
For one thing, olive oil has powerful antioxidants that can help you prevent and fight chronic disease.
It can also help reduce inflammation, protect against heart disease, fight Alzheimer’s disease, and treat inflammation-related diseases (like arthritis, for instance).
What’s more, olive oil is not associated with weight gain. The most shocking study was one among 7,000 people in Spain. In the context of the Mediterranean diet, researchers found that large consumption of olive oil was not associated with higher weight.
One important characteristic of healthy fats, such as olive oil, is that they add flavor to a meal while keeping you full for longer. Just remember to have moderation in all foods you eat, including the healthy ones.
Lemons
Lemons add acidity or “tang” to the dressing while also providing a boost of vitamin C. This nutrient boosts the immune system and guards against the negative effects of free radicals (those elements that cause diseases like cancer).
Getting vitamin C from food has proven to be more effective for health than taking a supplement. Plus, it tastes much better!
Lemon juice can also help to detoxify the body and improve digestion.
Ginger
Add extra zing to your salad using grated fresh ginger root. Ginger will add that kick to your salad and a new level of freshness.
This ingredient is not only delicious but is also a powerhouse for your health. Ginger has been used to aid in the treatment of a number of diseases, including:
- Arthritis and rheumatism
- Digestive health (indigestion, constipation, and ulcers)
- Cardiovascular health
- Vomiting
- Diabetes
- Cancer
Ginger is also well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
It has been used medicinally for centuries and continues to be a popular home remedy today.
Honey
A little bit of sweetness can go a long way, and honey is the perfect way to add it to this dressing. Honey can help you balance the acidity of the lemon ginger dressing.
Not only does honey provide sweetness, but it also has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
Garlic
Everything just tastes better with garlic! When you’re thinking about how much you want to add, be aware that raw garlic will add a strong, sharp taste to your salad dressing.
Eating raw garlic is great for immunity, heart health, blood sugar stability, and brain health.
FAQ
Should I use ginger root or ginger powder?
For a salad dressing, the flavor you get from the actual fresh root is like no other.
What is the best way to store fresh ginger?
Store the ginger root in an airtight glass container.
Do I have to peel the ginger root?
Yes, the easiest way to do this is with either a peeler or a spoon.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Yes, if you only have limes, go ahead and use them. I recommend trying both and choosing the one you prefer—the health benefits are more or less the same.
Do I need to use a whisk?
I recommend using a whisk, as it helps thoroughly mix the ingredients more cohesively.
Another option is to shake it in a Mason jar.
How long does the dressing last?
The dressing should last about seven days if stored properly. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. A Mason jar is your best option, but any sealed container will do.
Remember that storing this salad dressing in the refrigerator will solidify the fat. So, take it out of the refrigerator 15 to 20 minutes before use.
How to Make -Lemon Ginger Dressing for Salads
Lemon Ginger Dressing for Salads
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
- 1 tsp garlic minced
- 1 Tbsp honey
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a mason jar, shake, and serve!
- Store in the mason jar and refrigerate.
Video
Nutrition
“Lemon Ginger Dressing” was written in collaboration with Registered Dietitian Alyssa Maranges.
Looking for other healthy salads and salad dressings? Try these:
Anti-Inflammatory Salad Dressings
The Ultimate Anti-Inflammatory Salad
Dr. Su-Nui Escobar, a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist in Miami, FL, is dedicated to empowering women in perimenopause and menopause to live healthier, more satisfying lives.
With a doctorate in clinical nutrition from the University of North Florida, she has expertise in menopause and weight loss, including the unique challenges faced by those on weight loss medications.
Su-Nui’s passion for her field is evident in her previous role as the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics spokesperson.