Sesame Dressing

Creating the perfect dressing can sometimes feel like an art form, and that’s exactly how I feel about this Sesame Dressing. It all started at a local café where I had a salad topped with a sesame dressing that completely transformed the dish. I couldn’t stop thinking about the nutty flavor and the perfect balance of tanginess. That experience sparked my journey to recreate this delightful dressing at home. After some experimenting in my kitchen, I finally crafted a recipe that’s so delicious, it has become a staple in my home. Whether drizzled over fresh greens, used as a dipping sauce for veggies, or even as a marinade, this Sesame Dressing brings a unique twist to any meal. I love how versatile it is, making everyday dishes feel special. Not only is it quick to whip up, but it also uses ingredients you likely have on hand, making it the perfect solution for last-minute meal enhancements. Let’s dive into this culinary gem and explore how to make your own!

What to Gather for Sesame Dressing

When making this Sesame Dressing, it’s important to consider the ingredients that come together to create such a harmonious flavor. Each component plays a vital role in ensuring the dressing is both delicious and effective in enhancing your dishes. From the nutty flavor of sesame seeds to the tangy brightness of rice vinegar, these ingredients work together beautifully.

• 1 ½ tablespoons grapeseed oil – A light oil that provides a neutral base, allowing other flavors to shine through.
• 6 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar – Adds a tangy brightness and depth to the dressing, balancing the richness of the oil.
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds – These tiny seeds bring a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• 2 teaspoons light soy sauce – Infuses umami richness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dressing.
• 1 ½ teaspoons granulated sugar – Balances the acidity and enhances the dressing’s flavor.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Provides a deeper sesame flavor; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds a subtle kick and depth.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors, making them pop.

Preparation Steps for Sesame Dressing

Making this Sesame Dressing is as easy as it gets. The instructions are straightforward, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create this flavorful addition to your meals. Here’s how to do it:

1. Gather all your ingredients, ensuring you have everything needed for your Sesame Dressing. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
2. In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, add the grapeseed oil, seasoned rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, granulated sugar, black pepper, and kosher salt. This combination is where the magic happens!
3. Seal the jar tightly. This step is crucial; you want to make sure no ingredients escape their flavorful destiny!
4. Shake the jar vigorously until all the ingredients are well mixed and the sugar has dissolved. You should feel the dressing thicken as the oils and vinegars blend beautifully.
5. If you prefer, you can also whisk the ingredients in a small bowl instead of shaking. Just ensure you whisk well until the sugar is dissolved and the dressing is smooth.
6. Once mixed, taste your dressing. This is the fun part! Adjust any flavors as necessary. Want it sweeter? Add more sugar. Prefer it tangier? A splash more of vinegar will do the trick.
7. Transfer the dressing to a serving container or leave it in the jar for storage. It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, making it a convenient option for your meals.
8. Before serving, give the dressing a quick shake or stir, as some separation is normal. Enjoy your homemade Sesame Dressing on salads, grilled veggies, or as a marinade!

Recipe Tips about Sesame Dressing

Here are some helpful tips to make the most out of your Sesame Dressing experience:

• Storage: Keep your dressing in a sealed container in the fridge. It can last up to a week, so make a larger batch for easy use throughout the week.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this dressing, as it may change in texture when thawed.
• Pairing: This dressing pairs well with a variety of dishes, from fresh salads to grain bowls. It’s also perfect drizzled over roasted vegetables.
• Serving Size: This recipe yields about ½ cup of dressing. You can easily double the recipe if you’re preparing for a larger gathering.
• Variations: Don’t hesitate to add your twist by incorporating ingredients like ginger or chili flakes for an extra kick!
• Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality grapeseed oil and seasoned rice vinegar can significantly enhance the flavor of your dressing.

What to Serve Alongside Sesame Dressing

• Fresh Salads: This dressing is perfect on green salads, adding a crunchy element with the sesame seeds. Try it on mixed greens with shredded carrots and cucumbers.
• Grilled Vegetables: Drizzling it over grilled veggies brings out the flavors beautifully. Consider zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a delightful side dish.
• Dipping Sauce: Use this dressing as a dip for fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. It makes for a delicious and healthy snack.
• Grain Bowls: Elevate your grain bowls with a splash of this Sesame Dressing. It pairs wonderfully with quinoa, brown rice, or farro.
• Marinade: Use it to marinate chicken or tofu before grilling. The flavors soak in beautifully, making your proteins more delicious.
• Seasonal Occasions: This dressing works great for casual gatherings, picnics, or even potlucks. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can complement many dishes.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Sesame Dressing is a flavorful and versatile addition to your cooking repertoire. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and can enhance many dishes from salads to grilled vegetables. I encourage you to give it a try and see how it transforms your meals into something special. You won’t regret adding this delightful dressing to your kitchen creations!

Sesame Dressing

The perfect blend of nutty and tangy flavors, this Sesame Dressing is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their meals. It's quick to prepare, healthy, and incredibly versatile, making it ideal for salads, marinades, and more. Whip up this easy dressing tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Salads

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

• 1 ½ tablespoons grapeseed oil
• 6 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 teaspoons light soy sauce
• 1 ½ teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ? teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

 

• Add the dressing ingredients to a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake until well mixed or whisk in a small bowl until the sugar dissolves.

Notes

• Makes about ½ cup of dressing: This quantity is perfect for a week’s worth of salads and dishes.

Keyword Asian Dressing, Healthy Salad Dressing, homemade dressing, Sesame Dressing

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Meet Elena Vance

I am passionate about the idea that we eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make food look just as good as it tastes. I work closely with the team to style and photograph our dishes, giving you a clear, beautiful guide on what to aim for. I had so much fun preparing this recipe, and I hope you find just as much joy in making it (and eating it!) as we did.